It’s officially been 40 years since “The Empire Strikes Back” hit theaters.
The second “Star Wars” film in the original trilogy arrived on the big screen May 21, 1980, and it’s widely viewed as the greatest film in the saga. (REVIEW: ‘Westworld’ Season 3 Ends With The Possible Deaths Of Multiple Characters)
Why is “Empire” viewed as the greatest “Star Wars” film ever made? The answer is super simple. It hit fans with what might have been the best twist in the history of cinema.
The moment Vader revealed himself as Luke’s father will forever be remembered as a nuclear bomb in the movie game.
After “A New Hope,” fans knew they were in for a wild ride. Fans didn’t have any idea that was coming. I’ve heard stories about reactions from people in the theaters at the time.
Nobody could believe the revelation. It was apparently talked about by folks for weeks after seeing the film.
On top of that, we had the opening war sequence, Han being frozen and delivering a GOAT line and so much more. From top to bottom, it’s an elite film.
![Han Solo Star Wars Gif GIF - Find & Share on GIPHY](https://media.giphy.com/media/umuDPcy78IbkY/giphy.gif)
Here we are 40 years later, and the movie has done more than withstand the test of time. It’s continued to be incredible for four decades!
I wasn’t even alive when it came out and I love “Empire.” What a journey it’s been through this saga, and what an honor for every involved.
Let us know your favorite “Star Wars” movie in the comments.