The
Adventures of Luke Starkiller
as taken from the
“Journal of the Whills”
by
George Lucas
(Saga I)
STAR WARS
Revised Fourth Draft
March 15, 1976
Lucasfilm Ltd.
20th Century Fox
NOTE:
The * (asterisk) symbol to the left of the character name indicates some of the most significant dialogue contributions by Gloria Katz and Willard Huyck, which they wrote for the revised fourth draft. Source: Laurent Bouzereau, Star Wars: The Annotated Screenplays, 1997.
FADE IN…
A long, long time ago in a galaxy
far, far away an incredible
adventure took place…
FADE OUT…
FADE IN
1. EXT. SPACE
A vast sea of stars serves as the backdrop for the MAIN TITLE. War drums echo through the heavens, as a ROLLUP slowly crawls into infinity…
It is a period of civil wars in the galaxy. A brave alliance of underground freedom fighters has challenged the tyranny and oppression of the awesome GALACTIC EMPIRE.
Striking from a fortress hidden among the billion stars of the galaxy, rebel spaceships have won their first victory in a battle with the powerful Imperial starfleet. The EMPIRE fears that another defeat could bring a thousand more solar systems into the rebellion, and Imperial control over the galaxy would be lost forever.
To crush the rebellion once and for all, the EMPIRE is constructing a sinister new battle station. Powerful enough to destroy an entire planet, its completion spells certain doom for the champions of freedom.
The awesome yellow planet of Tatooine emerges from a total eclipse. A tiny silver spacecraft races into view, followed by a giant Imperial starship. Hundreds of deadly laser bolts streak from the Imperial warship, causing the main solar fin of the rebel craft to disintegrate. The smoldering rebel ship is quickly overtaken by the Imperial craft.
2. INT. REBEL SPACEFIGHTER – MAIN PASSAGEWAY
An explosion rocks the ship as two robots, ARTOO DETOO (R2-D2) and SEE THREEPIO (C-3PO) struggle to make their way through the shaking bouncing passageway. Both robots are old and battered. Artoo is a short claw-armed tripod. His face is a mass of computer lights, surrounding a radar eye. Threepio, on the other hand, is a tall slender robot of human proportions. He has a gleaming bronze-like metallic surface of an “Art Deco” design
THREEPIO
Did you hear that? They’ve shut down the main reactor. We’ll be destroyed for sure. This is madness!!
The little dwarf robot makes a series of electronic sounds that only another robot could understand. Rebel troops rush past the robots and take up position in the main passageway. Tension mounts as loud metallic footsteps and the scraping screams of heavy equipment are heard moving around on the outside of the hull of the ship.
THREEPIO
There is no escape for the Captain this time…
Suddenly, a tremendous blast opens up a hole in the main passageway and a score of fearsome stormtroopers make their way into the smoking corridor. In a few moments the entire passageway blazes with laser fire. The deadly bolts ricochet in wild random patterns creating huge explosions. Stormtroopers scatter and duck behind storage lockers. Laser bolts hit several rebel soldiers who scream and stagger through the smoke, holding shattered arms and faces.
An explosion hits near the robots and the lanky Threepio becomes entangled in the mass of dangling wires, which spark and pop every time he attempts to move. Artoo waddles to his friends aid.
THREEPIO
Help me! I think something is melting… This is all your fault! I should have known better than to trust the logic of a half-sized thermocapsulary dehousing assister…
Artoo counters with an angry rebuttal as the battle rages around the two hapless robots.
3. EXT. TATOOINE – DESERT WASTELAND – DAY
A death-white wasteland stretches from horizon to horizon. The tremendous heat of two huge twin suns settles on a lone figure, LUKE STARKILLER, a farm boy with heroic aspirations who looks much younger than his twenty years. His shaggy hair and baggy tunic give him the air of a simple, but lovable lad with a prize-winning smile.
A light wind whips at him as he adjusts several valves on a large battered moisture vaporator which sticks out of the desert floor much like an oil pipe with valves. He is aided by a beat-up tread-robot with six claw arms. The little robot appears to be barely functioning and moves with jerky motions. A bright sparkle in the morning sky catches Luke’s eye and he instinctively grabs a pair of electrobinoculars from his utility belt.
He stands transfigured for a few moments studying the heavens, then dashes toward his dented, crudely repaired landspeeder (auto-like transport that travels a few feet above the ground on a magnetic field). He motions for the tiny robot to follow him.
LUKE
Hurry up! Come with me! What are you waiting for?! Get it in gear!
The robot scoots around in a tight circle, stops short and smoke begins to pour out of every joint. Luke throws his arms up in disgust. Exasperated, the young farm boy jumps into his landspeeder leaving the smoldering robot to hum madly.
A3. INT. REBEL STARFIGHTER – MAIN HALLWAY
The awesome, seven-foot tall DARK LORD OF THE SITH makes his way into the blinding light of the main passageway. This is DARTH VADER, right hand of the Emperor. His face is obscured by his flowing black robes and grotesque breath mask which stands out next to the fascist white armored suits of the Imperial stormtroopers. Everyone instinctively backs away from the imposing warrior and a deathly quiet sweeps through the Rebel troops. Several of the rebel troops break and run in a frenzied panic.
4. INT. REBEL SPACEFIGHTER – SUB HALLWAY
Threepio stands in a smoky hallway, somewhat bewildered. Artoo is nowhere in sight. The pitiful screams of the doomed rebel soldiers can be heard in the distance.
THREEPIO
R-2! R-2-D-2 where are you?
A familiar clanking sound attracts 3-PO’s attention and he spots little Artoo at the end of the hallway in a smoke-filled alcove. Kneeling in front of Artoo, a beautiful young girl, surreal and out of place (almost a dream half hidden in the smoke), finishes adjusting something on his computer face then watches as the little robot joins his companion. Threepio takes only momentary notice of the girl and then she is gone.
*THREEPIO
Where have you been? They’re heading in this direction. What are you going to do? We’ll be sent to the spice mines of Kessel or smashed into who-knows-what! Wait, where are you going?
Artoo scoots past his bronze friend and races down the sub-hallway. Threepio chases after him.
5. OMITTED
6. INT. REBEL SPACEFIGHTER – COCKPIT CORRIDOR
The evil Darth Vader stands among the broken and twisted
bodies of his foes. He grabs a wounded rebel officer by
the neck and holds him high above the ground. An Imperial
officer rushes up to the Dark Lord.
IMPERIAL OFFICER
The information retrieval system has been wiped clean.
Vader squeezes the neck of the rebel trooper, who struggles in vain.
VADER
Where is the data you intercepted? What have you done with those information tapes?
REBEL OFFICER
We intercepted no information! This is a consular ship… didn’t you see our markings! We’re on a diplomatic mission…
VADER
(Angry)
Where are those tapes?
REBEL OFFICER
Only… only the commander knows…
VADER
This ship carries the crest of Alderaan. Is any of the royal family on board? Who were you carrying?
The rebel refuses to speak but eventually cries out as the Dark Lord begins to squeeze the officer’s throat, creating a gruesome snapping and choking, until the soldier goes limp. Vader tosses the dead soldier against the wall and turns to his troops.
VADER
Start tearing this ship apart piece by piece until you have those tapes. Find the passengers of this vessel. I want them alive.
The stormtroopers scurry into the sub-hallways.
A6. INT. REBEL SPACEFIGHTER – LIFEPOD BAY
Artoo stops before the small hatch of an emergency lifepod. He snaps the seal on the main latch and a red warning light begins to flash. The stubby astro-robot works his way into the cramped four-man pod.
THREEPIO
Hey, you’re not permitted in there. It’s restricted. You’ll be deactivated for sure. Now come out before someone sees you. Come on!
Artoo whistles something at his reluctant friend regarding the mission he is about to perform.
THREEPIO
Mission!?! What mission? What are you talking about? You’ve short-circuited… no more adventures. I’m not getting in there!
Artoo isn’t happy with Threepio’s stubbornness and he beeps
and twangs angrily.
THREEPIO
Don’t call me a mindless philosopher, you overweight glob of grease…
A new explosion, this time very close, sends dust and debris through the narrow sub-hallway. Flames lick at Threepio and after a flurry of electronic swearing from Artoo, the lanky robot jumps into the lifepod.
THREEPIO
I’m going to regret this.
The safety door snaps shut and with the thunder of exploding latches,the tiny lifepod ejects from the disabled starfighter.
B6. INT. IMPERIAL STARDESTROYER – COCKPIT
On the main viewscreen, the lifepod carrying the two terrified robots speeds away from the stricken rebel spacecraft. In the foreground a huge mechanical arm lifts a computer panel out of a cabinet.
CHIEF PILOT
There goes another one.
CAPTAIN
Hold your fire. There are no life forms. It must have short-circuited. Don’t waste your power…
C6. INT. REBEL SPACEFIGHTER – NARROW SUB-HALLWAY
The lovely young girl (about sixteen years old) huddles in a small alcove as the stormtroopers search through the ship. She is PRINCESS LEIA ORGANA, a member of the Alderaan Senate. The fear in her eyes slowly gives way to anger as the muted crushing sounds of the approaching stormtroopers grow louder. One of the troopers spots her and radios to the others.
TROOPER
Set for stun…
Leia steps from her hiding place and blasts two troopers with her laser pistol. She starts to run but is felled by a paralyzing ray. The troopers inspect her inert body.
TROOPER
She’ll be all right. Report to Lord Vader.
7. EXT. SKY OVER TATOOINE – LIFEPOD
The reddish-yellow mass of Tatooine seems to engulf the tiny lifepod containing the two robots. The starships grow smaller as the pod descends toward the planet.
A7. INT. LIFEPOD
Artoo and Threepio look out at the receding starships.
THREEPIO
That’s funny. The damage doesn’t look as bad from out here. Are you sure this thing is safe?
8 EXT. ANCHORHEAD SETTLEMENT – POWER STATION – DAY
Heat waves radiate from the dozen or so bleached white buildings. Luke pilots his landspeeder through the dusty empty street of the tiny settlement. An old WOMAN runs to get out of the way of the speeding vehicle, shaking her fist at Luke as he flies past.
WOMAN
I’ve told you kids to slow down!
Luke pulls up behind a low concrete service station that is all but covered by the shifting desert sands.
9. INT. POWER STATION – DAY
Luke bursts into the power station, waking THE FIXER, a rugged mechanic and CAMIE, a sexy disheveled girl who has been asleep on his lap. They grumble as he races through the office, yelling wildly.
FIXER
Did I hear a young noise blast through here?
CAMIE
It was just Wormie on another rampage.
Luke bounces into a small room behind the office where DEAK and WINDY, two tough boys about the same age as Luke, are playing a computer pool-like game with BIGGS, a burly, handsome boy a few years older than the rest. His flashy city attire is a sharp contrast to the loose-fitting tunics of the farm boys. A robot repairs some equipment in the background.
LUKE
Shape it up you guys!… Biggs?
Luke’s surprise at the appearance of Biggs gives way to great joy and emotion. They give each other a great bear hug.
LUKE
I didn’t know you were back! When did you get in?
BIGGS
Just now, I wanted to surprise you, hot shot. I thought you’d be here… certainly didn’t expect you to be out working.
(He laughs).
LUKE
The academy didn’t change you much… but you’re back so soon? Hey, what happened, didn’t you get your commission?
Biggs has an air of cool that seems slightly phony.
BIGGS
Of course I got it. Signed aboard THE RAND ECLIPTIC last week. First mate Biggs Darklighter at your service…
(he salutes)
… I just came back to say good-bye to all you unfortunate landlocked simpletons.
Everyone laughs. The dazzling spectacle of his dashing friend is almost too much, but suddenly he snaps out of it.
LUKE
I almost forgot. There’s a battle going on! Right here in our system. Come and look!
DEAK
Not again! Forget it.
10. EXT. ANCHORHEAD SETTLEMENT – POWER STATION – DAY
The group stumbles out into the stifling desert sun. Camie and The Fixer complain and are forced to shade their eyes. Luke has his binoculars out scanning the heavens.
LUKE
There they are!
Biggs take the binoculars from Luke as the other strain to see something with the naked eye. Through the binoculars Biggs sees two small silver specks.
BIGGS
That’s no battle, hot shot… they’re just sitting there! Probably a freighter-tanker refueling.
LUKE
But there was a lot of firing earlier…
Camie grabs the binoculars away banging them against the
building in the process. Luke grabs them.
LUKE
Hey, easy with those…
CAMIE
Don’t worry about it, Wormie.
Fixer gives Luke a hard look and the young farm boy shrugs his shoulders in resignation.
FIXER
I keep telling you, the rebellion is a long way from here. I doubt if the Empire would even fight to keep this system. Believe me Luke, this planet is a big hunk of nothing…
Luke agrees, although it’s obvious he isn’t sure why. The group stumbles back into the power station, grumbling about Luke’s ineptitude.
11. INT. REBEL SPACEFIGHTER – HALLWAY
Princess Leia is led down a low-ceilinged hallway by a squad of armored stormtroopers. Her hands are bound and she is brutally shoved when she is unable to keep up with the briskly marching troops. They stop in a smoking hallway as Darth Vader emerges from the shadows. The sinister Dark Lord stares hard at the frail young senator, but she doesn’t move.
LEIA
Lord Vader, I should have known. Only you could be so bold. The Imperial senate will not sit still for this, when they hear you’ve attacked a diplomatic…
VADER
Don’t play games with me Your Highness.You weren’t on any mercy mission this time.You passed directly through a restricted system. Several transmissions were beamed to this ship by spies, who are now unfortunately dead. I want to know what happened to the data they sent you.
LEIA
I don’t know what you’re talking about.I’m a member of the imperial senate on a diplomatic mission to…
VADER
You’re a part of the Rebel Alliance… and a traitor. Take her away.
Leia is marched away down the hallway and into the smoldering hole blasted in the side of the ship. An Imperial commander turns to Vader.
COMMANDER
Holding her is dangerous. If word of this gets out, there will be much unrest in the senate. It will generate sympathy for the rebellion… She should be destroyed.
VADER
My duty is to find that hidden fortress of theirs. We have traced the rebel spies to her now she is my only link to discovering the location of their secret base and I intend to use it.
COMMANDER
She’ll die before she gives you any information.
VADER
Leave that to me. Send a distress signal. Call it a meteorite storm. Then inform her father and the senate that all aboard were killed.
The troopers approach Vader and the commander. They stop and snap to attention.
TROOPER
The data tapes are not on board this ship. No transmissions were made. A malfunctioning repair pod was jettisoned during the fighting, but we’ve confirmed that there were no life form aboard…
VADER
They must have put the tapes in the repair pod. Send a detachment down to retrieve them be subtle. Don’t attract attention… vaporize this ship. Don’t leave anything.
Vader turns to the commander.
The data on those tapes could prove to be most damaging. I want that stolen data destroyed at all costs. See to it personally, Commander. There will be no one to save them now.
The commander gives the Dark Lord a short bow and exits.
12-13. OMITTED
14. EXT. TATOOINE – EDGE OF THE DUNE SEA
JUNDLAND or “No Man’s Land” where the rugged desert mesas meet the foreboding dune sea. The two helpless astro-robots kick up clouds of dust as they leave the lifepod and clumsily work their way across the desert coastline. The lifepod rests half buried in the sand in the distance.
THREEPIO
What a forsaken place this is. We seem to be made to suffer. It’s our lot in life. I’ve got to rest before I fall apart. My joints are almost frozen.
Suddenly Artoo makes a sharp right turn and starts off in the direction of the rocky desert mesas. Threepio stops and yells at him.
THREEPIO
Where do you think you’re going!?
A stream of electronic noises pour forth from the small robot.
THREEPIO
Well, I’m not going that way. It’s too rocky. This way is much easier. What makes you think there are any settlements that way?
Artoo counters with a long whistle.
THREEPIO
Don’t get technical with me. I’ve had just about enough of you. Go that way, go on! You’ll be malfunctioning within a day, you nearsighted scrap pile!
He shoves Artoo and the tiny robot tumbles down a small dune. Threepio starts off in the direction of the vast dune sea as little Artoo struggles to his feet.
THREEPIO
… and don’t let me catch you following me, begging for help… because you won’t get it!
Artoo’s reply is a rather rude sound. He turns and trudges off in the direction of the towering mesas.
15. EXT. TATOOINE – DUNE SEA
Threepio, hot and tired, struggles up over the ridge of a dune, past the bleached bones of a dinosaur-like beast, only to find more dunes which seem to go on for endless miles. He looks back in the direction of the now distant rock mesas.
THREEPIO
You little malfunctioning twerp. This is all your fault. You tricked me into going this way but you’ll do no better.
He sits in a huff of anger and frustration, knocking the sand from his joints. His plight seems hopeless, when a glint of reflected light in the distance reveals an object moving toward him. The bronze android waves frantically and yells at the approaching transport.
THREEPIO
Hello! Over here! This way.
16. EXT. POWER STATION – DAY
Luke and Biggs are walking and drinking a malt brew. Fixer and the others can be heard working inside.
