One of the greatest movies of all time!

Rating: 10/10 (1 March 2011)

A Masterpiece. One of the greatest achievements in cinema history. This is the best episode in the epic Star Wars saga.
I recall as a child to being bored with this one. The scene with Luke is fighting Vader involving a dream sequence was the first glimpse I ever saw of any Star Wars film. Looking back makes me realize that this particular movie is special and personal to my heart. I grew up with all 6 movies. Episodes 4,5, and 6 on VHS and Episodes 1, 2 and 3 in theaters.
Let me explain why The Empire Strikes Back is the pot of gold:
The movie takes place in between A New Hope and Return of the Jedi.
The story is quite dark and leaves you hanging for the final showdown.
Yoda makes his first appearance on film and what a great one it is.
Han Solo reveals another side of him and woos Princess Leia. Who'd a thought that would happen?
Lando Calrissian, another great new character to the Star Wars story.
Boba Fett, a cult favorite. Even though he appears on screen for 5 minutes, let's face it, he's a baddass no matter what!
The #1 reason this film makes the top of the list is when the whole Star Wars tale goes awry. In which Darth Vader reveals he is Luke Skywalker's father.
There will never be a roller coaster ride like this. It focuses on the continuing story, and still gives us some visually astounding action sequences all within 2 hours. The directing of the late Irvin Kershner is spot on along with the writing of George Lucas. I recommend this film to any film student, sci fi fan or movie buff whether you are a Star Wars fan or not.