Darth Vader is an antagonist.
Darth Vader , also known by his birth name Anakin Skywalker , is a fictional character in the Star Wars franchise . Vader appears in the original film trilogy as a pivotal antagonist whose actions drive the plot , while his past as Anakin Skywalker and the story of his corruption are central to the narrative of the prequel trilogy . Darth Vader has become one of the most iconic villains in popular culture , and has been listed among the greatest villains and fictional characters ever . The American Film Institute listed him as the third greatest movie villain in cinema history on 100 Years ... 100 Heroes and Villains , behind Hannibal Lecter and Norman Bates .