LUKE
(Very animated)
… so I cut off my power, shut down the afterburners and came in low on Deak’s trail. I was so close I thought I was going to fry my instruments. As it was I busted up the Skyhopper pretty bad. Uncle Owen was pretty upset. He grounded me for the rest of the season. You should have been there… it was fantastic.
BIGGS
You ought to take it a little easy Luke. You may be the hottest bushpilot this side of Mos Eisley, but those little skyhoppers are dangerous. Keep it up, and one day whammo! you’re going to be nothing more than a dark spot on the down side of a canyon wall.
LUKE
Look who’s talking. Now that you’ve been around those giant starships you’re beginning to sound like my uncle. You’ve gotten soft in the city…
BIGGS
I’ve missed you kid.
LUKE
Well, things haven’t been the same since you left Biggs. It’s been so… quiet.
Biggs looks around then leans close to Luke.
BIGGS
Luke, I didn’t come back just to say good-bye… I shouldn’t tell you this but you’re the only one I can trust… and if I don’t come back, I want somebody to know.
Luke’s eyes are wide with Biggs’ seriousness and loyalty.
LUKE
What are you talking about?
BIGGS
I made some friends at the Academy…
(whispering)
… when our frigate goes to one of the central systems, we’re going to jump ship and join the Alliance…
Luke is amazed and stunned almost speechless.
LUKE
Join the rebellion?! Are you kidding! How?!?
BIGGS
Quiet down will ya! You got a mouth bigger than a meteor crater!
LUKE
I’m sorry. I’m quiet.
(whispering)
Listen how quiet I am. You can barely hear me…
Biggs shakes his head angrily and then continues.
BIGGS
My friend has a friend on Bestine who might help us make contact.
LUKE
You’re crazy! You could wander around forever trying to find them.
BIGGS
I know it’s a long shot, but if I don’t find them I’ll do what I can on my own… It’s what we always talked about. Luke, I’m not going to wait for the Empire to draft me into service. The rebellion is spreading and I want to be on the right side – the side I believe in.
LUKE
And I’m stuck here…
BIGGS
I thought you were going to the academy next term. You’ll get your chance to get off this rock.
LUKE
Not likely! I had to cancel my application. There has been a lot of unrest among the sandpeople since you left… they’ve even raided the outskirts of Anchorhead.
BIGGS
Your uncle could hold off a whole colony of sandpeople with one blaster.
LUKE
I know, but he’s got enough vaporators going to make the place pay off. He needs me for just one more season. I can’t leave him now.
BIGGS
I feel for you Luke, you’re going to have to learn what seems to be important from what really is important. What good is all your Uncle’s work if its taken over by the Empire… You know they’re starting to nationalize commerce in the central systems… it won’t be long before your Uncle is merely a tenant, slaving for the greater glory of the Empire.
LUKE
It couldn’t happen here. You said it yourself, the Empire won’t bother with this rock.
BIGGS
Things always change.
LUKE
I wish I was going… Are you going to be around long?
BIGGS
No, I’m leaving in the morning…
LUKE
Then I guess I won’t see you.
BIGGS
Maybe someday… I’ll keep a lookout.
LUKE
Well, I’ll be at the Academy next season… after that who knows, I won’t be drafted into the Imperial Starfleet that’s for sure… take care of yourself, you’ll always be the best friend I’ve got.
BIGGS
So long, Luke.
Biggs turns away from his old friend and heads back towards the power station.
17. EXT. TATOOINE – ROCK CANYON – SUNSET
The gargantuan rock formations are shrouded in a strange foreboding mist and the ominous sounds of unearthly creatures fill the air. Artoo moves cautiously through the creepy rock canyon, inadvertently making a loud clicking noise as he goes. He hears a distant, hard, metallic sound and stops for a moment. Convinced he is alone, he continues on his way.
In the distance, a pebble tumbles down the steep canyon wall and a small dark figure darts into the shadows. A little further up the canyon a slight flicker of light reveals a pair of eyes in the dark recesses only a few feet from the narrow path.
The unsuspecting robot waddles along the rugged trail until suddenly out of nowhere, a powerful magnetic ray shoots out of the rocks and engulfs him in an eerie glow. He manages one short electronic squeak before he topples over onto his back. His bright computer lights flicker off, then on, then off again. Out of the rocks scurry three MEN, no taller than Artoo. They holster strange and complex weapons as they cautiously approach the robot. They wear grubby cloaks and their faces are shrouded so that only their glowing yellow eyes can be seen. They hiss and make odd guttural sounds as they heave the heavy robot to their shoulders and carry him off down the trail.
18. EXT. TATOOINE – ROCK CANYON – SANDCRAWLER – SUNSET
The eight JAWAS carry Artoo out of the canyon to a huge tank-like vehicle the size of a four-story house. They weld a small disk on the side of Artoo and then put him under a large tube on the side of the vehicle and the little robot is sucked into the giant machine.
The filthy little Jawas scurry like rats up small ladders and enter the main cabin of the behemoth transport.
19. OMITTED
20. INT. SANDCRAWLER – PRISON AREA
Artoo enters a wide room with a four-foot ceiling. In the middle of the scrap heap sit a dozen or so robots of various shapes and sizes. Some are engaged in electronic conversation, while others simply mill about. A voice of recognition calls out from the gloom.
THREEPIO
Artoo Detoo! It’s you! It’s you!
A battered Threepio scrambles up to Artoo and embraces him. He also has a small disc attached to his chest.
21. EXT. TATOOINE – ROCK CANYON – SANDCRAWLER – SUNSET
The enormous sandcrawler lumbers off toward the magnificent twin suns which are slowly setting over a distant mountain ridge.
22. INT. DEATH STAR CONFERENCE OFFICE
Eight Imperial Senators and Generals sit around a black conference table. Six Imperial stormtroopers stand guard around the room. A younger, slimy, looking general, Commander Tagge is speaking.
TAGGE
I tell you he’s gone too far. This Sith Lord sent by the Emperor will be our undoing. Until this battle station is fully operational we are vulnerable. The rebel Alliance is too well equipped. They are more dangerous than you realize.
The wounded Admiral Motti twists nervously in his chair.
MOTTI
Dangerous to your starfleet commander, not to this Battle Station! I think Lord Vader knows what he’s doing. The rebellion will continue only as long as those cowards have a sanctuary…
TAGGE
I think the construction of this station has more to do with Governor Tarkin’s bid for recognition than any prudent military strategy. The rebellion will continue to gain support in the Imperial senate as long as…
Suddenly all heads turn as Commander Tagge’s speech is cut short and the entrance of the Grand Moff Tarkin, governor of the Imperial outland regions. He is followed by his powerful henchman the Sith Lord, Darth Vader. All of the generals stand and bow before the thin, evil looking Governor as he takes his place at the head of the table. The Dark Lord stands behind him.
TARKIN
The Imperial Senate will no longer be of any concern to us… I have just received word that the Emperor has dissolved the Council permanently! The last remnants of the old republic have finally been swept away.
TAGGE
Impossible. How will the Emperor maintain control without the bureaucracy?
TARKIN
The regional governors now have direct control over their territories. Fear will keep the local systems in line… Fear of this battle station.
TAGGE
And what of the Rebellion? If the Rebels have obtained a complete technical readout of this battle station it is possible – however unlikely – that they might find a weakness and exploit it.
VADER
The technical data you’re referring to will soon be back in our hands.
MOTTI
Any attack made against this station by the rebels would be a useless gesture.. no matter what technical datas they’ve obtained. This battle station is now the ultimate power in the universe.
Vader stirs slightly and a cup mysteriously floats into his hand.
VADER
Don’t be too proud of this technological terror you have created. The ability to destroy a planet, or whole system is insignificant next to the cosmic Force.
MOTTI
Don’t try to frighten us with your sorcerer’s ways, Lord Vader. Your sad devotion to that ancient religion has not helped you conjure up those stolen data tapes… or given you clairvoyance enough to find the rebel’s hidden fortress. I have to laugh .. ah…
Suddenly Motti chokes and starts to turn blue under Vader’s spell.
VADER
I find your lack of faith disturbing.
TARKIN
Enough of this! Vader, release him. This bickering is pointless. Lord Vader will provide us with the location of the rebel fortress by the time this station is operational. We will then crush this rebellion with one swift stroke.
VADER
As the Emperor wills it, so it shall be.
23-24. OMITTED
25. INT. SANDCRAWLER – PRISON AREA
Threepio and Artoo noisily bounce along inside the cramped prison chamber. Artoo appears to be shut off.
THREEPIO
Will this never end?
Suddenly the trembling and bouncing of the sandcrawler stops, creating quite a commotion among the mechanical men. Threepio shakes Artoo and his computer lights pop on.
THREEPIO
Wake up! Wake up! We’ve stopped!! We’re doomed! Do you think they’ll melt us down?
At the far end of the long chamber a hatch opens filling the chamber with blinding white light. A dozen or so Jawas make their way through the odd assortment of robots. Artoo and Threepio are among the chosen and are herded outside with several other unfortunates.
26. EXT. TATOOINE – LAR’S HOMESTEAD – SALT FLAT – AFTERNOON
Five battered robots, including Artoo and Threepio are lined up in front of the enormous sandcrawler which is parked beside a small homestead consisting of three large holes in the ground, surrounded by several tall moisture vaporators and one small adobe block house.
The Jawas scurry around fussing over the robots, straightening them up or brushing some dust from a dented metallic elbow. The shrouded little creatures smell horribly, attracting small insects to the dark areas when their mouths and nostrils should be.
Out of the shadows of a dingy side-building limps OWEN LARS, a large burly man in his mid-fifties. His reddish eyes are sunken in a dust covered face. As the farmer carefully inspects each of the robots, he is closely followed by his slump-shouldered nephew, Luke Starkiller. One of the vile little Jawas walks ahead of the farmer spouting an animated sales pitch in a queer unintelligible language.
A voice calls out from one of the huge holes that form the homestead. Luke goes over to the edge and sees his Aunt Beru standing in the main courtyard.
BERU
Luke, tell Owen that if he gets a translator, to be sure it speaks “Bocce”.
LUKE
It looks like we don’t have much of a choice but I’ll remind him.
Owen picks out a small astro-robot similar to Artoo and it waddles along behind the group. The limping farmer stops in front of Threepio and studies him carefully.
OWEN
Do you function in etiquette and protocol?
THREEPIO
Do I know protocol. Why it’s my primary function .. I am well versed in the customs and…
OWEN
I don’t need a protocol droid.
THREEPIO
(quickly)
I don’t blame you, sir… not in an environment such as this – that’s why I’ve also been programmed for over thirty secondary functions that…
OWEN
I need a droid that knows something about the binary languages of moisture vaporators.
THREEPIO
Vaporators! Sir .. My first job was programming binary load lifters .. very similar in most respects to your… vaporators. You could say…
OWEN
Do you speak “Bocce?”
THREEPIO
Of course, sir. It’s like a second language for me .. I’m as fluent in Bocce…
OWEN
Shut up! (turning to Jawa) I’ll take this one.
THREEPIO
Shutting up, sir.
OWEN
Luke, take them to the garage. I want you to have both of them cleaned up by dinner.
LUKE
But I was going into Toshi Station to pick up some power converters…
OWEN
You can waste time with your friends after you’ve finished your chores. Now get to it!
As the Jawas start to lead the three remaining robots back into the sandcrawler, Artoo lets out a pathetic little beep and starts after his old friend Threepio but is restrained by a slimy Jawa who zaps him with a control box. Owen is negotiating with the head Jawa. Luke and the two robots start for the garage when a plate pops off the head of the R-2 unit throwing parts all over the ground.
LUKE
Uncle Owen, this R-2 unit has a bad motivator, look!
He adjusts the R-2 unit’s head plate and it sparks wildly.
OWEN (to head Jawa)
What are you trying to push on us?
The Jawa goes into a loud spiel. Meanwhile, Artoo has sneaked out of line and is moving up and down trying to attract attention. He lets out with a low whistle. Threepio taps Luke on the shoulder.
THREEPIO
If I might say so sir, but that R-2 unit is in top condition… a real bargain.
LUKE (to Uncle)
What about that one?
Owen argues with the Jawas for a few moments, then with a little reluctance the scruffy dwarf trades the damaged astro-robot for Artoo Detoo. Owen pays off the whining Jawa as Luke and the two robots trudge off toward a grimy homestead entry.
THREEPIO
Don’t forget this! Why I stick my neck out for you is beyond my capacity ..
27. INT. LARS HOMESTEAD – GARAGE AREA – LATE AFTERNOON
The garage is cluttered and worn, but a friendly peaceful atmosphere permeates the low gray chamber. In the center of the room Threepio lowers himself into a large tub filled with warm oil. Near the battered landspeeder little Artoo rests on a large battery with a cord attached to his face.
THREEPIO
Thanks the maker! This is going to feel sooo good. I’ve got such a bad case of dust contamination I can barely move!
Artoo beeps a muffled reply. Luke seems to be lost in thought as he runs his hand over the damaged fin of a small two-man “sky-hopper” spaceship resting in a low hangar off the garage. Finally Luke’s frustrations get the better of him and he slams a wrench across the workbench.
LUKE
It just isn’t fair! Biggs is right, I’ll never get out of here!
THREEPIO
I beg your pardon sir, but is there anything I might do to help?
Luke glances at the battered robot and a bit of his anger drains and a tiny smile creeps across his face.
*LUKE
Not unless you can alter time… speed up the harvest… or teleport me off this rock
*THREEPIO
Uh – I don’t think so, sir. I’m only a droid and not very knowledgeable about such things… not on this planet anyway. As a matter of fact, sir, I’m not even sure which planet I’m on.
*LUKE
If there’s a bright center to this universe, you’re on the planet that’s the farthest from it.
*THREEPIO
I see, sir.
*LUKE
You can call me Luke.
*THREEPIO
Yes, Sir Luke.
*LUKE
Just Luke.
*THREEPIO
Oh. I am See-Threepio, Human Cyborg relations and this is my counterpart, Artoo Detoo.
Luke unplugs Artoo and begins to scrape several connectors on the robot’s head with a chrome pick. Threepio climbs out of the oil tub and begins wiping oil from his bronze body.
LUKE
There’s a lot of carbon scoring here. It looks like you both have seen a lot of action…
THREEPIO
Indeed sir, sometimes I’m amazed we’re in as good shape as we are, what with the rebellion and all.
Luke sparks to life at the mention of rebellion.
LUKE
You know of the rebellion? Against the Empire?
THREEPIO
That’s how we came to be in your service, if you take my meaning…
LUKE
Tell me where you’ve been. Were you been in many battles?
THREEPIO
Several, I think. There is not much to tell. I’m not much more than an interpreter and not very good at telling stories, not at making them interesting anyways…
Luke struggles to remove a small metal fragment from Artoo’s neck joint. He uses a larger pick.
LUKE
Well, my little friend, you’ve got something jammed in here real good… were you on a star-cruiser or a…
The fragment breaks loose with a snap, sending Luke tumbling head over heels. He sits up and sees a small (12 inch) 3-D hologram of Leia Organa, the rebel senator, being projected from the face of little Artoo. The image is a rainbow of colors as it flickers and jiggles in the dimly lit garage. Luke’s mouth hangs open in awe.
LEIA
… Obi-wan Kenobi… help me! You’re my only ho…
LUKE
What’s this?
Artoo looks around and sheepishly beeps an answer for Threepio to translate. Leia continues to repeat the sentence fragment over and over.
THREEPIO
What is what?!? He asked you a question…
(pointing at Leia)
What is that?
Artoo beeps his surprise as he pretends to just notice the hologram and whistles his reply.
THREEPIO
He says it’s nothing, sir. Merely a malfunction. Old data, pay it no mind.
Luke becomes intrigued by the beautiful young girl.
LUKE
Who is she?… She’s beautiful.
THREEPIO
I’m afraid I’m not quite sure sir! I think she was a passenger on our last voyage. A person of some importance I believe. Our captain was attache to…
LUKE
Is there any more to this recording?
Luke reaches for Artoo but he lets out several frantic squeaks and a whistle.
THREEPIO
Behave yourself, Artoo. You’re going to get us into trouble. It’s all right. He’s out master now. You can trust him.
Artoo whistles and beeps a long message to Threepio.
THREEPIO
He says he is the property of Obi-wan Kenobi, a resident of these parts. And it is a private message for him. Quite frankly sir, I don’t know what he’s talking about… our last master was Captain Antilles, but with all we’ve been through, I’m afraid he’s become a bit eccentric.
LUKE
Obi-wan Kenobi? I wonder if he means old Ben Kenobi?
THREEPIO
I begging your pardon sir, but do you know him?
LUKE
I don’t know anyone named Obi-wan, but old Ben lives out beyond the dune sea. He’s sort of a strange old hermit. Uncle Owen says he’s a sorcerer. He comes around here once in awhile, to trade things. I’ve hardly even talked to him though. My uncle usually runs him off… but he doesn’t have any droid… at least I don’t think he does…
Luke’s gazes at the beautiful young princess for a few moments.
LUKE
I wonder who she is… she must be important. It sounds to me like she’s in trouble. Maybe the message is important… I should hear the rest of it.
