Seven years old, walking into a dark RKO Fordham theater, holding my father's hand as he tried to find us a seat. On the screen was a bloodied Luke Skywalker, hung upside down as he reached out for his lightsaber. We came in late and my brother decided to sit by himself or something. Didn't matter, I was focused on the screen. This was my first Star Wars film and my little heart was hooked from then.
People know I'm a Star Wars geek. I have some action figures (including two preview Mace Windu figures, one which is still in its package), played various video games based on the series, seen/own all the VHS/DVDs (well most), and though I don't follow it at times, will give Yoda's advice of doing and not trying. If I had a List, besides football, being able to tolerate Star Wars is up there. Not saying you have to be a fan(atic), but at least be willing to indulge my Star Wars geekdom (don't worry, you do not have to do cosplay, especially since I don't).
Empire Strikes Back was dark, somber, and a perfect set up for the third movie, Return of the Jedi. Eventually it would be the template for all second movies in trilogies to come afterwards (Two Towers, anyone?). Heroes took a massive blow in this one, one was frozen and another was missing a hand. It had a mixed of humor, seriousness, and "DID YOU SEE THAT?" moments. I was just as terrified of the AT-ATs when I first saw them marching on Hoth as the rebels did. One of the best chase scene in a film, in my option, was the asteroid field (John Williams' score of that scene is an all time favorite).
I could go on and on about Star Wars, but let me keep what little dignity I have left. Thank you, George Lucas, for sparking the imagination of millions which still lives on today.
May the force be with you...always.
Original Trailer:
If ESB was made in 1950, it would probably look like this:
Cliff Notes:
Luke vs Darth Vader:
Ending with my favorite Star Wars related mention in a movie:
