Wikipedia:Today's featured article/May 4, 2022

The Empire Strikes Back is a 1980 American epic space opera film in the Star Wars series, directed by Irvin Kershner with a screenplay by Leigh Brackett and Lawrence Kasdan, and based on a story by George Lucas. Featuring an ensemble cast, the film recounts the battle between the malevolent Galactic Empire led by the Emperor, and the Rebel Alliance led by Princess Leia. Luke Skywalker trains to master the Force so he can confront the powerful Sith lord, Darth Vader. The Empire Strikes Back faced production difficulties, including actor injuries, illnesses, fires, and financing issues, as costs rose to $30.5 million from an initial budget of $8 million. This highly anticipated sequel became the highest-grossing film of 1980. Its reception was mixed because of the darker and more mature tone, but it has been reassessed as the best film in the series, and has been listed among the greatest films of all time. It has had a significant impact on filmmaking and popular culture.