Luke reaches for little Artoo and the little Artoo squeaks a blue streak.
THREEPIO
He says the restraining bolt has short circuited his recording system… he suggests that if you remove the restraining bolt, he might be able to repeat the entire recording.
Luke looks longingly at the lovely little princess and hasn’t really heard what Threepio has been saying.
LUKE
What… of yes… well I guess you’re too small to run away on me if I take this off… I wonder what she’s be sending a message to old Ben for?
Luke takes a wedged bar and pops the restraining bolt off R-2’s side. The princess immediately disappears…
LUKE
There now… wait, where did she go? Make her come back. Play back the entire message…
Artoo beeps an innocent reply. Threepio sits up in embarrassment.
THREEPIO
What message? The one you just played for us. The one you’re carrying inside your rusty innards! I’m sorry sir, but he appears to have picked up a slight flutter… perhaps…
A women’s voice calls out from another room.
AUNT BERU
Luke! Luke, come to dinner.
Luke stands up and shakes his head at the malfunctioning robot.
LUKE
OK, I’m coming Aunt Beru… Oh well, see what you can do with him. I’ll be right back.
Luke tosses Artoo’s retraining bolt on the work bench and hurries out of the room.
THREEPIO
You better consider playing that recording for him. (Artoo beeps) No, I don’t think he likes you at all. (Artoo beeps) No, I don’t like you either.
28. INT. LAR’S [sic] HOMESTEAD – KITCHEN – LATE AFTERNOON
Luke’s Aunt Beru, a warm motherly woman, fills a pitcher with blue milk from a refrigerated container in the well used kitchen. She puts the pitcher on a tray with some bowls of food and starts for the dining area.
Luke sits with his Uncle Owen before a table covered with steaming bowls of food as Aunt Beru carries in the pitcher of blue milk.
LUKE
I think that R-2 unit might have been stolen.
OWEN
What makes you think that?
LUKE
I stumbled on a recording while I was cleaning him… the droid claims to be the property of someone called Obi-wan Kenobi.
Owen is greatly alarmed at the mention of this name, but manages to control himself.
LUKE
I thought he might have meant old Ben. The name is similar… do you know who he’s talking about?
OWEN
It’s a name from another time, that can only mean trouble…
LUKE
Is he related to old Ben. I didn’t think he had…
Owen breaks loose with a fit of uncontrolled anger.
OWEN
You stay away from that old wizard, do you hear me! I’ve told you he’s a crazy old man. He’s dangerous and full of mischief… and best left well alone. That droid has nothing to do with him. Tomorrow I want you to take the R-2 unit into Anchorhead and have its memory flushed. That will be the end of it. I don’t care where the droid came from, it belongs to us now.
LUKE
But what if this Obi-wan comes looking for the droid?
OWEN
He won’t, I don’t think he exists anymore. He died at the same time as your father. Now forget about it.
LUKE
Did he know my father?
OWEN
I said forget about it. Your only concern is getting the new droids ready for tomorrow. The last of our savings is tied up in those two. In the morning I want you to have them working with the condensing units on the south ridge.
LUKE
Yes sir… you know I think those droids are going to work out fine. In fact… I uh… I was also thinking about our agreement about me staying on another season. Well, if those new droids work out, I want to transmit my application to the academy this year.
Owen’s face becomes a scowl, although he tries to suppress it.
OWEN
You mean next term, before the harvest?
LUKE
You got more than enough droids.
OWEN
Droids can’t replace you Luke, you know that. The harvest is when I need you the most. It’s just one more season.
Luke continues to toy with his food, not looking at his uncle.
OWEN
For the first time, we’ve got a fortune beyond belief coming into our hands. We’ll make enough this harvest to hire some extra hands then you can go to the academy… I need you here Luke. You understand that don’t you?
LUKE
But it’s another year…
OWEN
The time will pass before you know it.
Luke pushes his half-eaten plate of food aside and stands.
LUKE
That’s what you said last year when Biggs and Tank left.
BERU
Where are you going?
LUKE
It looks like I’m going nowhere. I have to finish cleaning those droids.
Resigned to his fate, Luke paddles out of the room. Owen mechanically finishes his dinner.
BERU
Owen, we can’t keep him here forever. Most of his friends are gone. It means so much to him.
OWEN
I’ll make it up to him. Next year… I promise.
BERU
Luke’s just not a farmer, Owen. He’s got too much of his father in him.
OWEN
That’s what I’m afraid of.
29. EXT. TATOOINE – LAR’S [sic] HOMESTEAD – ENTRY AREA – SALT FLAT
The giant twin suns of Tatooine slowly disappear behind a distant dune range. Luke stands watching them for a few moments, then reluctantly enters the domed entrance to the homestead.
A29. INT. GARAGE AREA – LAR’S HOMESTEAD
Luke enters the garage to discover the robots nowhere in sight. He takes a small control box from his utility belt. (Similar to the one the Jawa’s were carrying). He activates the box which creates a low hum and Threepio pops up from behind the skyhopper spaceship letting out a short yell.
LUKE
What are you hiding back there for?
Threepio stumbles forward but Artoo is still nowhere in sight.
THREEPIO
It wasn’t my fault sir. Please don’t deactivate me. I told him not to go but he’s faulty, malfunctioning… kept babbling on about his mission.
LUKE
Oh no…
Luke races out of the garage followed by Threepio.
B29. EXT. TATOOINE ENTRY AREA – LAR’S HOMESTEAD – SALT FLAT – SUNSET
Luke rushes out of the small domed entry to the homestead and searches the darkening horizon for the small tri-ped astro-robot. Threepio struggles out of the homestead and on to the salt flat as Luke scans the landscape with his electrobinoculars.
THREEPIO
That Artoo unit has always been a problem. These astro droids are getting too much for me. Even I can’t understand their logic at times.
LUKE
Well, he’s nowhere in sight. Blast it, how could I be so stupid. Uncle Owen’s going to kill me.
THREEPIO
Beggin’ your pardon sir, but can’t we go after him?
LUKE
Not at night. It’s too dangerous with all the sandpeople around. We’ll have to wait until morning.
Owen yells up from the homestead plaza.
OWEN
Luke! Luke are you finished with those droids yet? I’m turning the power down for the night.
LUKE
Alright, I’ll be there in a few minutes.
He turns and takes one final look across the dim horizon.
LUKE
Boy, am I in for it. That little droid is going to get me into a lot of trouble.
THREEPIO
Oh, he excels at that sir.
30-31. OMITTED
32. INT. PLAZA LAR’S HOMESTEAD – MORNING
Morning slowly creeps into the sparse but sparkling oasis of the open courtyard. The idyll is broken by the yelling of Uncle Owen, his voice echoing throughout the homestead.
OWEN
Luke! Luke. Where could he be loafing now?
A32. INT. LAR’S HOMESTEAD – KITCHEN AREA – MORNING
The interior of the kitchen is a warm glow as Beru prepares the morning breakfast. Owen enters in a huff.
OWEN
Have you seen Luke this morning?
BERU
He said he had some things to do before he started today, so he left early.
OWEN
Did he take the new droids with him?
BERU
I think so.
OWEN
He’s better have those condensing units on the south ridge repaired by midday or there’ll be hell to pay.
B32. EXT. TATOOINE – EDGE OF THE DUNE SEA
Four Imperial Stormtroopers mill about in front of the half buried lifepod which brought Artoo and Threepio to Tatooine. A trooper yells to an officer some distance away.
TROOPER
This is the one. But there are no data tapes here, sir.
A second trooper, standing next to the officer picks a small bit of metal out of the sand and give it to the officer.
OFFICER
Droids!
33. EXT. DESERT WASTELAND – LUKE’S SPEEDER – DAY
The rock and sand of the desert floor are a blur as Threepio pilots the sleek landspeeder gracefully across the vast wasteland.
34. INT/EXT. LUKE’S SPEEDER – DESERT WASTELAND – TRAVELING – DAY
Luke adjusts something in the motor compartment.
LUKE
(yelling)
How’s that?
Threepio signals that it is fine and Luke turns back into the wind-whipped cockpit and pops the canopy shut.
LUKE
Old Ben Kenobi lives out in this direction somewhere, but I don’t see how that R-2 unit could have come this far. We must have missed him. Uncle Owen isn’t going to take this very well.
THREEPIO
Sir, would it help if you told him it was my fault.
LUKE
(brightening)
Sure. He needs you. He’d probably only deactivate you for a day or so…
THREEPIO
Deactivate! Well on the other hand if you hadn’t removed his restraining bolt…
LUKE
Wait, there’s something dead on the scanner. It looks like our droid… hit the accelerator.
35. EXT. TATOOINE – ROCK MESA – DUNE SEA – COASTLINE – DAY
From high on a rock mesa, the tiny landspeeder can be seen gliding across the desert floor. Suddenly in the foreground two weather-beaten sandpeople shrouded in their grimy desert cloaks peer over the edge of the rock mesa. One of the marginally human creatures raises a long ominous laser rifle and points it at the speeder but the second creature grabs the gun before it can be fired.
The sandpeople or Tusken raiders as they’re sometimes called speak in a coarse barbaric language as they get into an animated argument. The second Tusken seems to get in the final word and the nomads scurry over the rocky terrain.
36. EXT. TATOOINE – ROCK MESA CANYON
The Tusken raiders approach two large BANTHAS standing tied to a rock. The monstrous bear-like creatures are as large as elephants, with huge red eyes, tremendous looped horns and long furry dinosaur-like tails. The raiders mount saddles strapped to the huge creatures’ shaggy backs and ride off down the rugged bluff.
37. EXT. ROCK CANYON FLOOR – TATOOINE
The speeder is parked on the floor of a massive canyon. Luke with his long laser rifle slung over his shoulder stands before little Artoo.
LUKE
Just where do you think you’re going?
The little droid whistles a feeble reply, as Threepio poses menacingly behind the little runaway.
THREEPIO
Master Luke here is your rightful owner. We’ll have no more of this Obi-wan Kenobi gibberish… and don’t talk to me of your mission. You’re fortunate he doesn’t blast you into a million pieces right here.
LUKE
Well, come on. It’s getting late. I only hope we can get back before Uncle Owen really blows up.
THREEPIO
If you don’t mind my saying so sir, I think you should deactivate the little fugitive until you’ve gotten him back to your workshop.
LUKE
No he’s not going to try anything.
Suddenly the little robot jumps to life with a mass of frantic whistles and screams.
*LUKE
What is it? What’s wrong with him now?
*THREEPIO
Oh my… sir, he says there are several creatures approaching from the southeast.
Luke swings his rifle into position and looks to the south.
LUKE
Sandpeople! Or worse! I’ve never been out this far before. The wild things out here are said to be weird and savage.
38. EXT. TATOOINE – CANYON RIDGE – DAY
Luke carefully makes his way to the top of a rock ridge and scans the canyon with his electrobinoculars. He spots the two riderless Banthas. Threepio struggles up behind the young adventurer.
LUKE
There are two Banthas down there but I don’t see any… wait a second, they’re sandpeople all right. I see one of them.
Luke watches the distant Tusken Raider through his electrobinoculars. Suddenly something huge moves in front of his field of view. Before Luke or Threepio can react, a large gruesome Tusken Raider looms over them. Threepio is startled and backs away, right off the side of the cliff. He can be heard for several moments as he clangs, bangs and rattles down the side of the mountain.
The towering creature brings down his curved, double pointed “Gaderffii” – the dreaded axe blade that has struck terror in the heart of the local settlers. But Luke manages to block the blow with his laser rifle, which is smashed to pieces. The terrified farm boy scrambles backward until he is forced to the edge of a deep crevice. The sinister raider stands over him with his weapon raised and lets out a horrible shrieking laugh.
39. EXT. TATOOINE – ROCK CANYON FLOOR – DAY
Artoo forces himself into the shadows of a small alcove in the rocks as the vicious sandpeople walk past carrying the inert Luke Starkiller, who is dropped in a heap before the speeder. The raiders ransack the speeder, throwing parts and supplies in all directions. Suddenly they stop. Then
everything is quiet for a few moments. A great howling moan is heard echoing throughout the canyon which sends the sandpeople fleeing in terror.
Artoo moves even tighter into the shadows as the slight swishing sound that frightened off the sandpeople grows even closer, until a shabby old desert rat of a man appears and leans over Luke. His ancient leathery face, cracked and weathered by exotic climates is set off by dark, penetrating eyes and a scraggly white beard. BEN KENOBI squints his eyes as he scrutinizes the unconscious farm boy. Artoo makes a slight sound and Ben turns and looks right at him.
BEN
Hello there! Come here my little friend. Don’t be afraid.
Artoo waddles over to where Luke lies crumpled in a heap and begins to whistle and beep his concern. Ben puts his hand on Luke’s forehead and he begins to come to.
BEN
Don’t worry, he’ll be all right.
LUKE
What happened?
BEN
Rest easy son, you’ve had a busy day. You’re fortunate you’re still in one piece.
LUKE
Ben? Ben Kenobi am I glad to see you!
BEN
The Jundland wastes are not to be traveled lightly. Tell me young Luke, what brings you out this far?
LUKE
This little droid! I think he’s searching for his former master… I’ve never seen such devotion in a droid before… there seems to be no stopping him. He claims to be the property of someone called Obi-wan Kenobi. Is he a relative of yours? Do you know who he’s talking about?
Ben ponders this for a moment, scratching his scruffy beard.
BEN
Obi-wan Kenobi… Obi-wan. Now that’s a name I haven’t heard in a long time… a long time. Most curious…
LUKE
I think my Uncle knew him. He said he was dead…
BEN
Oh, he’s not dead, not yet… not yet.
LUKE
You know him!
BEN
Of course, of course I know him, he’s me! I haven’t gone by the name Obi-wan since before you were born.
LUKE
Then this droid does belong to you.
BEN
Can’t seem to remember ever owning a droid. Most interesting… most interesting.
He suddenly looks up at the overhanging cliffs.
BEN (cont’d)
I think it’s best we get inside. The sandpeople are easily startled but they will soon return in greater numbers.
Luke sits up and rubs his head. Artoo lets out a pathetic beep causing Luke to remember something. He looks around.
LUKE
… Threepio!
40. EXT. TATOOINE – SAND PIT – ROCK MESA – DAY
Little Artoo stands at the edge of a large sand pit and begins to chatter away in electronic whistles and beeps. Luke and Ben stand over a very dented and tangled Threepio lying half buried in the sand. One of his arms has broken off.
Luke tries to revive the inert robot by shaking him and then flips a hidden switch on his back several times until finally the mechanical man’s systems turn on.
THREEPIO
Where am I? Oh, I’m sorry, sir. I must have taken a bad step…
LUKE
Can you stand? We’ve got to get out of here before the sandpeople return.
THREEPIO
I don’t think I can make it. You go on Master Luke. It doesn’t make sense for you to risk yourself on my account. I’m done for.
LUKE
No, you’re not. What kind of talk is that?
Luke and Ben help the battered robot to his feet. Little Artoo watches from the top of the pit. Ben glances around suspiciously. Sensing something, he stands up and sniffs the air.
BEN
Quickly son, they’re on the move.
41. OMITTED
42. INT. CAVE DWELLING – MAIN LIVING AREA
The small, spartan hovel, is cluttered with desert junk, but still manages to radiate an air of time worn comfort and security. Luke is in one corner repairing Threepio’s arm, as old Ben fiddles with Artoo.
BEN
Now let’s see if we can’t figure out what you are my little friend and where you came from.
LUKE
I saw part of a message he…
Luke is cut short, as the recorded image of the beautiful young rebel princess is projected from R-2’s face.
BEN
Yes, I seem to have found it.
Luke stops his work as the lovely girl’s image flickers before his eyes.
PRINCESS LEIA
General Obi-wan Kenobi, I present myself in the name of the royal family of Alderaan, and the Alliance to restore the Republic. I break your solitude at the bidding of my father Bail Antillies, Viceroy and Chairman of the Alderaan system. Years ago Commander you served the Republic in the Clone Wars. Now he begs you to aid us again in our most desperate hours. He would have you join him on our home planet Alderaan. You must go to him! I regret I am unable to present my father’s request to you in person… my mission to return with you has failed, information vital to the survival of the Alliance has been placed in this droid… my father will know how to retrieve it. I plead with you to see this R-2 unit safely delivered to Alderaan. You must help me, you are my last hope.
There is a little static and the transmission is cut short Old Ben leans back and scratches his head. He silently puffs on a tarnished chrome water pipe. Luke has stars in his eyes.
LUKE
She is so… terrific. Commander?? You fought in The Clone Wars??
BEN
Oh yes… I was once a Jedi knight… like your father.
LUKE
Jedi knight?? My father didn’t fight in the wars. He was a navigator…. on a spice freighter.
BEN
Oh so your Uncle told you .. He didn’t agree with your father’s ideals, thought he should have stayed here and not gotten involved. He was always afraid your father’s adventures might influence you ..
LUKE
I wish I’d known him…
BEN
He was the best starpilot in the galaxy and a clever warrior… he was a good friend. I understand you’ve become quite a good pilot yourself… in many ways you’re much like your father.
Ben gets up and goes to a chest, where he rummages around.
