The Empire Strikes Back
The epic saga continues as Luke Skywalker, in hopes of defeating the evil Galactic Empire, learns the ways of the Jedi from aging master Yoda. But Darth Vader is more determined than ever to capture Luke. Meanwhile, rebel leader Princess Leia, cocky Han Solo, Chewbacca, and droids C-3PO and R2-D2 are thrown into various stages of capture, betrayal and despair.
Critics Sentiment
Vader reveals he is Luke's father
Millennium Falcon hides in asteroid field from Imperial fleet
The film builds from the solid asteroid chase sequence to the emotionally devastating father revelation, creating the saga's most powerful dramatic moment.
Critics consistently praised Empire Strikes Back as superior to the original, highlighting its darker tone, deeper character development, and philosophical depth. The film builds through spectacular action sequences like the Hoth battle to intimate character moments with Yoda, culminating in one of cinema's greatest revelations. Reviewers noted how the film matured the franchise while maintaining its sense of wonder and adventure.
Full cast
Showing 20 of 79
Mark Hamill
Luke Skywalker
Harrison Ford
Han Solo
Carrie Fisher
Princess Leia
Billy Dee Williams
Lando Calrissian
Anthony Daniels
C-3PO
David Prowse
Darth Vader
Peter Mayhew
Chewbacca
Kenny Baker
R2-D2
Frank Oz
Yoda (Voice)
Alec Guinness
Obi-Wan Kenobi
Jeremy Bulloch
Boba Fett
Jason Wingreen
Boba Fett (voice - uncredited)
John Hollis
Lando's Aide
Jack Purvis
Chief Ugnaught
Des Webb
Snow Creature
Kathryn Mullen
Performing Assistant for Yoda
Marjorie Eaton
Emperor (uncredited)
Clive Revill
Emperor (voice)
Kenneth Colley
Admiral Piett
Julian Glover
General Veers
Crew
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