Repeated viewing of Star Wars: Episode VI Return of the Jedi so that I could choose my favorite scenes to see in 3-D was so much fun. I LOVE Luke Skywalker even more each time I see it! Aesthetically speaking, Jedi Knight Luke Skywalker is just perfect. This final episode of the Star Wars Saga packages everything together and delivers it! As always, the visuals are awe inspiring and the music is perfect. Wedge is back and loaded for bear, and the Empire is finally defeated.
I have been going through a rough time in my life recently and the triumph of good over evil by the Rebel Alliance is just what I needed. Luke resists the temptation of power by the Dark Side and is a shining beacon leading Anakin back to the Light. If Darth Vader can slough off the shroud of shame he wears for all that he has done in the name of the Dark Side, forgive himself and return to the Light Side of the Force; then maybe I can forgive myself for the little things that I have done in my life that keep me from my ultimate destiny.
Don’t let shame and past mistakes cause you to wallow in failure – It’s a Trap!
- A Jedi’s Fury – Luke Skywalker is a Jedi on fire as he masterfully defeats Darth Vader, but our humble knight soon emerges from his fury and is willing to make the ultimate sacrifice rather than kill his own father. With a single battle cry and an epic Star Wars silhouette, I am entranced. It’s not good emperor. It’s great! When Luke says, “I am a Jedi like my father before me.” I get all verklempt.
- Father vs. Son – The light saber battle has already begun when we join this scene and we learn with Darth Vader that Luke has learned some new tricks.
- Luke and The Emperor – I know there is no great action in this scene, but watching Luke handcuffed with Vader beside him, a lamb, calmly walking to the slaughter. Again, a visually beautiful scene that is full of dread for me.
- Speeder Bike Chase – This scene is so much fun and the dizzying speed is thrilling. I especially love that little twinkle in Luke’s eye when the stormtrooper turns back to finish him off. You can just hear him thinking, “It’s the last mistake you’ll ever make.”
- Fully Operational – It’s a Trap! I knew it! The action in this space battle is awesome. I love watching Lando chase down those three TIE fighters. They mayhem truly begins when they realize that the Death Star is operational.
- Force Lightning – The emperor thinks that Luke is going to pay the price for his lack of vision, but it is only Luke who sees that redemption is possible for Anakin. The few moments that Darth Vader thinks before acting are agony to me…I can feel Luke’s pain. Every time I just know he is going to fall into the crevice.
- Into the Death Star – Going into the belly of the beast and riding this obstacle course in 3-D will be an incredible ride. Mr. Lucas, after you revamp Star Tours, this should be the next ride!
- Death Star Destroyed – I’m a Star Wars fan, so of course, I want to see a big explosion! Well Jedi does not disappoint. I’m surprised Lando Calrissian doesn’t lose is mustache as he just escapes the flames.
- The Sarlacc Pit – “I used to live here.” “You’re gonna die here, you know.” Luke is full-out Jedi taking on Jabba’s henchmen and Leia shows Jabba what happens to anyone who messes with her man!
- “Oh no! The Rancor!” We all know what’s coming – Oola, the green Twi’lek girl, didn’t stand a chance. But Luke keeps his cool and shows Jabba that he’s gotten more than he bargained for in Luke.
May the Force Be With You, Always!