BEN (cont’d)
Which reminds me, I have something here for you. When you were old enough, your father wanted you to have this. I tried to give it to you but your uncle wouldn’t allow it. He believed you might follow old Obi-wan on some idealistic crusade as your father did.
Luke finishes repairing Threepio and starts to fit the restraining bolt back on, Threepio looks at him nervously, Luke thinks about the bolt for a moment then puts it on the table. Ben shuffles up and presents Luke with a short handle with several electronic gadgets attached to it.
THREEPIO
Sir, if you’ll not be needing me, I think I’ll shut down for a while.
LUKE
Sure, go ahead.
(to BEN)
What is it?
BEN
Your father’s light saber. At one time they were widely used… I believe they still are in some parts of the galaxy…
Luke pushes a button on the handle and a long laser beam shoots out about four feet, flickers there.
BEN (cont’d)
This is the weapon of a Jedi Knight… not as clumsy or random as a blaster. An elegant weapon… for a more civilized time.
(He begins to remember)
For over a thousand generations Jedi Knights were the most powerful, most respected force in the galaxy… the guardians of peace and justice in the old republic. That was when the galactic senate ruled the galaxy before the dark times, before the empire.
Luke hasn’t really been listening.
LUKE
How did my father die?
BEN
He was betrayed and murdered… by a young Jedi, Darth Vader. A boy I was training, one of my brightest disciples, one of my greatest failures… He used the power of the force for evil – to help the empire hunt down and destroy the Jedi knights, now the Jedi are all but extinct. Vader was seduced by the dark side of the force and it consumed him.
LUKE
The force??
BEN
The force is… let’s just say the force is something a Jedi deals with. It is an energy field created by living things – it surrounds us – it binds the galaxy together – it directs our actions. Knowledge of the force is what gives a Jedi his power. You must learn the ways of the force if you are to come with me to Alderaan.
LUKE
Alderaan!?? I’m not going to Alderaan. I’ve got to get back home! It’s late, I’m in for it as it is… you can take the droid… I’ll think of something to tell my uncle… I hope…
BEN
I need your help, Luke. I’m afraid I’m getting too old for this sort of thing ..
LUKE
I can’t get involved, I’ve got work to do. I mean I don’t like the empire… I hate it… but there is nothing I can do about it right now… it’s all such a long way from here.
BEN
That’s your uncle talking.
LUKE
Oh, my uncle. How am I going to explain all this.
BEN
Remember, the Force is with all men, it binds them together. The suffering of one is the suffering of all.
LUKE
I can take you as far as Anchorhead. You can get transport there to the spaceport at Mod Eisley or wherever you’re going…
BEN
You must do what you feel.
LUKE
Right now I don’t feel too good…
A42. INT. DEATH STAR – PRISON CELL CORRIDOR
Two stormtroopers open an electronic cell door and allow several Imperial guards to enter. Princess Leia’s face is filled with defiance which slowly gives way to fear as a giant black torture robot enters, followed by Darth Vader.
VADER
Now your highness we will discuss the location of the hidden rebel base.
The door slides shut, the long cell block hallway appears peaceful. The muffled sounds of the rebel princess are barely heard.
B42EXT. MESA CANYON – SANDCRAWLER – DAY
The speeder stops before what remains of the huge Jawa sandcrawler. Luke and Ben walk among the smoldering rubble and scattered bodies.
LUKE
Looks like the sandpeople did it alright. There’s Bantha tracks and part of those gaffi sticks. But we never heard of them hitting something this big.
Ben is crouching in the sand studying the tracks.
BEN
They didn’t. But we were meant to think so, look at these tracks. Whoever left here rode side by side. Sandpeople always ride in a single file to hide their number. Look at these blast points. Sandpeople are not this accurate. Only Imperial stormtroopers are this precise.
LUKE
These are the same Jawas who sold us Artoo and Threepio. Why would Imperial troops be slaughtering Jawas?
Luke looks back at the speeder where Artoo and Threepio are inspecting the dead Jawas.
LUKE
If they tracked the robots to the Jawas they may have learned who they sold them to. That will lead them back… home.
Luke reaches a sudden horrible realization and races for the speeder and jumps in.
BEN
Wait Luke, it’s too dangerous.
Luke races off leaving Ben and the two robots alone with the burning sandcrawler.
BA42. EXT. DESERT WASTELAND
Luke races across the flat landscape.
C42. EXT. HOMESTEAD – SALT FLAT – TATOOINE
The speeder roars up to the burning homestead. Luke jumps out and runs to the smoking holes that were once his home. Debris is scattered everywhere and it looks as if a great battle has taken place.
LUKE
Aunt Beru! Aunt Beru! Uncle Owen!
Luke stumbles around in a daze looking for his aunt and uncle. Suddenly he comes upon their smoldering remains.
LUKE
No!
D42 INT. MAIN CONTROL ROOM – DEATH STAR
Darth Vader and the regional Governor Moff Tarkin stand before a huge screen that shows a million stars. Admiral Motti and General Tagge are standing with them.
MOTTI
The final check out is completed and all systems are operational. What course shall we set?
VADER
She has a great deal of control. Her resistance to the mind probe is considerable. It will still be some time before we can extract any useful information from her.
TARKIN
Perhaps she would respond to an alternative form of persuasion.
VADER
What do you mean?
TARKIN
I think it is time we demonstrated the full power of this station. Set your course for Alderaan…
E42. EXT. MESA CANYON – SANDCRAWLER – DAY
There is a large bonfire of dead Jawas blazing in front of the sandcrawler as Ben and the robots finish burning the dead. Luke drives up in the speeder and Ben walks over to him.
BEN
I share your sorrow, Luke. There is nothing you could have done, had you been there, you’d now be dead and the droids would be in the hands of the Empire. The Force is with you.
LUKE
I’ll take you to the spaceport at Mos Eisley. I want to go with you to Alderaan. There is nothing here for me now… I want to learn the ways of the Force – I want to become a Jedi like my father.
43-45. OMITTED
46. EXT. TATOOINE – WASTELAND – DAY
The speeder zooms across the desert wasteland.
47. EXT. TATOOINE – BLUFF OVERLOOKING MOS EISLEY SPACEPORT – DAY
The speeder stops on a bluff overlooking the spaceport at MOS EISLEY. It is a haphazard array of low gray concrete structures and semidomes. A harsh gale blows across the stark canyon floor. Luke adjusts his goggles and walks to the edge of the craggy bluff where Ben is standing.
BEN
Well, there it is, Mos Eisley Spaceport. You won’t find a more wretched hive of scum and villainy. The Empire is on the alert, so we must be very cautious.
Ben looks over Luke who gives the old Jedi a determined
smile.
LUKE
I’m ready for anything.
48. EXT. MOS EISLEY SPACEPORT – STREET – LATE AFTERNOON
The speeder is stopped on a crowded street by several combat hardened stormtroopers who look over the two robots. A trooper questions Luke.
TROOPER
How long have you had these droids?
LUKE
Three of four seasons.
BEN
They’re up for sale, if you want them.
TROOPER
Did you come from the south?
LUKE
Ahh .. No, no .. We live in the west… near Bestine.
TROOPER
Let me see your identification…
Luke becomes very nervous as he fumbles to find his I.D. Ben speaks to the trooper in a very controlled voice.
BEN
You don’t need to see his identification.
TROOPER
I don’t need to see your identification.
BEN
These aren’t the Droids you’re looking for.
TROOPER
These aren’t the Droids we’re looking for.
BEN
He can go about his business.
TROOPER
You can go about your business.
Luke looks relieved but astonished.
BEN (to Luke)
Move along.
TROOPER
Move along.
49. EXT. MOS EISLEY SPACEPORT – CANTINA – DAY
The speeder pulls up in front of a rundown blockhouse cantina on the outskirts of the spaceport. Various strange forms of transport, including several unusual beasts of burden are parked outside the bar. A Jawa runs up and begins to fondle the speeder. Luke shoos the vile little creature away.
THREEPIO
I can’t abide those Jawas. Disgusting creatures.
LUKE
(to Ben)
I can’t understand how we got by those troops, I thought we were dead.
BEN
The Force is a strong influence on the mind… it’s a powerful ally but as you come to know the force, you will discover it can also be a danger…
LUKE
Do you really think we can find a pilot who will take us to Alderaan?
BEN
Most of the good freighter pilots frequent here but watch you step, this place can be a little rough.
50. INT. MOS EISLEY CANTINA – DAY
The young adventurer and his two mechanical servants follow Ben Kenobi into the smoke-filled cantina. The murky, moldy den is filled with a startling array of weird and exotic alien creatures and monsters, laughing at the long metallic bar. At first the sight is horrifying. One-eyed, thousand-eyed, slimy, furry, scaly tentacles and claws huddle over drinks. Ben and Luke move to an empty spot at the bar near a group of repulsive but human Corellian pirates. A huge rough-looking BARTENDER comes over to Luke and the robots.
BARTENDER
We don’t serve “their kind” in here.
Luke still recovering from the shock of seeing so many outlandish creatures doesn’t quite catch the Bartender’s drift.
LUKE
What?
BARTENDER
Your “droids” will have to wait outside. We don’t serve ‘em here.
Luke looks to old Ben who is busy talking to one of the Corellian pirates. He notices that several of the gruesome creatures along the bar are giving him a very unfriendly glare.
LUKE
Yes, of course. I’m so sorry.
(Turns to Threepio)
You’d better stay with the speeder. We don’t want any trouble.
THREEPIO
I heartily agree with you sir.
Threepio and his stubby partner go outside and most of the creatures at the bar go back to their drinks. Ben is standing next to CHEWBACCA, an eight foot tall savage-looking creature resembling a huge gray bushbaby monkey with fierce “baboon-like” fangs. His large yellow eyes dominate a fur-covered face and soften his otherwise awesome appearance. Over his matted, furry body he wears two chrome bandoliers, a flak jacket painted in a bizarre camouflage pattern, brown cloth shorts and little else. He is a two hundred year old WOOKIEE and a sight to behold. Ben speaks to the wookiee pointing to Luke several times during his conversation and the huge creature suddenly lets out a horrifying laugh. Luke is more than a little bit disconcerted and pretends not to hear the conversation between Ben and the giant wookiee. He is terrified but tries not to show it. He quietly sips his drink, looking over the crowd for a more sympathetic ear or whatever.
A large, multiple-eyed CREATURE gives Luke a rough shove.
CREATURE
Negola dewaghi wooldugger?!?
The hideous freak is obviously drunk. Luke tries to ignore the creature and turns back to his drink. A short, grubby HUMAN and an even smaller RODENT-like beast join the belligerent monstrosity.
HUMAN
He doesn’t like you.
LUKE
I’m sorry.
HUMAN
I don’t like you either.
The big creature is getting agitated and yells some unintelligible gibberish at the now rather nervous young adventurer.
HUMAN (cont’d)
Don’t insult us. You just watch yourself. We’re wanted men. I have the death sentence on twelve systems.
LUKE
I’ll be careful then.
HUMAN
You’ll be dead.
The rodent lets out a loud grunt and everything at the bar moves away. Luke tries to remain cool but it isn’t easy. His three adversaries ready their weapons. Old Ben moves in behind Luke.
BEN
This little one isn’t worth the effort. Come let me buy you something…
A powerful blow from the unpleasant creature sends the young would-be Jedi sailing across the room, crashing through tables and breaking a large jug filled with a foul-looking liquid. With a blood-curdling shriek, the monster draws a wicked chrome laser pistol from his belt and levels it at old Ben.. The bartender panics.
BARTENDER
No blasters! No blasters!
With an astounding agility, Old Ben’s laser sword sparks to
life and in a flash an arm lies on the floor. The rodent is
cut in two and the giant, multiple-eyed creature lies double, cut from chin to groin. Ben carefully and precisely turns off his laser sword and replaces it on his utility belt. Luke, shaking and totally amazed at the old man’s abilities, attempts to stand. The entire fight has lasted only a matter of seconds. The cantina goes back to normal, although Ben is given a respectable amount of room at the bar. Luke, rubbing his bruised head, approaches the old man with new awe.
BEN
This is Chewbacca, he’s first-mate on a ship that might suit our needs.
ZA50. EXT. MOS EISLEY CANTINA STREET DAY
Threepio paces in front of the cantina as Artoo carries on an electronic conversation with another little red R-2 unit.
THREEPIO
What could be taking them so long?
A patron comes out of the cantina and approaches two stormtroopers in the street.
THREEPIO
I don’t like the looks of this.
ZB50. INT. MOS EISLEY CANTINA – DAY
Luke is still giddy and downs a fresh drink as he follows Ben and Chewbacca to a booth where HAN SOLO is sitting. He is a tough James Dean style starpilot about thirty years old. A mercenary in a starship, simple, sentimental and cocksure of himself. A lovely young alien girl has her arms around him but the young space rogue sends her bouncing on her way as the group approaches.
HAN
You’re pretty handy with that saber old man, not often one sees that kind of sword play on this side of the galaxy. I’m Han Solo, Captain of the Millennium Falcon. Chewie tells me you’re looking for passage to the Alderaan system.
BEN
Yes indeed. If it’s a fast ship.
HAN
Fast ship! You mean you’ve never heard of the Millennium Falcon?
BEN
(amused)
Should I?
HAN
It’s the ship that made the Kessel run in less than 12 par-sec’s! I’ve outrun Imperial starships, not local bulk-cruisers mind you. These are the big Corellian ships I’m talking about. I think she’s fast enough for you old man. What’s your cargo?
BEN
No questions. Is it local trouble?
BEN
Let’s just say we’d like to avoid any Imperial entanglements.
HAN
These days, that can be a real trick. And it will cost you a little extra. All in… about ten thousand… in advance.
LUKE
Ten thousand! We could almost buy our own ship for that.
HAN
But could you fly it?
LUKE
(Insulted – starts to get up)
You bet I could. I’m not such a bad pilot myself… I don’t…
BEN
(Sits Luke down)
We haven’t that much with us. But, we could pay you two thousand now, plus another fifteen when we reach Alderaan.
Han ponders this for a few moments.
HAN
That’s seventeen… alright. You’ve got yourselves a ship. Docking Bay 94. We can take off as soon as you’re ready… looks like someone’s taking an interest in your handi-craft.
Ben and Luke turn around to see four Imperial stormtroopers looking at the dead bodies and asking the bartender some questions. The Bartender points to the booth. The stormtroopers look over at it but Luke and Ben are gone. The bartender shrugs his shoulders in puzzlement.
A50. EXT. MOS EISLEY STREET CANTINA
Luke and Ben secure Artoo to the back of the speeder.
BEN
If the speed of Solo’s ship is as fast as his boasting, we should do well.
LUKE
But it will be expensive.
BEN
I’m afraid you’ll have to sell your speeder.
LUKE
It’s all right. I don’t think I will ever come back to this planet.
AA50. INT. CANTINA – MOS EISLEY
The stormtroopers walk past Han and Chewbacca giving them both a careful check out. Han turns to the giant Wookiee.
HAN
Chewie, this charter could save out neck. Seventeen thousand! Those two really must be desperate.
As Han and Chewbacca slide out of the booth, a slimy purple-faced alien with a short trunk nose pokes a gun in Han’s side. He speaks with an electronically translated voice.
ALIEN
Going somewhere, Solo?
HAN
As a matter of fact, I was just going to see your boss. Tell Jabba that I have his money.
ALIEN
That’s what you said yesterday, but it’s too late… I’m not going back to Jabba with another one of your stories.
HAN
But I’ve got the money this time!
ALIEN
Then I’ll take it now.
Han sits down and the alien sits across from him holding the gun on him.
HAN
I haven’t got it here with me. Tell Jabba…
ALIEN
It’s too late I think. Jabba would rather have your ship.
HAN
Over my dead body.
ALIEN
That’s the idea, Solo. You will come outside with me or must I finish it here?
HAN
I don’t think they’d like another killing in here.
ALIEN
They’d hardly notice… get up. I’ve been looking forward to this for a long time…
HAN
I bet you have…
Suddenly the slimy alien disappears in a blinding flash of light. Han pulls his smoking gun from beneath the table as the other patrons look on in bemused amazement.
HAN
… but it will take a lot more than the likes of you to finish me off…
Han gets up and starts out of the cantina, flipping the bartender some coins as he leaves.
HAN
Sorry for the mess…
B50. OMITTED
C50. EXT. MOS EISLEY SPACEPORT – ALLEYWAY
Four heavily armed stormtroopers move menacingly along a narrow slum alleyway crowded with darkly-clad creatures hawking exotic goods in dingy little stalls. Men, monsters and robots crouch in waste-filled doorways whispering and hiding from the hot winds. One of the troopers checks a tightly locked door and moves on down the alleyway. The door slides open a crack and Threepio peeks out. Artoo is barely visible in the background.
THREEPIO
I would rather have gone with Master Luke then stay here with you. I don’t quite know what all the trouble is about, but I’m sure it must be your fault.
(Artoo beeps)
You watch your language.
