Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back is not only the best film in the Star Wars saga, but it’s also one the the finest movies ever made. It’s a flawless piece of filmmaking on every level. Irvin Kershner’s 1980 follow-up to George Lucas’ Star Wars has stunning visuals and special effects, nuanced performances, a wonderful script and first rate musical score by John Williams.
The Empire’s attack on The Rebel base on Hoth during the film’s first act is a bravura sequence, packed with special effects which still look brilliant 40 years on. Here’s the mighty Phil Tippett using stop motion to animate the AT-AT (All Terrain, Armoured Transport) walkers.
Just look at the detail on display there. Stunning.