It's embarrassing that I never finished my Star Wars original trilogy movie reviews. But with Episode IX on the horizon, it's time to amend that.
The Empire Strikes Back was released in 1980. Set shortly after A New Hope, the Rebels are on the run after destroying the dreaded Death Star. They flee to Hoth, an ice planet, and set up shop. But before long, the Empire hunts them down, forcing them to flee once more. As they run, Luke is sent on a mission to learn about the Force from Obi-Wan's first teacher: a little green guy named Yoda. Meanwhile, Han, Leia and company are on a malfunctioning Millenium Falcon, desperately trying to evade Star Destroyers. They end up visiting an old friend, Lando, on Cloud City. But surprises await . . . the Empire just might win this round.
Its predecessor had shattered expectations three years prior, so ESB had a lot to live up to. Widely considered the best of the Star Wars lot, it did so and more. As before, the effects and worlds were excellently done and a marvel for the time. The story was good and unexpected- nobody likes to see the bad guys win, but it happens. And the film featured a shocking revelation about Luke's father, adding to the mystery of the universe. The only ding I'd give the film is a weird scene on Dagobah, where Luke is training as a Jedi, that doesn't make sense and slows things down. That aside, this is another winner.
Rating: A
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