53. EXT. ALLEYWAY – MOS EISLEY STREET – USED SPEEDER LOT
Ben and Luke are standing in a sleazy used-speeder lot, talking with a tall grotesque, insect-like used-speeder dealer. Strange exotic bodies and spindly legged beasts pass by as the insect concludes the sale by giving Luke some coins.
LUKE
He says it’s the best he can do. Since the XP-38 came out, they just aren’t in demand.
BEN
It will be sufficient. I’ve got enough to cover the rest.
Ben and Luke leave the speeder-lot and walk down the dusty alleyway past a small robot herding a bunch of anteater-like creatures. Luke turns and gives one last forlorn look at his faithful speeder as he rounds a corner. A darkly clad creature moves out of the shadows as they pass and watches them as they disappear down another alley.
AA53. INT. DOCKING BAY 94 – DAY
Jabba the Hut and a half dozen grisly pirates and purple aliens stand in the middle of the docking bay. Jabba is the grossest of the salivering hulks and his scarred face is a grim testimonial to his prowess as a vicious killer.
JABBA
Come on out Solo!
A voice from directly behind the pirates startles them and they turn around to see Han Solo and the giant Wookiee Chewbacca standing behind them with no weapons in sight.
HAN
I’ve been waiting for you Jabba.
JABBA
I expected you would be.
HAN
I’m not the type to run.
JABBA
(Fatherly-smooth)
Han, my boy, there are times when you disappoint me… why haven’t you paid me? And why did you have to fry poor Greedo like that… after all we’ve been through together.
HAN
You sent Greedo to blast me.
JABBA
(Mock surprise)
Han, why you’re the best smuggler in the business. You’re too valuable to fry. He was only relaying my concern at your delays. He wasn’t going to blast you.
HAN
I think he thought he was. Next time don’t send one of those twerps. If you’ve got something to say to me, come see me yourself.
JABBA
Han, Han! If only you hadn’t had to dump that shipment of spice… you understand I just can’t make an exception. Where would I be if every pilot who smuggled for me dumped their shipment at the first sign of an Imperial starship? It’s not good business.
HAN
You know, even I get boarded sometimes, Jabba. I had no choice, but I’ve got a charter now and I can pay you back, plus a little extra. I just need some more time.
JABBA
(To his men)
Put your blasters away. Han, my boy, I’m only doing this because you’re the best and I need you. So, for an extra, say… twenty percent I’ll give you a little more time… but this is it. If you disappoint me again, I’ll put a price on your head, so large you won’t be able to go near a civilized system for the rest of your life.
HAN
Jabba, I’ll pay you because it’s my pleasure.
BA53. INT. DEATH STAR – CORRIDOR
Darth Vader and a stormtrooper commander stride down one of the long Death Star corridors, followed by several aides.
COMMANDER
We’ve started to search the spaceport at Mos Eisley. It’s just a matter of time before we’ve found the droids.
VADER
Send in more men if you have to. It’s her hope of that data being used against us that is the pillar of her resistance to the mind probe.
COMMANDER
Until then we must waste our time with Governor Tarkin’s foolish plan to break her.
CA53. OMITTED
A53. OMITTED
54. OMITTED
55. OMITTED
56. EXT. DOCKING PORT ENTRY – ALLEYWAY
Chewbacca waits restlessly at the entrance to Docking Bay 94. Ben, Luke and the robots make their way up the street. Chewbacca jabbers excitedly and signals for them to hurry. The darkly clad creature has followed them from the speeder lot. He stops in a nearby doorway and speaks into a small transmitter.
57. OMITTED
58. INT. MOS EISLEY SPACEPORT – DOCKING BAY 94
Chewbacca leads the group into the giant dirt pit that is Docking Bay 94. Resting in the middle of the huge hole is a large, round, beat-up, pieced together hunk of junk that could only loosely be called a starship.
LUKE
What a piece of junk. This ship couldn’t possibly go above sub-light speeds.
The tall figure of Han Solo comes down the boarding ramp.
HAN
She may not look like much, but she’s got it where it counts. I’ve added some special modifications myself. She’ll make point five beyond light speed.
Luke scratches his head, it’s obvious he’s not too sure about all this. Chewbacca rushes up the ramp and urges the others to follow.
HAN
We’re a little rushed, so if you’ll hurry aboard, we’ll be off.
The group rushes up the gang plank, passes a grinning Han Solo.
AA58. INT. PIRATE STARSHIP
Chewbacca settles into the pilot’s chair and starts the mighty engines of the starship.
A58. EXT. MOS EISLEY SPACEPORT – ALLEYWAY
Eight Imperial Stormtroopers rush up to the darkly clad creatures and he points to the door of the docking bay. The troops hold their guns at the ready and charge down the docking bay entrance.
B58. INT. DOCKING BAY 94 – MOS EISLEY SPACEPORT
Han Solo looks up and sees the Imperial Stormtroopers rushing into the docking bay. Several of the troopers fire at Han as he ducks into the spaceship.
HAN
Chewie! Deflector shields quick! Get us out of here.
Han draws his laser pistol and pops off a couple of shots which force the stormtroopers to dive for safety. The starship engines whine as Han hits the release button that slams the overhead entry shut.
C58. OMITTED
59. EXT. MOS EISLEY SPACEPORT – STREET – MORNING
The half dozen stormtroopers at a check point hear the general alarm and look to the sky as the huge starship rises above the dingy slum dwellings and quickly disappears into the morning sky.
60. INT. PIRATE STARSHIP – COCKPIT
Han climbs into the pilot’s chair next to Chewbacca who chatters away as he points to something on the radar scope.
HAN
It looks like an Imperial cruiser. Our passengers must be hotter than I thought. Try to hold it off, angle the deflectors until I can make the calculations for the jump to light speed.
Han frantically types information into the ship’s computer. Little Artoo appears momentarily at the cockpit doorway, makes a few beeping remarks, then scurries away.
61. EXT. SPACE TATOOINE ORBIT
Pan with the pirate starship as it races away from the yellow planet, Tatooine, followed by one – two – three huge Imperial stardestroyers.
62. INT. PIRATE STARSHIP – COCKPIT
Luke and Ben make their way into the crowded cockpit where Han continues his calculations.
HAN
Stay sharp! We’ve got two more coming in, they’re going to cut us off.
LUKE
(Sarcastically)
Can’t you outrun them? I thought you said this thing was fast.
HAN
Watch your mouth kid, or you’ll find yourself floating home. We’ll be safe enough once we’ve made the jump into hyperspace. They can’t track us accurately at light speeds. Plus I know a few maneuvers that should lose them.
The ship shudders as an explosion flashes outside the window.
HAN
Here’s where it gets interesting.
BEN
Well, how long before you can make the jump to light speed?
HAN
It’ll take a few minutes for the navi-computer to calculate the coordinates.
LUKE
A few minutes!! At the rate they’re gaining….
HAN
Traveling through hyper-space isn’t like dusting crops, boy. Without calculations we could pass right through a star or bounce to near a supernova. And that would end our trip real quick.
The ship is now constantly battered with laser fire as a red warning light begins to flash.
LUKE
What’s that?
HAN
We’re losing a deflector shield. Better strap yourselves in, we’re ready to make the jump to light speed.
63. INT. MAIN HOLD AREA
The ship rocks violently as Threepio holds on to his seat for dear life. Artoo sways to and fro under the thundering impact of the incoming laser blasts.
THREEPIO
Was this trip really necessary? I forgot how much I hate space travel.
Luke and Ben enter and strap themselves into their chairs.
64 OMITTED
65 OMITTED
66. INT. DEATH STAR – CONTROL ROOM
Admiral Motti enters the quiet control room and bows before
Governor Tarkin, who stands before the huge wall screen
displaying a small green planet.
MOTTI
We are entering the Alderaan star system. We await your order.
Vader enters with Leia and two stormtroopers.
LEIA
Governor Tarkin, I should’ve expected to find you holding Vader’s leash. I recognized your foul stench when I was brought on board.
TARKIN
Charming to the last. You don’t know how hard I found it signing the order to terminate your life.
LEIA
I’m surprised you had the courage to take the responsibility yourself.
TARKIN
Princess Leia, before your execution I would like you to be my guest at a ceremony that will make this battle station operational. No star system will dare oppose the Emperor now.
LEIA
The more you tighten you grip Tarkin, the more star systems will slip through your fingers.
TARKIN
Not after we demonstrate this battle station’s power. In a way, you yourself have determined the choice of the planet that will be destroyed first. Since you are reluctant to provide us with the location of the rebel stronghold, I have chosen to test the station’s destructive power, on your home planet of Alderaan.
LEIA
No! Alderaan is peaceful. We have no weapons, you can’t…
TARKIN
You would prefer another target? A military target? Then name the system. I grow tired of asking this, so it will be the last time. Where is the rebel base?
Leia overhears an intercom announcing the approach to Alderaan.
LEIA
(Softly)
Dantooine… they’re on Dantooine.
TARKIN
There, you see Lord Vader? She can be reasonable.
(To the others)
Proceed with the operation. You may fire when ready.
LEIA
What?
TARKIN
Dantooine is too remote to be an effective demonstration… we will deal with your rebel friends soon enough.
The small green planet is blown into space dust. Princess Leia is seething with rage.
LEIA
And you call yourselves humans.
TARKIN
You are far too trusting… you will shortly see your hopeless rebellion vanish in a similar fashion.
67. INT. PIRATE STARSHIP – MAIN HOLD AREA
Ben falters, seems almost faint, then rubs his forehead as if he has a headache.
LUKE
Are you alright? What is it? What’s wrong?
BEN
I feel a great ebbing in The Force, the cry of a billion voices stopping all at once. It’s the feeling of death. Something terrible has happened….
Ben seems to drift into a trance, then fixes his gaze on Luke.
BEN
Continue with your exercise.
Han enters and begins checking charts and various computer readouts.
HAN
You can stop worrying about your troubles with those Imperial slugs. I told you I’d lose them.
(Nobody says anything)
Don’t everybody thank me at once. Anyway, I calculate our arrival on Alderaan at of two hundred.
Chewbacca and the two robots sit around a lighted table covered with many small hologram figures. Each side of the table has a small computer monitor embedded in it. Chewbacca seems very pleased with himself as he rests his lanky fur-covered arms over his head. Artoo immediately reaches up and taps the computer with his stubby claw hand, causing one of the hologram figures to walk to a new square. A sudden frown crosses Chewbacca’s face and he begins yelling gibberish at the tiny robot. Threepio intercedes on behalf of his small companion and begins to argue with the huge wookiee.
THREEPIO
(To Chewie)
He made a fair move. Screaming about it can’t help you.
HAN
(To Threepio)
Let him have it. It’s not wise to upset a wookiee.
THREEPIO
But, sir, no one worries about upsetting a droid.
HAN
That’s because a droid doesn’t rip peoples arms out of their sockets when they lose… wookiees have been known to do that.
*THREEPIO
I see your point.
(To Artoo)
I suggest a new strategy, Artoo. Let… the wookiee… win.
Luke stands in the middle of the small hold area. He seems frozen in place, a humming laser sword held high over his head. Ben watches him from the corner, studying his movements. Han watches with a bit of smugness.
BEN
Remember, a Jedi warrior can feel The Force flowing from him.
LUKE
You mean that it controls your actions?
BEN
Partially, but it also obeys your commands.
Suspended at eye level, about ten feet in front of Luke, a chrome baseball covered with antenna hovers slowly in a wide arc. The ball floats to one side of the youth, then to the other. Suddenly it makes a lightning swift lunge and stops within a few feet of Luke’s face. Luke doesn’t move and the ball backs off. It slowly moves behind the boy, then makes another quick lunge, this time emitting a blood red laser beam as it attacks, hitting Luke in the leg causing him to tumble over. Han lets loose with a burst of laughter.
HAN
Hocus-pocus religion and ancient weapons are no substitute for a good blaster at your side.
LUKE
You don’t believe in The Force?
HAN
I’ve flown from one end of this galaxy to the other and I see a lot of strange things… too strange to believe that one all powerful force controls everything. No mystical energy field determines my destiny. I wouldn’t listen to him, he’s full of simple tricks and mischief.
BEN
I suggest you try it again, Luke. This time, let go your conscious self and act on your instinct.
Ben places a large helmet on Luke’s head which covers his eyes.
LUKE
But now I can’t even see! So how can I fight?
BEN
Your eyes can deceive you, don’t trust them.
Han skeptically shakes his head as Ben throws the seeker into the air. The ball shoots straight up in the air, then drops like a rock. Luke swings the laser sword around blindly missing the seeker, which fires off a laser bolt which hits Luke square on the seat of the pants. He lets out a painful yell and attempts to hit the seeker.
BEN
Stretch out with your feelings, in the dark.
Luke stands in one place, seemingly frozen. The seeker makes a dive at Luke and he incredibly manages to deflect the bolt. The ball ceases firing and moves back to its original position.
BEN
You see, you can do it!
HAN
I’d call it luck.
BEN
In my experience there is no such thing as luck.
HAN
Good against “remotes” is one thing. Good against the living is another.
A small light on the far side of the cabin begins flashing. Chewbacca notices it and calls out to Han.
HAN
We’re coming up on Alderaan.
Han and Chewbacca head back to the cockpit.
LUKE
You know, I did feel something. I could almost see the “remote.”
BEN
That’s good. You have taken your first step into a larger world.
A67. INT. PIRATE STARSHIP – COCKPIT
The cockpit is alive with humming meters and softly burning readouts. Han and Chewbacca are busy at the controls.
HAN
Stand by, here we go… cut in the sub-light engines.
Han pulls back on a control lever and, outside the cockpit window, stars begin streaking past, slow, then stop. Suddenly the starship begins to shudder and then violently shake about. Asteroids begin to race toward them battering the sides of the ship.
HAN
What the….
The giant wookiee flips off several controls and seems very cool in the emergency. Luke makes his way into the bouncing cockpit.
LUKE
What’s going on?
HAN
We’ve come out of hyper-space into a meteor storm or some kind of asteroid collision. It doesn’t appear on any of my charts. Our position is correct… except… Alderaan?
LUKE
What about it? Where is it?
HAN
That’s what I’m talking about. It’s not there. Alderaan’s been… blown away… totally.
Ben moves into the cockpit behind Luke as the ship begins to settle down.
LUKE
Destroyed? How?
BEN
The Empire.
HAN
But their entire starfleet couldn’t have destroyed the whole planet. It would take a thousand ships with more fire power than…
A signal light starts flashing on the control panel and a muffled alarm starts humming.
HAN
It’s another ship.
LUKE
Maybe they know what happened.
BEN
It’s an Imperial fighter.
Chewbacca barks his concern. A huge explosion bursts outside the cockpit window, shaking the ship violently. A tiny finned Imperial tie fighter races past the cockpit window.
LUKE
It followed us!
HAN
It couldn’t have.
BEN
No. It’s a short-range fighter.
HAN
But where’d it come from? There are no bases near here.
LUKE
It’s leaving in a big hurry. If it identifies us we’re in big trouble.
HAN
Not if I can help it! Chewie, jam it’s transmission.
BEN
It would be best to let it go. It’s too far out of range.
HAN
Not for long….
68-70. OMITTED
71. EXT. PIRATE STARSHIP
(B22)
The pirate starship zooms over the camera and away into the vastness of space after the Imperial tie fighter.
72. EXT. IMPERIAL TIE FIGHTER – SPACE
(B23)
The Imperial tie fighter darts overhead, quickly followed by the huge pirate starship.
73 INT. COCKPIT PIRATE STARSHIP
(B24)
The tension mounts as the pirate starship gains on the tiny fighter. In the distance one of the stars becomes brighter until it is obvious the tie ship is heading for it. Ben stands behind Chewbacca.
BEN
A fighter of that size could never be this deep into space on its own.
LUKE
It must have gotten lost, been part of a convoy or something…
HAN
Well he won’t be around to tell anyone about us.
74. EXT. SPACE – PIRATE STARSHIP – IMPERIAL FIGHTER
(B26)
The Imperial fighter is losing ground to the larger pirate starship as they race toward camera and disappear overhead.
A74. INT. PIRATE STARSHIP – COCKPIT
(B27)
The distant star can now be distinguished as a small moon or planet.
LUKE
He’s heading for that small moon.
HAN
I think I can stop him before he gets there… he’s almost in range.
The small moon begins to take on the appearance of a monstrous spherical battle station.
B74 OMITTED
C74 INT. PIRATE STARSHIP – COCKPIT
(B27 & B27A)
BEN
That’s no moon, it’s a space station.
HAN
But it’s too big to be a space station.
LUKE
I have a very bad feeling about this.
BEN
Turn the ship around!
HAN
Yes, I think you’re right. Full reverse!
The pirate starship shudders and the tie fighter accelerates away toward the gargantuan battle station.
D74. OMITTED
E74. INT. PIRATE STARSHIP – COCKPIT
(B28 & B28A)
The giant wookiee chatters something to Han.
HAN
Lock in the auxiliary power!
The control board begins to go wild. The Death Star grows
larger as they continue their approach.
LUKE
Why are we still moving toward it?
HAN
We’re caught in a tractor beam. It’s dragging us in.
LUKE
You mean there’s nothing you can…?
