Star Wars: Return of the Jedi (Episode VI)

About Star Wars: Return of the Jedi (Episode VI)

Star Wars: Return of the Jedi (Episode VI) is a thrilling climax to the original Star Wars trilogy. Released in 1983, the epic space opera picks up with Luke Skywalker's journey to becoming a Jedi and the Rebel Alliance's concerted effort to destroy the second Death Star. The movie concludes with an emotional showdown between Emperor Palpatine, Darth Vader, and Luke Skywalker.

Making / Production

The film was directed by Richard Marquand and written by George Lucas and Lawrence Kasdan. It was produced by Lucasfilm and distributed by 20th Century Fox. Filming locations were widespread and included the United States, United Kingdom and Tunisia. The film is also known for its groundbreaking visual effects.

Actors

• Mark Hamill as Luke Skywalker: Successfully portraying the character's progression from a farm boy to a proficient Jedi.
• Harrison Ford as Han Solo: Delivering yet another dynamic performance as the charming and rouge smuggler.
• Carrie Fisher as Princess Leia: Stepping out from the previous films' damsel-in-distress image to a true leader of the Rebellion.
• Billy Dee Williams as Lando Calrissian: With charisma and charm, he portrays a redeemed character who aids the Rebellion.
• James Earl Jones (voice) as Darth Vader: Using his deep and menacing voice, James brings the dark Sith Lord to life.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• Yoda was initially not going to appear in the film, but was later added to confirm to the audience that Darth Vader was indeed Luke’s father.
• The carnivorous plant-like beast, Rancor, was originally to be played by an actor in a suit. The idea was later scrapped.
• The film was originally titled 'Revenge of the Jedi' but was changed as George Lucas reasoned that it would be out of character for a Jedi to seek revenge.

Awards

The movie won the Special Achievement Academy Award for Visual Effects, and received further nominations for Best Art Direction, Best Sound, Best Original Score and Best Sound Editing.

Quotes

• "I am a Jedi, like my father before me." – Luke Skywalker
• "Many of the truths we cling to depend greatly on our own point of view." – Obi-Wan Kenobi
• "Your overconfidence is your weakness." – Luke Skywalker to Emperor Palpatine

Music, Soundtrack

• Scored by John Williams, the film's iconic music set the tone for the epic saga.
• The 'Ewok Celebration', also known as 'Yub Nub', was featured in the initial release of the film.
• The film's score earned a nomination for Best Original Score at the Academy Awards.