In 1980, "The Empire Strikes Back" was released as the second installment in the trilogy of "Star Wars" films, three films that would become a major piece of America's diverse modern mythological mosaic.
Since then, with the perceptivity and perspective of hindsight, "The Empire Strikes Back" has been called the pivotal film of the series. The greatest chapter of one of the greatest fables our generation knows.
With the theater re-release of the trilogy, we can experience and judge the films all over again. In addition, creator George Lucas has added a few surprises to his series.
As with anything that grips the public consciousness the way "Star Wars" does (if there is anything), debates rage about the changes and additions, with two camps each naming one or the other as the authoritative edition.
"The Empire Strikes Back: Special Edition" still stands as the pinnacle of Lucas' accomplishments. Lucas knew it too, as the changes to this film are minimal, especially compared to some of the substantial changes made to "Star Wars."
Part of Lucas' satisfaction with "The Empire Strikes Back" must have been his budget. "Star Wars" was filmed on little more than a shoestring; the artists and effects staff were forced to cut corners wherever possible. With the resounding success of "Star Wars," Lucas was free to spend a much larger sum of money to bring his newest vision to life.
To the beloved cast of Luke (Mark Hamill), Han (Harrison Ford), and Leia (Carrie Fisher), Lucas adds Yoda (voice of Frank Oz) and Lando Calrissian (Billy Dee Williams). The tale is a dark one, ending in betrayal and failure for the heroes. Luke is wounded, Han and Leia are separated, and Han's fate is literally suspended in this middle chapter cliffhanger.
The mystery of Luke's paternity is also revealed, and new secrets are suggested, increasing the mythical resonance of the series as a whole. But as dark and brooding as "The Empire Strikes Back" may be, it is the action that keeps the plot moving.
The battle of Hoth is simply amazing, and Lucas has wisely left it largely alone. The only changes Lucas felt to be necessary were the digital erasure of some matte lines. Although this effect is all but invisible, the battle, one of the greatest of the trilogy, looks and sounds better than ever.
Luke's capture by the icy Wampa has also been spiced up with tantalizing, if somewhat violent new footage, including the creature happily feasting on a carcass before he turns his attention to Luke.
However, it is the Cloud City that has undergone the most change. Digital computer effects have created a living metropolis from the once cold and spartan Bespin. The escape from the mining colony is now accompanied by majestic computer-generated cityscapes that are truly a sight to behold.
"The Empire Strikes Back," whether with added effects or in its original cinematic form, still provides two of the most entertaining hours you could hope to spend while staring at a screen.
A film of such scope belongs on the big screen. The sounds, the score, and the story cry out majesty, and it is in the immersive grandeur of a darkened theater that the true genius of Lucas' magnum opus is evident.
