Return of the Jedi: 40th Anniversary Release

RETURN OF THE JEDI returns to the big screen for it's 40th anniversary . The third film of the original Lucasfilm Star Wars Trilogy . Return of the Jedi first released in (1983) We join the Rebels, where we left them in the last chapter to embark on a perilous mission to save Han Solo from the clutches of galactic gangster Jabba the Hutt. Later, they journey to Endor with the goal of neutralizing the second Death Star. While all this unfolds, Luke grapples with the challenge of redeeming his father, Darth Vader, without falling prey to the machinations of the evil Emperor. All roads lead to this third and final film in the Skywalker Trilogy. Where this third film has nothing really do is but deliver a satisfying climax, and and tie up the questions served up in the previous two movies. No pressure! The Death Star mission re-tread maybe lack the novelty fear of the first Star wars (1977) movie, lending itself more as a framing device ,but does serve as focal point for a spectacular space battle worthy of a successor to the original movie. There are some great set pieces outside of the main narrative. A couple of side missions to rescue ,First, in a reversal of roles for ,where princess Leia (Carrie Fisher) comes to rescue her prince .Han Solo (Harrison Ford again, who always charming and sardonic voice to proceedings) The Jabba Palace scenes, against play host to a galaxy full of beings, that would seed many side stories and series in their own right. The rebel capture of a Moon Empire Base Endor,and the recruitment of he indigenous species ‘The Primal Ewok tribe’ , come across as almost comic relief, and almost capsizes the more serious tone and momentum completely. But this plays to the sensibilities of the younger members of the audience , coming into the franchise.Also the grounded forest locations are a great backdrop to host a ground battle against the action happening off world. Industrial Light and Magic again demonstrates its position of Industry 'Gold' Standard in realising Lucas’ galaxy , serving some magnificent composite shots in action battles. As our heroes (and entire fleets) take on the Empire armada .And delivers a suitably grand trilogy climax, where every character is given their moment to shine. But the audience is only here for one thing; a confrontation between Luke and Vader. Luke (Mark Hamill again) delivers a purposely more mature performance of boy become man, with the burden on knowledge and wisdom that comes with it, and the weight of the galaxy on his shoulders. But is it Ian Mcdiarmid who almost steals he show , as The Emperor,with wonderfully delicious evil glee ,in his performance as ‘The Most Powerful and Evil being in the Galaxy.’ Return of the Jedi provided a remarkable final chapter. Richard Marquand's skillful humble direction avoids any challenge to Lucas's commanding wizardry, resulting in a film that shimmers brilliantly with every action-packed moment.But it is emotional stakes and payoff that lands this franchise towards a satisfying ending