This is not a film. This is a fantasy.

Rating: 10/10 (21 January 2003)

In 1977 when Star Wars came out it was the biggest thing to happen to movies in a very long time. Star Wars was a science fiction film that focused on escapism rather than scientific lore that usually weighs down other sci-fi films. Instead of explaining everything through the actors dialogue Lucas just showed us with sophisticated direction, set designs, and special effects. Still if it was not for Empires Strikes Back the Star Wars saga would not have achieved the level of pop culture status that it now enjoys, for if it was Star Wars that introduced us to the worlds and the main characters of the original trilogy it was Empire Strikes back that gave us the entire theme of Star Wars saga. It clearly showed us the struggles of the good and power of the evil. The empire is just not a government body to be despised but to be feared as well. The Empire is a collected evil who iss everywhere. The story also reveals much more in terms of who Luke actually is, of his gifts, and how he could be a candidate for either good or evil. As well it hints at the connection between Luke and Leia and of course reveals the Luke and Vader connection.
Plus this film through color and music and the interweaving of character development and action sequences swings us a way from the space opera frivolity of the first film and sends us through a mystical fantasy both dark and beautiful, dangerous and brilliant.
Last of all the writing in the film elevated the saga in a way that no other Star Wars film has been able to do. Leigh Bracket and Lawrence Kasdan worked wonders in their screenplay. Instead of soaking some serious and more romantic moments with dialogue that is heavy worded we get moments that are mixed with clever one liners and situations that forces Han and Leia to fall in love. I wish I could say the same about Attack of the Clones love story, which was fine but failed to capture that sort of chemistry.
In short this films is a masterpiece and one that has not been matched. It has not been matched in memorable characters, plot revelations, atmosphere, or music. Although few films have come very close they all still fall short of this one fantasy.