Almost As Good As the Exceptional Original

Rating: Null/10 (9 January 2001)

The much-anticipated sequel to "Star Wars" dazzled audiences in 1980 and is almost as good as its outstanding predecessor. Darth Vader (voiced by James Earl Jones) and his evil forces do just as the title indicates: they strike back. An amazing secret that few could have figured out is revealed in the film's finale and leaves the window open for the third installment in the vastly popular series. Mark Hamill, Carrie Fisher, Harrison Ford, and Alec Guiness all shine again. Billy Dee Williams also joins the cast and only adds to the terrific screenplay. Irvin Kershner does a fine job with his direction. A very good sequel to say the least. 4.5 out of 5 stars.