HAN
I’m full power, kid! It’s no use. I’m going to have to shut down. But they’re not going to suck me up like so much space dust without a fight!
Han starts to get out of his pilot’s chair. Ben Kenobi puts a hand on his shoulder.
BEN
If it is a fight you cannot win… there are many alternatives to fighting.
75. EXT. PIRATE STARSHIP – DEATH STAR
(B28 & B31)
As the battered pirate starship is towed closer to the awesome metal moon, the immense size of the massive battle station becomes staggering. Running along the equator of the gigantic sphere is a mile high band of huge docking ports into which the helpless pirateship is dragged.
76. INT. DEATH STAR – CONFERENCE ROOM
Imperial Officer Cass stands before Governor Tarkin and the evil Dark Lord Darth Vader.
OFFICER CASS
The scout ships have reached Dantooine. They have found the remains of a rebel base… but they estimate it has been deserted for sometime. They are conducting an extensive search of the surrounding system.
TARKIN
She lied! She lied to us!
VADER
I told you she would never consciously betray the rebellion… unless she thought she could destroy this station in the process.
TARKIN
Terminate her immediately!
VADER
And lose your only link to the rebel base? She can still be of value to us.
TARKIN
You’ll get nothing more out of her. I’ll find that hidden fortress if I have to destroy every star system in this sector.
A quiet beeping tone interrupts the governor.
VOICE
We’ve captured a freighter entering the remains of the Alderaan system. It’s markings match those of the ship that blasted it’s way out of the quarantine on Mos Eisley.
VADER
They must have been trying to return the stolen data tapes to the princess… we might be of some help.
77. INT. DEATH STAR – MAIN FORWARD BAY
The pirate starship rests in a huge hangar bay of the Death Star. Thirty stormtroopers stand at attention in front of the lowered main ramp to the starship. Vader and a commander approach the troops as an officer and several heavily armed troops exit the spacecraft.
OFFICER
There is no one aboard. According to the ships log, the crew abandoned ship right after take-off. It must have been a decoy. Several of the escape pods have been jettisoned.
VADER
Did you find any droid?
OFFICER
No sir. If there were any, they must have also jettisoned.
VADER
Send a scanning crew on board, I want every part of this ship checked. I sense something… a presence I haven’t felt since…
Vader turns quickly and exits the hangar.
78. OMITTED
79. OMITTED
80. INT. PIRATE STARSHIP – HALLWAY
A lone trooper runs through the hallway heading for the exit. In a few moments all is quiet. The muffled sounds of a distant officer giving orders finally fade. Two floor panels suddenly pop up revealing Han Solo and Luke. Ben Kenobi sticks his head out of a third locker.
LUKE
Lucky you had these compartments.
HAN
I use them for smuggling. I never expected to smuggle myself in them. This is ridiculous. It isn’t going to work. Even if I could take off, we’d never get past that tractor beam.
BEN
You leave that to me.
HAN
I was afraid you’d say that. You’re a damn fool.
BEN
Who is more foolish… the fool or the man who follows him?
Han shakes his head, muttering to himself.
81. INT. DEATH STAR – MAIN FORWARD BAY
The two crewmen carry a heavy box on board the ship, past the two stormtroopers guarding either side of the ramp.
STORMTROOPER
The ship’s all yours. If the scanners pick up anything, report it immediately.
The crewmen enter the pirate starship and a loud crashing sound is followed by a voice calling out to the guards below.
HAN
Hey down there, could you give us a hand with this?
The stormtroopers enter the ship and a second loud crashing sound is heard.
82. INT. DEATH STAR – FORWARD BAY – COMMAND OFFICE
In a very small command office near the entrance to the pirate starship, a gantry officer looks out his window and notices the guards are missing. He speaks into the comlink.
GANTRY OFFICER
TX-421. Why aren’t you at your post? TX-421, do you copy?
A stormtrooper comes down the ramp of the pirate starship and waves to the gantry officer and points to his ear indicating his comlink is not working. The gantry officer shakes his head in disgust and heads for the door, giving his aide an annoyed look.
GANTRY OFFICER
Take over. We’ve got another bad transmitter. I’m going to see what I can do.
As the officer approaches the door, it slides open revealing the towering Chewbacca. The gantry officer in a momentary state of shock, stumbles backward. With a bone-chilling howl, the giant wookiee flattens the officer with one blow. The aide immediately reaches for his pistol, but is blasted by Han, dressed as an Imperial stormtrooper. Ben and the robots enter the room, quickly followed by Luke, also dressed as a stormtrooper.
LUKE
Between his howling and your blasting everything in sight, it’s a wonder the entire station doesn’t know we’re here.
HAN
Bring them on, I prefer a straight fight to all this sneaking around.
Ben feeds some information into the computer and a map of the city appears on the monitor. He begins to inspect it carefully. Threepio and Artoo look over the control panel. Artoo finds something that makes him whistle wildly.
BEN
Plug him in. He should be able to read the entire Imperial computer network.
Artoo punches his claw arm into the computer socket and the vast Imperial brain network comes to life, feeding information to the little robot. After a few moments, he beeps something.
THREEPIO
The tractor beam is coupled to the main reactor in seven locations. Most of the data is restricted, but he’ll try to get what there is to come through on the monitor.
Ben studies the data on the monitor readout.
BEN
I don’t think there is any way you boys can help in this. I must go alone.
HAN
Whatever you say. I’ve done more than I bargained for on this trip already. I think putting that tractor beam out of commission is going to take more than your magic, old man.
LUKE
I want to go with you.
BEN
Don’t be impatient, young Luke. This requires skills you haven’t yet mastered. Your destiny lies along a different path. Stay and watch over the droids. They must be delivered to the rebel forces or many more star systems will meet the same fate as Alderaan. Trust your feelings Luke. The Force is with you.
Ben adjusts his laser sword on his belt and silently steps out of the command office and disappears down a long gray hallway. Chewbacca makes some noises and Han shakes his head in agreement.
HAN
You said it, Chewie.
(To Luke)
Where did you dig up that old fossil?
LUKE
Ben is a great man.
HAN
Great at getting us into trouble.
LUKE
I didn’t hear you give any ideas…
HAN
Anything would be better than just waiting here for them to pick us up…
Suddenly Artoo begins to whistle and beep a blue streak. Luke goes over to him.
LUKE
What is it?
THREEPIO
I’m afraid I don’t understand myself sir. He says “I found her” and keeps repeating, “she’s here”.
LUKE
Who… who has he found?
Artoo whistles a frantic reply.
THREEPIO
Princess Leia.
LUKE
The princess? She’s here!?
HAN
Princess? What’s going on?
LUKE
Where? Where is she?
THREEPIO
Level five. Detention block AA-23… I’m afraid she’s scheduled to be terminated.
LUKE
No! We’ve got to do something.
HAN
What are you talking about?
LUKE
The droids belong to her. She’s the one in the message. We’ve got to help her.
HAN
Don’t get any funny ideas. The old man said to wait here.
LUKE
But he didn’t know she was here. If we could just figure a way into that detention block.
HAN
I’m not going anywhere.
LUKE
If we don’t do something, they’re going to execute her! A minute ago you said you didn’t want to just wait here and be captured… and now all you want to do is stay.
HAN
Marching into the detention area is not what I had in mind.
*LUKE
But they’re going to execute her!
*HAN
Better here than me…
*LUKE
I’ve seen her… she’s beautiful!
*HAN
So’s life.
*LUKE
She’s rich.
*HAN
So… uh… rich?
*LUKE
Yes, powerful and rich and if we were to rescue her, the reward would be more wealth than you can imagine.
*HAN
I don’t know… I can imagine quite a bit.
*LUKE
You’ll get it!
Han looks at Chewie who grunts a short grunt.
HAN
(Shrugging to Chewie)
All right, you’d better be right about this. What’s your plan kid.
LUKE
Give me those binders and tell Chewbacca to come over here.
Han gives Luke the electric cuffs as Chewbacca comes over.
LUKE
(To Chewie)
Now, I’m going to put these on you and…
(Chewie growls hideously)
Now, Han is going to put these on you and…
Luke sheepishly hands the binders to Han.
HAN
Don’t worry, Chewie. I think I know what he has in mind.
The wookiee has a worried and frightened look on his face as Han binds him with electronic cuffs.
THREEPIO
Luke, sir! Pardon me for asking… but, ah… what should Artoo and I do if we’re discovered here.
HAN
Hope they don’t have blasters.
THREEPIO
That isn’t very reassuring.
Luke and Han put on their armored helmets and start off into the giant Imperial Death Star.
83. OMITTED
84. INT. DEATH STAR – DETENTION AREA – ELEVATOR TUBE
Han and Luke try to look inconspicuous in their armored suits as they wait for a vacuum elevator to arrive. Troops, bureaucrats and robots bustle about ignoring the trio completely. Only a few give the giant wookiee a curious glance. Finally a small elevator arrives and the trio enter. A bureaucrat races to get aboard also, but is signaled away by Han. The door to the pod-like vehicle slides closed and it takes off through a vacuum tube.
85 OMITTED
86 INT. DEATH STAR – MAIN HALLWAY
Several Imperial officers walk through the wide main passageway. They pass several stormtroopers and a robot similar to Threepio but with an insect face. At the far end of the hallway, a passing flash of Ben Kenobi appears, then disappears down a small hallway. His appearance was so fleeting that it is hard to tell if he was real or just an illusion. No one in the hallway seemed to notice him.
87 OMITTED
88 INT. DEATH STAR – DETENTION SECURITY AREA
The giant wookiee and his two guards enter the old gray security station. Guards and laser gates are everywhere. Han whispers to Luke under his breath.
HAN
This isn’t going to work.
LUKE
Why didn’t you say so before?
HAN
I think I did.
A tall, grim-looking officer approaches the trio.
OFFICER
Where are you going with this… thing?
Chewie growls a bit at the remark but Han nudges him to shut up.
LUKE
Prisoner transfer from block TS-138.
*OFFICER
I wasn’t notified. I’ll have to clear it.
The officer goes back to his console and begins to punch in the information. There are only three other troopers in the area. Luke and Han survey the situation, checking all of the alarms, laser gates and camera eyes. Han unfastens one of Chewbacca’s electronic cuffs and shrugs to Luke.
Suddenly Chewbacca throws up his hands and lets out with one of his ear-piercing howls. He grabs Han’s laser rifle.
*HAN
Look out! It’s loose! It’ll rip us all apart.
The startled guards are momentarily dumbfounded. Luke and Han have already pulled out their laser pistols and are blasting away at the terrifying wookiee. Their barrage of laser fire misses Chewbacca, but hits the camera eyes, laser gate controls and the Imperial guards. The officer is the last of the guards to fall under the laser fire, just as he is about to push the alarm system. Han rushes to the comlink system, which is screeching questions about what is going on. He quickly checks the computer readout.
*HAN
We’ve got to find out which cell this princess of yours is… here it is… cell 2187. I’ll hold them here.
Luke races down one of the cell corridors. Han speaks into the buzzing comlink.
*HAN
(Sounding official)
Everything is under control. Situation normal.
*INTERCOM VOICE
What happened?
*HAN
(Getting nervous)
Uh well… slight weapon malfunction. No problem now… we’re all fine thank you. How about you?
*INTERCOM VOICE
We’re sending a squad up.
*HAN
Uh… negative, negative. We have a reactor leak, give us a few minutes to lock it down. Large leak… very dangerous.
*INTERCOM VOICE
Who is this? What’s your operating…
Han blasts the comlink and it explodes.
*HAN
It was a boring conversation anyway.
(Yelling down the hall)
Luke! We’re going to have company!
89. INT. DEATH STAR – CELL ROW
Luke stops in front of one of the cells and blasts the door away with his laser pistol. When the smoke clears, Luke sees the dazzling young princess-senator, standing before him with an uncomprehending look on her face. Luke is stunned by her incredible beauty, and stands staring at her with his mouth hanging open.
LUKE
You’re even… more beautiful… than I
Luke doesn’t go on and there’s another pause as she stares at him.
LEIA
(Finally)
Aren’t you a little short for a stormtrooper?
Luke takes off his helmet, coming out of it.
LUKE
What? Oh… the uniform. I’ve come to rescue you. I’m Luke Skywalker.
LEIA
You’re who?
LUKE
I’ve come to rescue you. Ben Kenobi is with me… we’ve got your droids….
LEIA
Ben Kenobi! Where is he? Obi-wan!!
89A INT. CONFERENCE ROOM – DEATH STAR
Darth Vader paces the room as Governor Tarkin sits at the far end of the conference table.
VADER
He is here…
TARKIN
Obi-wan Kenobi! Impossible. What makes you think so?
VADER
A tremor in The Force. But the only time I’ve felt it such as this was in the presence of my old master.
TARKIN
Surely he must be dead by now.
VADER
Perhaps… it was just a feeling.
TARKIN
The Jedi are extinct… their fire has gone out of the universe. You, my friend, are all that’s left of their religion.
There is a quiet buzz on the comlink and Tarkin answers.
INTERCOM VOICE
We have an emergency alert in detention block AA-23
TARKIN
The princess!
VADER
Obi-wan is here… The Force is intense with him, I can feel it.
TARKIN
Put all sections on alert: if you’re right, he must not be allowed to escape.
VADER
Escape may not be Obi-wan Kenobi’s plan. He is the last of the Jedi… and the strongest. The danger must not be underestimated. I must face him alone.
90. OMITTED
91 INT. DEATH STAR – DETENTION AREA – DUNGEON – HALLWAY
A series of explosions knock a hole in the wall through which several Imperial troops begin to emerge. Han and Chewie fire their laser pistols at them through the smoke and flames. They turn and run down the cell hallway, meeting up with Luke and Leia running toward them.
HAN
We can’t go back that way!
LEIA
No, it looks like you’ve managed to cut off our only escape route.
HAN
(Sarcastically)
Begging your forgiveness, your highness… but maybe you’d prefer it back in your cell?
Luke takes a small comlink transmitter from his belt.
LUKE
See Threepio! See Threepio!
THREEPIO
Yes sir?
LUKE
We’ve been cut off! Are there any other ways out of the cell bay?… What was that? I didn’t copy!
92-93. OMITTED
94. INT. DEATH STAR – MAIN BAY GANTRY – CONTROL TOWER
Threepio paces the control center as little Artoo beeps and whistles a blue streak. Threepio yells into the small comlink transmitter.
THREEPIO
I said, all systems have been alerted to your presence, sir. The main entry seems to be the only way in our out… all other information on your sector is restricted.
Someone begins banging on the door.
THREEPIO
Oh, no!
95. OMITTED
96. INT. DEATH STAR – CELL ROW
Han and Chewbacca are barely able to keep the stormtroopers at bay at one end of the hallway. The laserfire is very intense and smoke fills the narrow cell corridor.
LUKE
There isn’t any other way out.
HAN
Well they’re closing in on us .. what now?
LEIA
This is some rescue… when you came in, didn’t you have a plan for getting out?
HAN
He’s the brains, sweetheart.
Luke manages a sheepish grin and shrugs his shoulders. The princess grabs Luke’s gun and fires at a small grate in the wall next to Han.
HAN
What do you think you’re doing?
LEIA
I’ve decided it’s up to me to save our skins. Get into that garbage chute flyboy!
She jumps through the narrow opening as Han and Chewbacca look on in amazement. Chewbacca says something.
HAN
No, Chewie… I don’t want you to rip her apart. I’ve got an odd feeling… either I’m beginning to like her, or I’m about to kill her. go on you furry oaf! I don’t care what you smell. We don’t have time to worry about it now.
He shoves the wookiee into the tiny opening and the wookiee disappears into the darkness followed quickly by Han. Luke fires off a couple of quick blasts, creating a smoky cover, then slides into the garbage chute and is gone.
A97. INT. DEATH STAR – GARBAGE ROOM
Luke has tumbled into a large room filled with garbage and muck. Han is already stumbling around looking for an exit. He finds a small hatchway and struggles to get it open. It won’t budge.
HAN
(Sarcastically)
The garbage chute was a wonderful idea. What an incredible smell you’ve discovered. Unfortunately these trash chambers are vacuum sealed.
He draws his laser pistol and fires at the hatch. The laserbolt ricochets wildly around the small metal room. Everyone dives for cover in the garbage as the bolt explodes almost on top of them. Leia climbs out of the garbage with a rather grim look on her face.
LEIA
Put that thing away or you’re going toget us all killed.
*HAN
Yes, your worship. But it won’t take long for them to figure out what happened to us. We had things well under control, until you led us down here.
LEIA
It could be worse…
A loud, horrible, inhuman moan works its way up from the murky depths. Chewbacca lets out a terrified howl and begins to back away. Han and Luke stand fast with their laser pistols drawn. The wookiee is cowering near one of the walls.
LUKE
What was that?
HAN
I’m not too sure.
LUKE
Something just moved past me. Watch out.
Suddenly Luke is yanked under the garbage.
LEIA
It’s got Luke! It took him under!
Luke surfaces with a a gasp of air and thrashing of limbs with a membrane tentacle wrapped around his throat.
LUKE
Blast it! Blast it!
HAN
I can’t even see it.
