Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back

“It is a dark time for the Rebellion...” Luke (Mark Hamill), Leia (Carrie Fisher), and Han(Harrison Ford) struggle to fight the Empire, but the Empire has upped its game. Vader (DavidProwse/James Earl Jones) is in charge now, and he misuses the Force to track down the Rebel fighters and stamp out the resistance. Unthinkably, he may even be trying to recruit Luke to join his nefarious plans. Meanwhile, Luke meets a wizened recluse (Frank Oz) who may be able to give him more insight to the mysterious Force.

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ClearPlay cuts maybe a word of dialogue, and some instances of gruesomeness, including more severed arms and the disemboweling of a tauntaun. The Empire Strikes Back is darker in tone than the original Star Wars, and for that may be more off-putting to younger viewers. Should, however, be fine for teens and older.

To enjoy the movie, do I have to be in an Empire state of mind?...

Though a bit more bleak than its predecessor, Empire Strikes Back contains wonderful effects, rousing action, the same great John Williams score, and some new engaging characters. Many viewers think Empire is the best in the series. Agree you may not, but like it you will.

Marty Nabhan, ClearPlay Kessel Runner

Rated PG; 124 mins; Directed by Irvin Kershner