<Li> Natalie Portman as Queen Padmé Amidala , the 14 - year - old Queen of Naboo , who hopes to protect her planet from a blockade invasion made by the Trade Federation . Over 200 actresses auditioned for the role . The Production notes stated ; `` The role required a young woman who could be believable as the ruler of that planet , but at the same time be vulnerable and open '' . Portman was chosen especially for her performances in Léon : The Professional ( 1994 ) and Beautiful Girls ( 1996 ) , which impressed Lucas . He stated , `` I was looking for someone who was young , strong , along the lines of Leia ( and ) Natalie embodied all those traits and more '' . Portman was unfamiliar with Star Wars before being cast , but was enthusiastic about being cast as a character she expected to become a role model . Portman said , `` It was wonderful playing a young queen with so much power . I think it will be good for young women to see a strong woman of action who is also smart and a leader . '' </Li>
<Li> Natalie Portman as Queen Padmé Amidala , the 14 - year - old Queen of Naboo , who hopes to protect her planet from a blockade invasion made by the Trade Federation . Over 200 actresses auditioned for the role . The Production notes stated ; `` The role required a young woman who could be believable as the ruler of that planet , but at the same time be vulnerable and open '' . Portman was chosen especially for her performances in Léon : The Professional ( 1994 ) and Beautiful Girls ( 1996 ) , which impressed Lucas . He stated , `` I was looking for someone who was young , strong , along the lines of Leia ( and ) Natalie embodied all those traits and more '' . Portman was unfamiliar with Star Wars before being cast , but was enthusiastic about being cast as a character she expected to become a role model . Portman said , `` It was wonderful playing a young queen with so much power . I think it will be good for young women to see a strong woman of action who is also smart and a leader . '' </Li>
who plays the queen in episode 1 star wars
who plays the queen in episode 1 star wars
Natalie Portman
Natalie Portman