Luke is pulled back in to the muck by the slimy tentacle. Suddenly the walls of the garbage receptacle shudder and move in a couple of inches. Then everything is deathly quiet. Luke bobs back to the surface.
LEIA
What happened?
LUKE
I don’t know, it just disappeared…
HAN
I’ve got a very bad feeling about this.
Before anyone can say anything the walls begin to rumble and edge toward the rebels.
LEIA
Don’t just stand there. Try to brace it with something.
They place poles and long metal beams between the closing walls, but they are simply snapped and bent as the giant trash masher rumbles on. The situation doesn’t look too good. Luke pulls out his comlink.
LUKE
Threepio, come in Threepio.
98. OMITTED
99. INT. DEATH STAR – MAIN GANTRY – COMMAND OFFICER
A soft buzzer and the muted voice of Luke calling out for See Threepio can be heard on Threepio’s hand comlink which is sitting on the deserted computer console. Artoo and Threepio are nowhere in sight. Suddenly there is a great explosion and the door to the control tower flies across the floor. Four armed stormtroopers enter the chamber. A muffled voice can be heard coming from one do the supply cabinets.
THREEPIO
Help! Help! Let us out.
The troops inspect the dead bodies and release Threepio from the supply cabinets. Artoo follows his bronze companion out into the office.
THREEPIO
They’re madmen! They are heading for the prison level. They just left, if you hurry, you might catch them.
The troops hustle off down the hallway, leaving two guards to watch over the command office.
THREEPIO
All this excitement has over run the circuits in my counterpart here. If you don’t mind, I’d like to take him down to maintenance.
The guard nods and Threepio with little Artoo in tow hurries out the door.
A100. INT. GARBAGE ROOM – DEATH STAR
The room gets smaller and smaller. Chewie is whining and trying to hold a wall back with his giant paws. Han is leaning back against the other wall. Garbage is snapping and popping.
HAN
One thing for sure, we’re all going to be much thinner…
LUKE
What’s happened to Threepio?
LEIA
Try to blast the door again, it’s our only hope.
Han fires, but it is to no avail.
A101 INT. DEATH STAR – MAIN FORWARD BAY – SERVICE PANEL
Little Artoo carefully plugs his claw arm into a new wall socket and a complex array of electronic sounds spew from the tiny robot.
THREEPIO
Wait a minute, slow down!… That’s better. They’re where? They what? Oh no! They’re going to be mashed into conduit before this is over…
A102. INT. DEATH STAR – GARBAGE ROOM
The walls are only feet apart. Leia and Han are standing sideways. The princess is frightened. They look at each other, their heads turned sideways. Leia reaches out and takes Han’s hand and holds it tightly. She’s terrified and suddenly groans as she feels the first crushing pressure against her body.
Meanwhile, Luke is lying on his side, trying to keep his head above the rising ooze. Luke’s comlink begins to buzz and he rips it off his belt.
LUKE
Threepio!
THREEPIO
Are you there, sir? We’ve had some problems.
LUKE
Threepio, shut up! And shut down all the garbage mashers on the detention level… do you copy? Shut down the garbage…
A103. INT. DEATH STAR – MAIN FORWARD BAY – SERVICE PANEL
Threepio finishes and then holds his head in agony as he hears the incredible screaming and hollering from Luke’s comlink.
THREEPIO
No, shut them all down… hurry. Oh no! Listen to them… they’re dying Artoo! I curse this metal body of mine. I was not fast enough… it was my fault… my poor master… all of them… no, no, no!
A104 INT. DEATH STAR – GARBAGE ROOM
But the screaming and hollering is the sound of joyous relief. The walls have broken open and they move apart again.
LUKE (Into the comlink)
Artoo, Threepio, we are all right! Do you read me? You did fine!
Luke moves to the pressure hatch and scrapes some muck off a number.
LUKE
Open the pressure maintenance hatch on unit 366117891.
A105 INT. DEATH STAR – TRACTOR BEAM POWER GENERATOR TRENCH
Ben enters a humming service trench that powers the huge tractor beam. The trench seems to be a hundred miles deep. The clacking sound of huge switching devices can be heard. The old Jedi edges his way along a narrow ledge leading to a control panel that connects two large cables. He carefully makes several adjustments in the computer terminal and several lights on the board change from red to blue.
Suddenly a door behind Ben slides open and a detachment of stormtroopers marches to the power trench. Ben instantly slips into the shadows as an officer moves to within a few feet of him.
OFFICER
Secure this entry area until the alert is canceled.
B105 INT. DEATH STAR – UNUSED HALLWAY
The group exit the garbage room into a dusty unused hallway. The Dia Nogu bangs against the opening and a long slimy tentacle works its way out of the doorway searching for a victim. Han aims his pistol as Leia makes her way past Chewbacca.
LEIA
Somebody get the big hairy walking carpet out of my way. No, wait! They’ll hear.
Han fires at the doorway. The noise of the blast echoes relentlessly throughout the empty passageway. Luke simply shakes his head in disgust.
*LEIA
Listen, I don’t know who are, or where you came from, but from now on you do as I tell you.
Han is stunned at the command of the petite young girl.
*HAN
Listen, your holiness… let’s get something straight! I take orders from one person… me.
*LEIA
It’s a wonder you’re still alive.
Han watches her start away. He looks at Luke.
HAN
No reward in worth this.
They follow her moving swiftly down the deserted corridor.
106 INT. DEATH STAR – POWER TRENCH
A half dozen troops are milling around the entrance to the power trench. Ben carefully moves out of the shadows and into the main passageway past several stormtroopers. They don’t seem to notice him. He deftly slips past all of the troops and into a main passageway.
107 INT. DEATH STAR – HALLWAY
Luke, Han, Chewbacca and Leia run down an empty hallway and stop before a bay window overlooking the pirate starship. Luke takes out his pocket comlink.
LUKE
See Threepio… do you copy?
THREEPIO
I read you, sir.
LUKE
Are you safe?
THREEPIO
For the moment. We’re in the main hangar, across from the ship.
LUKE
We’re right above you. Stand by.
Han is watching the dozen or so troops moving in and out of the starship.
HAN
Getting back to the ship’s going to be like flying through the Five Fire Rings of Fornax.
*LEIA
You came in that thing? You are braver than I thought!
Han gives her a dirty look, and they start off down the hallway. They round a corner and run smack dab into twenty Imperial stormtroopers heading toward them. Both groups are taken by surprise and stop in their tracks. Before even thinking, Han draws his laser pistol and charges the troops, yelling at the top of his lungs. The troops are startled by this assault and start to back off. Han manages to blast off several shots before the rest flee in panic. Pleased with his prowess, Han starts after them, yelling back to Luke as he goes.
HAN
Get to the ship!
LUKE
Come back here .. where are you going?
Han has already rounded a corner and does not hear. Chewbacca, quite upset at his master’s disappearance, lets out a mighty howl and chases after him.
LEIA
Maybe I was too hard on him. He certainly has courage.
LUKE
I don’t know what good it will do us if he gets himself killed.
Luke is furious but doesn’t have time to think about it, for muted alarms begin to go off down on the hangar deck. Luke and Leia start off toward the starship hangar.
108. OMITTED
109. INT. DEATH STAR – SUB HALLWAY
Han chases the ten stormtroopers down a long sub hallway. He is yelling and brandishing his laser pistol. The troops reach a dead end and are forced to turn and fight. Han stops a few feet from them and assumes a defensive position. He is ready to blast them. The troops begin to raise their laser guns. Soon all ten troopers are moving into an attack position in front of the lone starpirate. Han’s determined look begins to fade as the troops begin to advance.
110. INT. DEATH STAR – SUB HALLWAY
Chewbacca runs down the sub hallway in a last ditch attempt to save his bold captain. Suddenly he hears the firing of laser guns and yelling. Around the corner shoots Han, pirate extraordinaire, running for his life, followed by a host of furious stormtroopers. Chewbacca turns and starts running the other way also.
A110 INT. DEATH STAR – HALLWAY
Luke fires at the advancing troops and the pair rush down a narrow sub hallway, chased by the stormtroopers. They quickly reach the end of the sub hallway and race through an open hatchway.
B110 INT. CENTRAL CORE SHAFT – DEATH STAR
Luke races through the hatch onto a narrow bridge that spans a huge deep shaft that seems to go into infinity. The bridge has been retracted into the wall of the shaft and Luke almost rushes into the abyss. He stops so quickly, Leia bangs into him sending both of them close to death. A blast from a stormtrooper’s laser bolt explodes over their heads reminding them of the oncoming danger. Luke draws his laser pistol and fires back at the advancing troops.
LUKE
I think we made a wrong turn.
Leia reaches over and hits a switch that pops the hatch door shut with a resounding boom, leaving them precariously perched on a short piece of bridge overhang. Luke blasts the controls with his laser pistol.
LUKE
That’s a shielded door, but it won’t hold them long.
LEIA
We must get across to the passageway. Find the extension control for the bridge!
They look for an exterior bridge control while the stormtroopers on the opposite side of the hatch begin making ominous drilling and pounding sounds.
LUKE
They’re coming through!
LEIA
I’m afraid the controls are on the other side!
Luke notices something on his stormtrooper utility belt. He pulls out a thin nylon cable, swings it across the metallic gorge and it wraps itself around an outcropping of pipes. He tugs on the rope to make sure it is secure, then grabs the princess in his arms. Leia looks at Luke, then kisses him quickly on the lips. Luke is very surprised.
LEIA
Just for luck. We’re going to need it.
Luke pushes off and they swing across the treacherous abyss to the corresponding hatchway on the opposite side. Just as Luke and Leia reach the far side go the canyon, the stormtroopers break through the hatch and begin to fire on the escaping duo. Luke returns the fire before ducking into the tiny sub hallway, closing the hatch behind him.
111. INT. DEATH STAR – HANGAR PASSAGEWAY
Ben hides in the shadows of a narrow passageway as twenty or thirty stormtroopers rush past him in the main hallway. He checks to make sure they’re gone, then runs down the hallway in the opposite direction. Darth Vader appears at the far end of the hallway and starts after the old Jedi.
112. OMITTED
113. INT. DEATH STAR – CORRIDOR – BLAST SHIELD DOOR
Han and Chewbacca run down a long corridor with several troopers hot on their trail. At the end of the hallway a multi-layered series of doors begins to close in front of them.
HAN
Hurry Chewie!
The young starpilot and his furry companion race past the huge door just as they are closing and manage to get off a couple of laser blasts at the pursuing troops before the five layers of door finally slam shut.
HAN
That ought to hold them for awhile.
114. OMITTED
115. OMITTED
116. INT. DEATH STAR – HALLWAY LEADING TO MAIN FORWARD BAY
Ben hurries along one of the tunnels leading to the starship hangar. Just before he is about to reach the hangar, Darth Vader steps into view at the end of the tunnel not more than ten feet away.
VADER
I have been waiting, Obi-wan Kenobi. We meet again at last. The circle is now completed. When I left you, I was but a learner, but now I am the master.
BEN
You still have much to learn.
Ben Kenobi lights his laser sword and moves with elegant ease into a classical offensive position. The fearsome Dark Knight ignites his laser sword and takes a defensive stance. The two galactic warriors stand perfectly still for a few moments, sizing each other up and waiting for the right moment. Ben seems to be under increasing pressure and strain, as if an invisible weight were being placed upon him. He shakes his head and blinking, tries to clear his eyes.
VADER
Your powers are weak… old man, you should never have come back.
BEN
You only know half The Force, Darth. you perceive its full power as little as a spoon perceives the taste of food.
Ben makes a sudden lunge at the huge warrior but is checked by a lightning movement of the Sith. A masterful slash-stroke by Vader is blocked by the old Jedi. Another of the Jedi’s blows is blocked, then countered. Ben moves around the Dark Lord and starts backing into the massive starship hangar. The two powerful warriors stand motionless for a few moments with laser swords locked in mid-air, creating a low buzzing sound.
117. INT. DEATH STAR – MAIN FORWARD BAY – STARSHIP
Threepio looks around at the troops milling about the starship entry ramp.
THREEPIO
Where could they be?… Oh, no!
Threepio ducks out of sight as a trooper looks over toward him. When the robot ventures another peek, he spots Han and Chewbacca in a tunnel on the other side of the starship. Han surveys the troops around the starship.
HAN
Didn’t we just leave this party?
Luke and the princess join Han and Chewie.
HAN
What kept you?
LEIA
We ran into some old friends…
LUKE
Is the ship all right?
HAN
Seems OK… if we could get near it.
LEIA
Look!
They look up and see Ben and Vader emerging from the hallways on the far side of the Docking Bay. The troops also see the battling knights.
HAN
Now’s our chance.
Threepio ducks out of sight as the seven stormtroopers who were guarding the starship rush past them heading toward Ben and the Sith Knight. He pulls on Artoo.
THREEPIO
Unplug yourself. We’re going.
Ben sees the troops charging toward him and realizes that he is trapped. Vader takes advantage of Ben’s momentary distraction and brings his mighty laser sword down on the old man. Ben manages to deflect the blow and swiftly turns around.
VADER
Prepare to meet The Force, Obi-wan.
BEN
This is a fight you cannot win, Darth. I have grown much since our parting. If my blade finds its mark, you will cease to exist. But, if you cut me down, I will only become more powerful. Heed my words.
VADER
Not this time… I am the master now.
Vader brings his sword down, cutting Old Ben in half. Ben’s cloak falls to the floor in two parts, but Ben in not in it. Vader is puzzled at Ben’s disappearance and pokes at the empty cloak. As the guards are distracted, the adventurers and the robots race to the starship. Luke see Ben cut in two and starts for him.
LUKE
Ben!
He starts firing wildly at the troops. Han pops off a couple of shots, one of which hits the safety lock on the blast door, causing it to slam shut, cutting off Vader.
HAN
Come on!
Luke starts for the advancing troops as Han runs up the ramp.
LEIA
It’s too late!
LUKE
No!
BEN’S VOICE
Luke!
Luke looks around to see where the voice came from, but only see Princess Leia running up the ramp.
LEIA
Come on!
Luke takes aim and blasts a couple of troops before racing up the ramp.
118. INT. PIRATE STARSHIP – COCKPIT
Han pulls back on the controls and the ship begins to move. The dull thud of laser bolts can be heard bouncing off the outside of the ship as Chewie adjusts his controls.
HAN
I hope that old man managed to knock out that tractor beam, or this is going to be a very short ride.
AA118. INT. PIRATE STARSHIP – HOLD AREA
Luke sits with his head in his hands. Princess Leia puts a cloak around him protectively.
LEIA
There wasn’t anything you could have done.
LUKE
I can’t believe he’s gone.
A118. EXT. DEATH STAR – NEAR EQUATOR – SPACE
The pirate starship powers away from the Death Star docking bay and disappears into the vastness of space.
A119. INT. PIRATE STARSHIP – HOLD AREA
Han rushes into the hold area where Luke is sitting with the princess.
HAN
Come with me kid, we aren’t out of this yet.
An explosion shakes the ship.
A120. INT. PIRATE STARSHIP – GUNPORTS – COCKPIT
(B37)
Luke settles into one of the two main laser cannons mounted in large rotating turrets on either side of the ship.
B120. INT. PIRATE STARSHIP – GUNPORTS – COCKPIT
(B38)
Han climbs through a hatch and activates the laser cannons on his side of the ship.
C120. INT. PIRATE STARSHIP – GUNPORTS – COCKPIT
(B39)
Chewbacca and Leia search the heavens for the attacking tie fighters. The wookiee pulls back on the speed controls.
LEIA
Here they come!
D120. EXT. TIE FIGHTER – SPACE
(B40)
POV. out the front of the cockpit as an Imperial tie fighter races overhead and away into the blackness of space.
E120. INT. TIE FIGHTER – SPACE
(B41)
CU. Imperial tie pilot, the stars whip past behind the Imperial pilot’s head as he adjusts his maneuvering “joy stick.”
F120. EXT. PIRATE STARSHIP – SPACE
(B42)
POV. from tie fighter as it races past the pirate starship.
G120. INT. PIRATE STARSHIP – GUNPORT
(B43)
A tie fighter races up through Han’s gunport and his laser gun flashes as he fires at the Imperial ship.
H120. INT. PIRATE STARSHIP – GUNPORT
(B44)
Luke lowers his glare reflector and, with a burst of powerful electronic charge, opens up on the enemy craft.
J120. INT. PIRATE STARSHIP – COCKPIT
(B45 & B46)
POV. out of the cockpit window as a tie fighter powers overhead and away. Chewbacca and Leia watch for a second fighter.
K120. EXT. SPACE
(B47)
Full Shot. Two tie fighters dive down through the frame toward the pirateship.
L120. EXT. PIRATE STARSHIP – GUNPORT
(B48)
CU. Han from outside the gunport as he fires at the descending Imperial fighters.
M120. EXT. SPACE – TIE FIGHTER
(B49)
A tie fighter drifts past to the left of the frame against a star background.
N120. INT. PIRATE STARSHIP
(B50)
CU. over Luke’s shoulder as he fires at an unseen fighter.
LUKE
They’re coming in too fast!
