Story Overview

Set three years after the Battle of Yavin, Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back plunges the galaxy into deeper darkness as the ruthless Darth Vader (David Prowse) leads Imperial forces in a relentless hunt for the leaders of the Rebel Alliance—Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill), Han Solo (Harrison Ford), and Princess Leia Organa (Carrie Fisher).

The Empire locates the Rebels’ hidden base on the icy planet of Hoth and launches a devastating assault. Although the Rebels manage a desperate evacuation, the cost is high. Han and Leia flee aboard the Millennium Falcon, only to be pursued across the galaxy by Imperial forces determined to crush the last hope of resistance.

Meanwhile, Luke Skywalker journeys to the remote swamp world of Dagobah, where he seeks guidance from the reclusive Jedi Master Yoda (Frank Oz). Under Yoda’s demanding training, Luke begins to understand the true nature of the Force and the heavy burden that comes with being a Jedi—knowledge that will soon be tested in a confrontation that reshapes his destiny.

Darker, more introspective, and emotionally charged, Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back expands the mythos introduced in Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope and is widely regarded as one of the most influential and critically acclaimed chapters in the entire saga.