The Empire Strikes Back: Greatest Sequel Ever

The 1980s are considered one of the best decades for movies, and for good reason. Dominated by film favorites like Die Hard, Lethal Weapon, E.T., the Indiana Jones films and others, the '80s probably has more fan favorites than any other decade. A classic 80's movie is bound to be a good one.

Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back

Yet the greatest film of the 1980s arrived in its very first year. In 1980, Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back launched in theaters across the United States, raking in $209 million. The second entry into the Star Wars series (in order of release), The Empire Strikes Back etched itself into the public conscious almost immediately and proved that a sequel could be light-years ahead of its predescessor.

In fact, it's hard to find anything Empire didn't beat Star Wars at. Fans the world over regard it as the greatest Star Wars film and Empire currently ranks at #10 all-time on IMDB.com's list of best movies.

Empire Plot Synopsis

The Empire Strikes Back opens with Darth Vader seeking out the Rebel who destroyed the Death Star, Luke Skywalker. Tracking the Rebels do the snow planet Hoth, a grandiose land assault is launched on the Rebel Base. After a spectacular battle sequence, the heroes are split into two groups: Luke Skywalker and R2-D2 go to Dagobah to find a Jedi Master named Yoda while Han Solo, Princess Leia, Chewbacca and C-3PO flee the Imperial fleet for most of the film.

While on the run Han and Leia fall in love (despite their best efforts to the contrary) and are trapped on the mining city of Bespin by Darth Vader and the Empire. Young Skywalker finds Yoda and begins training in the ways of the Force. Upon learning that his friends are in trouble, Luke abandons his training to try to help them. Yoda warns him against this and says that Luke will do more damage if he does not finish his training. Promising to return someday, Luke races to Bespin, only to fall into a trap himself and find himself face to face with the evil Lord Vader, who reveals a startling secret.

The Greatest Sequel Ever Made

Focusing on character development moreso than the first Star Wars film, The Empire Strikes Back hooks the viewer and makes them really care for the characters. The battle between Luke Skywalker and Darth Vader is truly one of the most effective sequences in film history, only to be topped by their final duel in Return of the Jedi three years later.

The special effects are fantastic right from the opening battle in the snow, continuing through a space chase in an asteroid field to the beautiful sky city of Bespin. The Empire Strikes Back presents a rich tapestry of images that stay ingrained in the viewers mind long after the film has ended. The Special Edition version of Empire is also the only film in the Original Trilogy that doesn't suffer from the effects added in 1997.

Written by Leigh Brackett, The Empire Strikes Back is the most solid script of the entire series. Although it still has corny dialogue characteristic of the Star Wars films, the story remains dark and series, adding tremendous depth and interest to the series. The acting is also very good. Harrison Ford and Carrie Fisher have a natural chemistry that makes them one of the more memorable movie couples. Darth Vader is especially evil here and Yoda became a pop legend with his appearance. Billy Dee Williams also became a fan favorite with his portrayal of the charming, if shady, Lando Calrissian, old "friend" of Han Solo.

The Atmosphere of The Empire Strikes Back

All of the details are tied together with moody lighting ranging from dark, dank caves to a brightly lit Cloud City and ice planet Hoth.

The Empire Strikes Back also boasts what is arguably the greatest film score of all time. A masterpiece by film score titan John Williams, Empire is his best work to date. Empire stands as a work of musical genius: "Han Solo and the Princess" is a lush romantic theme, "Yoda's Theme" is beautiful and somehow wise, and of course no one can forget the iconic "Imperial March" which made its debut in The Empire Strikes Back. The finale is a crowning achievement in the world of film music.

Conclusion

The only real flaw in this film is the pacing. The beginning leading up to the Hoth battle is a little slow and the middle parts can sometimes drag a bit, but little else can be faulted.

Containing romance, adventure, betrayal, memorable characters, awe-inspiring music and cinematography, The Empire Strikes Back is a must-see for any movie fan.

Buy The Empire Strikes Back today:

Barnes and Noble
Amazon.com
FYE
Best Buy
Walmart