The Empire Strikes Back (1980)
The legendary Star Wars sequel that redefined blockbuster filmmaking with darker drama, iconic twists, and unforgettable characters.
The Empire Strikes Back - Movie Information
- Original Title: The Empire Strikes Back
- Release Year: 1980
- Directed by: Irvin Kershner
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Adventure, Action, Sci-Fi
- Age Rating (US): PG
- Runtime: 2h 4m
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- Release Date (Theatrical): May 20, 1980 (Poland - 12), June 20, 1980 (United States - PG), May 21, 1980 (Canada - PG), May 21, 1980 (United Kingdom - U), December 10, 1980 (Germany - 12), August 20, 1980 (France - TP), December 5, 1980 (New Zealand - PG), May 21, 1980 (Australia - PG), May 21, 1980 (Brazil - L), December 25, 1980 (Mexico - A), September 19, 1980 (Italy - T), October 2, 1980 (Spain - A), April 26, 1997 (South Korea - 12)
- Alternative Titles: Star Wars: Episódio V - O Império Contra-Ataca (BR), L'Imperi Contraataca (AD), 스타 워즈 에피소드 5: 제국의 염습 (KR), Èмперия наносит ответный удар (RU), The Empire Strikes Back: StarWars II (US), Star Wars: Episodi V - Imperiumin vastaisku (FI), Imperiet slår igen (DK), Guerre stellari - L'Impero colpisce ancora (IT)
- Production Companies: Lucasfilm Ltd.
- Production Countries: United States of America
The Empire Strikes Back - Plot
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.
The Empire Strikes Back - Trailer
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The Empire Strikes Back - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Irvin Kershner
Main Cast
- Mark Hamill
- Harrison Ford
- Carrie Fisher
- Billy Dee Williams
- Anthony Daniels
- David Prowse
- Peter Mayhew
- Kenny Baker
- Frank Oz
- Alec Guinness
Writers
- Leigh Brackett
- Lawrence Kasdan
- George Lucas
Producers
- Gary Kurtz
- Howard G. Kazanjian
The Empire Strikes Back - FAQs
What is Darth Vader's famous reveal in The Empire Strikes Back?
In one of cinema's most iconic moments, Darth Vader reveals to Luke Skywalker that he is his father during their lightsaber duel on Cloud City. This twist, delivered by James Earl Jones, permanently redefined the Star Wars saga and remains one of the greatest plot revelations in film history.
Where can I stream The Empire Strikes Back?
The Empire Strikes Back is available to stream on Disney Plus as part of a subscription. It can also be rented or purchased on Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies, YouTube, and Fandango At Home. YouTube TV also offers it as part of a flatrate subscription.
Is The Empire Strikes Back considered the best Star Wars film?
The Empire Strikes Back is widely regarded as the finest entry in the Star Wars franchise and one of the greatest sequels ever made. Critics and audiences consistently praise its darker tone, emotional depth, and narrative ambition. It holds a 94% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and an 8.7 on IMDb.
Who directed The Empire Strikes Back?
The Empire Strikes Back was directed by Irvin Kershner, working from a screenplay by Leigh Brackett and Lawrence Kasdan, based on a story by George Lucas. Kershner's character-driven approach and willingness to embrace dramatic darkness gave the film a depth that distinguished it from its predecessor.
Who are the main actors in The Empire Strikes Back?
The principal cast includes Mark Hamill as Luke Skywalker, Harrison Ford as Han Solo, Carrie Fisher as Princess Leia, Billy Dee Williams as Lando Calrissian, Anthony Daniels as C-3PO, David Prowse as Darth Vader, Peter Mayhew as Chewbacca, Kenny Baker as R2-D2, Frank Oz as Yoda, and Alec Guinness as Obi-Wan Kenobi.
What is the age rating for The Empire Strikes Back?
The Empire Strikes Back is rated PG in the United States, meaning parental guidance is suggested. While the film features intense action sequences, dramatic confrontations, and darker emotional themes than its predecessor, it remains broadly suitable for family audiences with younger children watching alongside parents.
Did The Empire Strikes Back win any awards?
The Empire Strikes Back won the Academy Award for Best Sound and received a Special Achievement Award for Visual Effects at the 1981 Oscars. It was also nominated for Best Art Direction and Best Original Score. The film's groundbreaking special effects, produced by Industrial Light & Magic, set new industry standards.
How long is The Empire Strikes Back?
The Empire Strikes Back has a runtime of 2 hours and 4 minutes (124 minutes). Despite its length, the film is consistently praised for its pacing, moving fluidly between the ice planet Hoth, the swamps of Dagobah, and the cloud city of Bespin without ever losing dramatic momentum.
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