The best of the nine core Star Wars movies made its debut in American theaters. It was the most anticipated film in my life that’s for sure. Empire opened on a Wednesday night too which was a big deal in 1980; new movies still kept to the Friday thing then.
My brother and me had to wait two more days to go. Our parents wouldn’t let us go on a school night even though we had seen other stuff for weaker reasons. I think the crowds were probably crazier and bigger. With all the pre-sales and assigned seating today, I have a hard time imagining what it was like going to the movies on a wing and a prayer while waiting in line, hoping to get a ticket let alone an adequate seat.
What took place in Empire wasn’t a complete surprise because I had already read the novelization that I picked up from our week in DC. Good thing my reading comprehension at 11 wasn’t too great; I had originally thought the Walkers were bionic horses, Boba Fett’s ship made no sense and Yoda was hard to visualize. Thankfully trailers and sneak previews fixed those visuals. Despite knowing the twist ending, I didn’t spoil it for Brian or my friends who came along, unlike Homer Simpson!
I do remember being disappointed when it ended thinking, “What the hell man‽ The Rebels are supposed to win this round too! Instead Han is gone, Luke is short a hand, Leia is in love with the wrong hero and there was no space battle!” As I grew into adulthood, my appreciation of Empire‘s storytelling became more apparent. It’s why this movie continues to hold up as it moves into middle age.