The Ultimate Role Model of what a Sequel SHOULD BE!

Rating: Null/10 (5 October 2001)

The adventures of my idol Luke Skywalker continue in this installment in the classic Star Wars film trilogy. The tone of the series takes a darker turn as George Lucas's sequel masterfully delves into the physical, emotional, mental and spiritual developments of the lead characters and the ominous challenges they encounter.
In my opinion, "Empire" really set a standard for future sequels in other popular Hollywood franchises because of the fact that it was so different in style and mood from its predecessor. And beyond that, the movie reflects something else. In almost every popular legend, the hero of humanity must undergo a shadowy trial as a prerequisite to fulfilling his (or her) destiny of liberating a civilization, or in this case, a galaxy. From his survival on the ice planet Hoth, to his intensified Jedi training on Dagobah, to the shocking revelation of his father's identity at Cloud City towards the film's conclusion, the story of Luke manifests how much psychological obstacles he must confront before reaching full maturity as a Jedi Knight.
Another classic story element brilliantly woven into the film is the epic romance. As with the mythical love affair between Sir Lancelot and Queen Guinevere of the King Arthur tales, Han Solo and Princess Leia embark on a journey to which they eventually discover a priceless treasure, their undying love for each other and the pain they must bear upon separation.
The introduction of the alien Jedi Master Yoda is a magnificent addition to the Star Wars saga. Joining Obi-Wan Kenobi as Luke's mentor, he is a much-beloved character with notable reason. Yoda to me represents a cultural embodiment of wisdom, patience and understanding. Thousands of years from now, when Star Wars to many people is the equivalent of what a classic literature piece like "20,000 Leagues Under the Sea" is to us, Yoda shall remain a symbol and inspiration for knowledge, peace and guidance.

I found the acting and dramatic sequences here to be much more poignant, and I suppose that is to be expected when characters are to grow as a film myth like Star Wars progresses. Through such a cinematic formula, one can get really involved in the star actors of "Empire."
The same feeling of awe and fantasy felt in the first "Star Wars" can be found in "Empire," everything is technically dazzling. From Luke riding astride his Tauntaun on Hoth to the gleaming towers of Cloud City on Bespin, you'll truly feel like you've been transported to another time in another place, or better still: "A Long Time Ago In A Galaxy Far Far Away"