TCM’s 16th Annual Classic Film Festival begins in a galaxy far far away with 1980’s Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back with creator George Lucas presenting the film on Thursday, April 24th.
This year’s theme, “Grand Illusions: Fantastic Worlds on Film”, seems perfect for the fan-favorite film, which many consider to be the best Star Wars film ever made.
“The Empire Strikes Back is like The Godfather Part II. Yes, technically, they’re sequels, the second movie in a series. But they are so much more. Empire not only dazzled and delighted Star Wars fans, it pushed the boundaries of moviemaking, further deepening its characters and expanding the most popular cinematic universe of all time,” said Ben Mankiewicz, TCM Primetime Anchor and Official Host of the TCM Classic Film Festival. “The first Star Wars picture in 1977 ignited a new era in Hollywood and turned a generation of young people into passionate movie fans for life. Then, somehow, three years later, along comes Empire, which might even be better. It’s a stunning accomplishment and surely stands one of the great achievements in the history of film.”
Other films that will screen during the 16th TCM Classic Film Festival include:
THE FABULOUS BAKER BOYS (1989) – with Michelle Pfeiffer
THE RITZ (1976) – with Rita Moreno
BABE (1995) – with James Cromwell
THE LADY EVE (1941) – with Bill Hader
CINDERELLA (1950) – with Mario Cantone and Leonard Maltin
APOCALYPSE NOW (1978) – in 70mm
DAISY KENYON (1947) – nitrate print
SPIRITED AWAY (2001)
MOTHRA (1961)
EARTH VS. THE FLYING SAUCERS (1956)
PAT AND MIKE (1952)
CAREFREE (1938)
FANTASTIC VOYAGE (1966)
THE INCREDIBLE SHRINKING MAN (1957)
Check out the official trailer below and consult TCM’s official website for ticket information.