Nerds That Geek Movie Review - 'Star Wars: Episode VI - Return of the Jedi'

Written by John Edward Betancourt

Finales of any kind have to be difficult for filmmakers to put together. After all, this is the last time a particular story is going to be told and if it isn't done right, the ire of the fans will come forth and understandably so. These are the folks who have stood by a story after all this time so it's only fair they expect everything to be perfect when the time comes to say goodbye.

Which bring us to the sixth film in the Star Wars series, Return of the Jedi, because this is one of those polarizing films for fans of the franchise because I think this is a Star Wars film that you either completely love or completely hate for various reasons. I mean, some folks simply cannot stand the Ewoks and the third act of this motion picture and that's okay.

I personally hold this one near and dear to my heart because it's the first Star Wars film that I was actually able to see in theaters during its initial run in 1983 and to this day the movie remains magical in my memory and despite its flaws, I am of the opinion that this is actually an integral film to the franchise and one that does indeed serve up a perfect finale to a flawed character's journey.

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​After all, it is filled to the brim with some classic storytelling, specifically when it comes to the battle between good versus evil and really, who doesn't enjoy that kind of showdown? I mean this is it, this is the film when Luke finally becomes a Jedi and squares off against his father and the Emperor in epic fashion and the struggle that Vader has to go through, since his need to serve the Emperor and his desire to love his son tears his soul apart, has always fascinated me and it makes that magical moment when Vader makes his decision all the more powerful and quite frankly beautiful. 

Not to mention, this movie features one big time and kickass finale. Whether or not you like the film, the Battle of Endor is without a doubt one of the coolest final battles I've ever seen. Sure the Ewoks are a little doofy but who cares, it's not the stuff on Endor that anyone really remembers, it's what happens above in space. To finally see the Empire and the Rebellion go head to head in one final battle, with incredible losses on both sides...well it's a truly epic showdown. One that to this day still sends chills down my spine and leaves me hooting and hollering even though I've seen the movie more times than I count. 

In a way though, this film takes on a bigger role in the franchise than we give it credit thanks to The Force Awakens. I say that because now in a way, this final chapter in Anakin's story, where his redemption comes full circle now becomes a tragedy. For despite the fact that he was able to conquer the darkness within and make amends with his son and in many ways, save the damn universe...the dark shadow that Darth Vader cast will always serve as his legacy, and it inspired a new generation of evil, and it is that new wrinkle to the story that gives this film a fresh feel when it comes to the franchise and I don't think we will ever view it in the same light ever again.

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