There are so many films that come out every week let alone every year, aren’t there? We can get so caught up with trying to keep up with the latest awards contenders, box office hits, and culturally relevant pieces that we just don’t have enough time to turn back the clock and check out films from the past. But it is so important to expand our horizons and experience the art that has set the stage for today’s cinema. You might need to find the time, so it is important to make wise choices with what you spend that time watching. Whether we head back 10 years, 50 years, or even 100 years, there is great cinema throughout the years. But let’s rewind the clock and here are some reasons why you should check out… Star Wars: Episode VI – The Return of the Jedi (1983)
| Directed by: Richard Marquand Starring: Mark Hamill, Harrison Ford, Carrie Fisher, Billy Dee Williams, James Earl Jones, Ian McDiarmid |
The Skywalkers
What a wonderful web of family and trauma this trilogy finale offered up? This was the film that uncovered Leia’s true parentage. We see Luke embrace and confront the truth about his paternal relationship with Darth Vader. We see Vader (the most powerful antagonist in all of Star Wars) go on a grand journey of self-rediscovery. This is a beautiful emotional battle of the Force as Luke tries to sway Vader back to the light and the Emperor tries to sway Luke to the dark. There are so many emotional beats, and it is hard to argue with Vader taking down the Emperor in a SILENT act of heroism and love for his son. This is truly a Skywalker Saga, and it comes together so perfectly in The Return of the Jedi.
The Music
It is John Williams. It is Star Wars. This is one of the most iconic scores in all music. So many of these scenes are elevated thanks to the depth and heart that Williams can inject into his compositions. This is a true masterpiece of music with the final moments soaring into the Star Wars theme for one last time. There are so many moments that would not feel the same without the strokes of Williams’ works lining them and fleshing them out.
The Action
There is plenty of action to enjoy and cherish in The Return of the Jedi. You start with the great first act on Tatooine at Jabba’s Palace. We get the battle with Rancor and the battle above the Sarlacc Pit. The speeder chase on the moon of Endor is exhilarating. The lightsaber battle between Vader and Luke has so many emotions and layers. The Battle of Endor delivers with the Ewoks’ attack on the surface. But the space altercation in the space above is top-tier Star Wars action. So much fun and engaging action to sink your teeth into!
Ewoks
You can call them merchandise plants or distractingly for kids. BUT there are so many fun and heartwarming moments with the Ewoks in this film. You also cannot tell me you did not feel so much when that pair of Ewoks is blasted, and one never gets up! Bring on the tears. They are a fun addition to the greater Star Wars galaxy, and they are adorable.
Ian McDiarmid
This is one of the greatest performances in all of Star Wars. Period. McDiarmid brings so much menace and zeal to the most powerful and evil of the Sith. His voice is iconic and distinct. His cackle is unnerving and the purest evil. This actor has been killing it in all the Star Wars properties since 1983. That is longevity and staying power. Palpatine is so iconic thanks to the incredible work of McDiarmid.
