Star Wars: Episode V - The Empire Strikes Back
Star Wars: Episode V - The Empire Strikes Back
The epic saga continues as Luke Skywalker, in hopes of defeating the evil Galactic Empire, learns the ways of the Jedi from aging master Yoda. But Darth Vader is more determined than ever to capture Luke. Meanwhile, rebel leader Princess Leia, cocky Han Solo, Chewbacca, and droids C-3PO and R2-D2 are thrown into various stages of capture, betrayal and despair.
TheDesertLad reviewedJune 17, 2025
The "Sequel Curse" - A movie that receives critical acclaim is followed by a sequel that is universally agreed to be sub par.
Star Wars: Episode V - The Empire Strikes Back does NOT suffer the sequel curse and actually EXCEEDS elements of the first film. While "Star Wars" is the definitive version of the heroes journey, The Empire Strikes Back actually takes everything interesting about the first story and easily expands and is the reason why Star Wars TODAY is as big as it is 45 years after its release. This film will stand the test of time and unlike the other two films in the trilogy doesn't suffer under Lucas's meddling too much - meaning - you can watch the theatrical release, a fan restoration, or even the special edition and still experience a 5/5. A must watch film.