“I have a bad feeling about this.” —Princess Leia
Today’s quick review: Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back. After the Empire destroys the Rebel base on Hoth, Han Solo (Harrison Ford) and Princess Leia (Carrie Fisher) escape in the Millennium Falcon, pursued by Darth Vader (James Earl Jones). Meanwhile, Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill) goes to Dagobah to find Yoda (Frank Oz), a reclusive Jedi Master, and continue his training so he can fight Vader, the man who killed his father.
Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back is a classic sci-fi adventure and the second movie in the original Star Wars trilogy. The Empire Strikes Back picks up several years after the events of A New Hope, as the Rebellion continues its war against the Empire under the leadership of Luke, Leia, and Han. The film retains the strengths of its predecessor while expanding the Star Wars universe and pushing the story in successful new directions.
The Empire Strikes Back does an excellent job of building on the foundation laid by A New Hope. Where A New Hope was a straightforward heroic yarn with an external threat, The Empire Strikes Back introduces a touch of personal drama that works wonders for the characters. Han and Leia are forced to deal with the fact that they care for one another, while Luke must master his emotions to have any hope of using the Force to avenge his father.
These personal arcs form the emotional core of the film, but there’s plenty of sci-fi adventure to be had. New planets, new vehicles, memorable battles, iconic new characters, and skillful special effects make The Empire Strikes Back every bit as impressive as its predecessor. The only real mark against it is that its story feels like the middle entry in a trilogy rather than a self-contained sequel, but even then the film ends on very strong note.
Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back is an excellent movie that earns its place near the top of the sci-fi genre through a combination of solid storytelling, memorable characters, and a rich, adventurous setting. The movie accomplishes the rare feat of matching its predecessor’s craftsmanship while establishing an identity of its own. This makes it a must-see for science fiction fans and a worthwhile gamble even for critics of the genre.
8.7 out of 10 on IMDB. I give it an 8.5 for an engaging story backed by excellent craftsmanship.