R.I.P. Irvin Kershner

In my opinion (and those of many others), "The Empire Strikes Back" is the greatest of all Star Wars films. Many of that movie's elements are what made Star Wars so enduring and endearing: Han's cavalier bravado, having the guts to pursue a princess even if he was a "scoundrel"; Leia's headstrong defiance, trying to deny any romantic feelings for Han; the appearance of Yoda and the attachment I had for the character---which even today still amazes me (it was just a puppet, but damned if I didn't love the dude!); Luke's difficulties learning to believe the power of the Force, and Yoda's immense strength in his tiny form; the Imperial March, and all the incredible musical themes; Lando Calrissian, the first intergalactic entrepreneur and bastard (who redeemed himself, thankfully); Threepio getting torn apart, and Chewie finding him; the classic Luke vs Vader fight in Cloud City and Vader's confession; Boba Fett; the carbonite freezing scene, the look on Leia's face, and Chewie's despairing roar; there are even more than just these that I can name. ESB took Star Wars to a deeper level than even the first movie did, a more emotionally impactful level.


Irvin Kershner, the Director of ESB, died at his home in L.A. at the age of 87 today




"I like to fill up the frame with the characters' faces.  There's nothing more interesting than the landscape of the human face."


 - Irvin Kershner