Best of three?

Rating: 7/10 (6 June 2008)

Episode V in the "Star Wars" trilogy will always be remembered as the film that introduced a serious plot line to proceedings. After the rebels' success in Episode IV, the Empire chased them throughout the galaxy, finally confronting them on the ice world of Hoth. The group escapes and Luke goes to train as a Jedi under Yoda. Lando Calrissian betrays them to Lord Vader, and the evil master of the dark side has a startling revelation for Luke. Captain Solo is sold to Boba Fett who takes him to Jabba the Hutt. All of this leaves us hanging for Episode VI. Though thick on storyline, and revered by critics, it was probably the least entertaining for the kiddies with its meandering middle and sparse action. The AT-AT Imperial Walkers and the Millennium Falcon's flight through the asteroid field are the definite highlights.
Again the technical wizardry of Lucas team shines, with the digitally improved sound and visual effects being a must. Stop-motion animation, used during the 'Walker' scenes, is particularly impressive. John Wiliams has again provided a masterful score.
In truth all "The Empire Strikes Back" really does is provide the link between the first and final battles involving the alliance and the Empire, but it does so admirably, and it must be said that the second of the three "Star Wars" films is probably the best.
Saturday, April 27, 1997 - Hoyts Cinema Centre