O120. EXT. SPACE – PIRATE STARSHIP – TIE FIGHTERS
(B51)
Pan with pirateship as two tie fighters charge through the background. Laserbolts streak from all the craft.
Q120. INT. PIRATE STARSHIP
(B52)
CU. Chewbacca. The ship shudders as a laserbolt hits very close to the cockpit. The wookiee chatters something to Leia.
R120. EXT. TIE FIGHTER – SPACE
(B53)
Full shot of a tie fighter as it moves fast through the frame firing on the pirate starship.
S120. INT. PIRATE STARSHIP – MAIN PASSAGEWAY
CU. a laserbolt streaks into the side of the pirateship causing a control panel in the main passageway to blow out creating a shower of sparks. Little Artoo starts toward the inferno as the ship lurches violently, throwing poor Threepio into a cabinet full of small computer ships.
T120. INT. PIRATE STARSHIP – GUNPORT
(B54)
CU. over Luke’s shoulder as his gun follows an unseen Imperial tie fighter.
U120. EXT. SPACE – TIE FIGHTER
(B55)
A tie fighter races toward camera from the vastness of space. Pan with it as it passes at an incredible speed.
V120. EXT. PIRATE STARSHIP – GUNPORT
(B56)
CU. of Han from outside the gunport as he fires furiously at the tie fighter. The constant flashing of deflected laser- bolts reflects in the turret bubble.
W120. INT. PIRATE STARSHIP – GUNPORT
(B57)
View over Han’s shoulder through the gunport as a tie fighter explodes into a million flaring bits. Han turns and gives Luke a victory wave which Luke gleefully returns.
X120. EXT. TIE FIGHTER – SPACE
(B58)
An Imperial tie fighter storms over the top of the pirateship past its transmitter dish.
Y120. INT. PIRATE STARSHIP – MAIN PASSAGEWAY
A fine white powder spray issues forth from Artoo’s head as the sparkling flames rage around him.
Z120. EXT. TIE FIGHTER – PIRATE STARSHIP
(B59)
Pan with a tie fighter as it zooms past the pirateship.
A121. INT. PIRATE STARSHIP – GUNPORT
(B60)
POV. over Luke’s shoulder as he hits one of the fighters with a concentrated barrage of laser bolts and it explodes. He flashes Han a big grin.
B121 EXT. TIE FIGHTER
(B61)
A tie fighter flies past the pirate starship.
C121. INT. PIRATE STARSHIP – COCKPIT
(B62)
Leia watches the computer readouts and searches the heavens for more tie fighters.
LEIA
There are still two more of them out there. We’ve lost the lateral controls and starboard deflector shield.
HAN
Don’t worry, she’ll hold together.
(Looking around)
You hear me ship?! Hold together!!
D121. INT. PIRATE STARSHIP – GUNPORT
(B63)
CU. Han through the gunport window as he fires at a tie fighter.
E121. INT. PIRATE STARSHIP – GUNPORT
(B64)
POV. over Luke’s shoulder as he fires at a tie fighter racing up through the frame.
F121. EXT. TIE FIGHTER – SPACE
(B65)
POV. out the cockpit of a tie fighter coming from overhead.
G121. INT. PIRATE STARSHIP – COCKPIT
(B66)
CU. Leia as she watches the tie ship fly over.
H121. INT. PIRATE STARSHIP – GUNPORT
(B67)
POV. over the shoulder of Han as a tie fighter heads right for him, them zooms overhead.
J121. INT. PIRATE STARSHIP – TIE FIGHTER
(B68)
POV. over Luke’s shoulder as he fires on a tie fighter diving below the pirateship.
K121. EXT. TIE FIGHTER – PIRATE STARSHIP
(B69)
Full shot of a tie fighter diving past the pirate starship.
L121. INT. PIRATE STARSHIP – GUNPORT
(B71)
CU. of Han as he fires his powerful laser cannons.
M121. EXT. TIE FIGHTER – SPACE
(B72)
Full shot tie fighter diving and twisting toward the pirate starship.
N121. EXT. TIE FIGHTER – SPACE
A tie fighter races past in the background.
P121. INT. PIRATE STARSHIP – GUNPORT
(B74)
POV. over Luke’s shoulder as he fires at a tie fighter coming toward him and racing overhead.
Q121. EXT. TIE FIGHTERS – SPACE
(B75)
Full shot of two tie fighters diving and twisting.
R121. INT. PIRATE STARSHIP – GUNPORT
(B76)
POV. over Luke’s shoulder as he fires at a tie fighter.
S121. EXT. TIE FIGHTER – SPACE
(B77 & B78)
Full shot of a tie fighter racing toward camera, one of Luke’s laserbolts hits it and it explodes into dust.
A122. INT. COCKPIT – PIRATE STARSHIP
Leia and Chewbacca congratulate each other.
LEIA
We’ve made it!
A123. INT. GUNPORT – PIRATE STARSHIP
Luke and Han congratulate each other on their victory.
A124. INT. DEATH STAR – CONTROL ROOM
Vader strides into the control room where Tarkin is watching the huge view screen. A sea of stars is before him.
TARKIN
Are they away?
VADER
They’ve just made the jump to hyper-space.
TARKIN
I’m taking an awful chance Vader. This had better work. Are you sure the homing beacon is secure aboard their ship?
VADER
Have no fear. This will be a day long remembered. It has seen the end of the end of the Jedi and will soon see the end of the rebellion.
A125. INT. PIRATE STARSHIP – COCKPIT
Han is at the controls of the ship. Chewie moves into the aft section to check the damage as the princess enters the cockpit with a determined look on her face.
HAN
What do you think, sweetheart? Not a bad bit of rescuing. You know, sometimes I amaze even myself.
LEIA
That doesn’t sound too hard. At least the information in R-2 is still intact.
HAN
What’s that droid carrying that’s so important anyway.
LEIA
The technical readouts of that battle station. I only hope that when the data is analyzed, it’s weakness can be found. I’m afraid it’s not over yet.
HAN
It is for me. I’m not doing this for your revolution… and I’m not doing it for you… Princess. I expect to be well paid.
*LEIA
(Sadly)
You needn’t worry about your reward. If money is all that you love… that is what you will receive.
She turns and, as she starts out of the cockpit, she passes Luke coming in.
*LEIA
(Quietly)
Your friend is indeed a mercenary. I wonder is he really cares about anything… or anybody.
*LUKE
(After she’s gone)
I do… I care.
Luke sits in the co-pilot’s seat. He and Han stare out at hevast blackness of space.
*LUKE
What do you think of her, Han?
*HAN
I try not to.
*LUKE
(Under his breath)
Good…
HAN
Still, she’s got a lot of spirit. I don’t know, do you think it’s possible for a princess and a guy like me…
LUKE
No.
Luke says it with finality and looks away. Han smiles at young Luke’s jealousy. They both stare at the stars and think about it.
126. OMITTED
127. OMITTED
128. EXT. SPACE AROUND FOURTH MOON OF YAVIN
The battered pirate starship drifts into orbit around the emerald green fourth moon of Yavin.
129. OMITTED
130. OMITTED
131. EXT. FOURTH MOON OF YAVIN
Rotting in a forest of gargantuan trees, an ancient temple lies shrouded in an eerie mist. The air is heavy with the fantastic cries of unimaginable creatures.
132. EXT. MASASSI OUTPOST – JUNGLE TEMPLE
Luke and the group ride into the massive temple on an armored military speeder.
A132. INT. MASASSI – MAIN HANGAR DECK
The military speeder stops in a huge spaceship hangar, set up in the interior of the crumbling temple. Willard, the commander of the rebel forces rushes up to the group and gives Leia a big hug. Every one is pleased to see her.
WILLARD
(Holding Leia)
You’re safe! We had feared the worst.
Willard composes himself, steps back and bows formally.
WILLARD
When we heard about Alderaan, we were afraid that you were… lost along with your planet.
*LEIA
We don’t have time for our sorrows, Commander. The battle station has surely tracked us here…
(looking pointedly at Han)
It’s the only explanation for the ease of our escape. You must use the information in this R-2 unit to plan the attack. It is our only hope.
133. OMITTED
134. OMITTED
135. INT. MASASSI – WAR ROOM BRIEFING AREA
Dodonna and Ben [sic!] stand before a large electronic wall display. Leia and several other senators get to one side of the giant readout. The low ceilinged room is filled with starpilots, navigators and a sprinkling of Artoo-type robots. Everyone is listening intently to what Dodonna is saying. Han and Chewbacca are standing near the back.
DODONNA
The battle station is heavily shielded and carries more firepower than half the star fleet… but its defenses are designed around direct large scale assault. A small one man fighter should be able to penetrate its defense screen.
Red Leader, a roguish looking man in his early thirties stands and addresses Dodonna.
RED LEADER
Pardon me for asking, sir, but what good are “snub” fighters going to be against that?
DODONNA
Well, the Empire doesn’t think a one man fighter is any threat, or they would have a tighter defense. But, an analysis of the plans provided by Princess Leia have revealed a weakness in the battle station. A small thermal exhaust port right below the main port. It is an unshielded shaft that runs directly into the reactor system. A direct hit will set up a chain reaction that will destroy the station.
A murmur of disbelief runs through the room.
DODONNA
Your approach will not be easy. You must maneuver straight in down this shaft, level off in the trench and skim the surface to this point. The target is only two meters across. It will take a very precise hit at exactly ninety degrees to get into the reactor system. And only a direct hit will set up a chain reaction. The shaft is ray shielded, so you’ll have to use proton torpedoes.
Luke is sitting next to WEDGE ANTILLES, a hot-shot pilot about sixteen years old. Artoo is sitting next to a little R-2 robot who lets out a long whistle of hopelessness and skepticism.
WEDGE
A two meter target at maximum speed with a torpedo yet! That’s impossible even for the computer.
LUKE
But it’s not impossible. I used to bulls-eye womp-rats in my T-16 back home. They are not much bigger than two meters.
WEDGE
With all that firepower directed at us, this will take a little more than a barnyard marksmanship, believe me.
DODONNA
Yellow squadron will cover for red on the first run. The green will cover for blue on the second. Any questions?
A muted buzz moves throughout the room, but there are no questions.
DODONNA
Then man your ships and may The Force be with you.
136. INT. MASASSI OUTPOST – MAIN HANGAR DECK
Luke, Threepio and little Artoo enter the huge spaceship hangar and hurry along a long line of gleaming spacefighters. Flight crews rush around loading last minute armament and unlocking power couplings. In an area isolated from this activity, Luke finds Han and Chewbacca loading small boxes onto an armored speeder. Han is deliberately ignoring the activity of the fighter pilots’ preparations. Luke is quite saddened at the sight of his friend’s departure.
LUKE
You got your reward.
(Han just nods)
And you’re leaving then.
HAN
That’s right, kid. I’ve got some old debts to pay off and even if I didn’t I don’t think I’d be fool enough to stick around here. You’re pretty good in a scrap kid, why don’t you come with us… I could use you.
*LUKE
(Getting angry)
Why don’t you look around? You know what’s about to happen… what they’re up against. They could use a good pilot, but you’re turning you back on them.
*HAN
What good’s a reward if you’re not around to spend it. Attacking that battle station isn’t my idea of courage… it’s more like suicide.
*LUKE
Take care of yourself, Han. But I guess that’s what you’re best at, isn’t it.
Luke goes off and Han hesitates, then calls to him.
HAN
Hey, Luke,… may The Force be with you.
Luke turns and sees Han wink at him. Luke lifts his hand in a small wave and then goes off. Han turns to Chewbacca.
HAN
What’re you looking at? I know what I’m doing.
Luke reaches his ship, where Princess Leia is waiting for him.
LEIA
Are you sure this is what you want?
LUKE
More than anything.
LEIA
Then what’s wrong?
LUKE
It’s Han, I thought he would change his mind.
LEIA
A man must follow his own path. No one can choose it for him.
LUKE
I only wish… Ben were here.
Leia gives Luke a little kiss, turns and goes off.
LEIA
May The Force be with you.
As Luke heads for his ship, another pilot rushes up to him and grabs his arm.
BIGGS
Luke! I don’t believe it! How’d you get here… are you going out with us?!
LUKE
Biggs! Of course, I’ll be up there with you! Listen, have I got some stories to tell you…
Blue Leader, a rugged handsome man in his forties, comes up behind Luke and Biggs. He has the confident smile of a born leader.
BLUE LEADER
Are you… Luke Skywalker? Have you been checked out on the Incom T-65?
BIGGS
Sir, Luke is the best bushpilot in the outer rim territories.
Pilot Leader pats Luke on the back as they stop in front of
his fighter.
PILOT LEADER
I met your father once when I was just a boy, he was a great pilot. You’ll do all right. If you’ve got half of your father’s skill, you’ll do better than all right.
LUKE
Thank you, sir. I’ll try.
Luke makes a short bow from the waist as Blue Leader hurries to his own ship.
BIGGS
I’ve got to get aboard. Listen, you’ll tell me your stories when we come back. All right?
LUKE
I told you I’d make it someday, Biggs.
BIGGS
(Going off)
You did, all right. It’s going to be like old times Luke. We’re a couple of shooting stars that’ll never be stopped!
Luke laughs and shakes his head in agreement. Then he runs to his ship. There Luke’s ground crew has hoisted little Artoo into a socket on the back of the one-man starship fighter. Threepio is watching his little friend being rigged. It’s an emotion filled moment as Artoo beeps goodbye.
THREEPIO
Hold on tight. You’ve got to come back… you wouldn’t want my life to get boring would you?
Luke climbs aboard the sleek, deadly spacecraft. Blue Leader
gives his ground crew the signal that he is starting his ion engines. Luke’s CREW CHIEF pats him on the helmet and has to yell to be heard over the ion engines.
CHIEF
That R-2 unit of yours seems a little beatup. Do you want a new one?
LUKE
Not on your life… that droid and I have been through a lot. All secure, Artoo?
The little droid, who is now part of the exterior shell of the starship, beeps that he is fine.
137. INT. MASASSI OUTPOST – WAR ROOM
The princess sits quietly before the giant display showing the planet of Yavin and her four moons. The red dot that represents the Death Star moves ever closer to the system. A series of green dots appear around the fourth moon. Dodonna stands behind the princess with several other field commanders.
CONTROLLER
The red signal is on the station, it’s moving into our system.
COMMANDER
The ships are away.
138. EXT. FOURTH MOON OF YAVIN – MASASSI OUTPOST – JUNGLE
All that can be seen of the fortress is a lone guard standing on a small pedestal jutting out above the dense jungle. The muted, gruesome crying sounds that naturally permeate this eerie purgatory are overwhelmed by the thundering din of ion rockets as four silver starships catapult from the foliage in a tight formation and disappear into the morning cloud cover.
139. EXT. SPACE AROUND FOURTH MOON OF YAVIN
(82)
Long Shot. The small green Fourth Moon slowly moves behind the massive yellow surface of Yavin in the foreground, as four X wing fighters flying in formation zoom toward us and out of frame. They are followed by twenty more distant ships, which are merely points of light.
139A. EXT. SPACE – ANOTHER ANGLE
(82A)
Tracking Shot. The massive surface of Yavin slowly moves toward the upper left part of the frame as the camera orbits the planet. Light from a distant sun creates an eerie atmospheric glow around the huge planet. A small bright speck appears out of the ozone haze and begins to move toward us. Four Y ships and four X ships flying in formations (X in front) settle ominously in the foreground and very slowly pull away from the tracking camera as the orbiting speck grows brighter.
140. INT. BLUE LEADER STARSHIP – COCKPIT
(82B)
CU. Blue pilot leader lowers his visor and adjusts his gunsights, looking to each side at his wing men. (One distant Y wing in background).
BLUE LEADER
Blue boys, this is Blue Leader. Adjust your selectors and check in. Approaching target at one point three parsec…
141. OMITTED
142. EXT. SPACE AROUND THE DEATH STAR
(83)
Tracking Shot. Behind three of the X wing fighters, the Death Star grows brighter and the faintest hint of surface is suggested. The huge planet of Yavin is almost out of frame.
143. INT. BLUE LEADER STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(83A)
CU. Pilot leader looks to his left.
PILOT LEADER
This is it boys. Blue Two, you’re out too far, close it up, Wedge.
144. INT. WEDGE’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(83B)
CU. Wedge with his brightly painted helmet looks up to his right and makes some adjustment on his control panels. One Y wing fighter moves down through the background.
WEDGE
Sorry Boss, my ranger seems to be a few points off… I’ll have to go on manual.
BLUE LEADER
Stand by to lock “S-Foils” in attack position.
WEDGE
Blue Two standing by.
BIGGS
Blue Three standing by.
JOHN D
Blue Four standing by.
LUKE
Blue Five standing by.
PIGGY
Blue Six standing by.
BLUE LEADER
Execute!
145. EXT. SPACE AROUND THE DEATH STAR
(84)
Tracking Shot with the rebel ships. The large wings on the fighters unfold, turning them into an X shaped dart. The Death Star now appears to be a small moon growing rapidly in size as the rebel fighters approach. We can now vaguely perceive the complex patterns on the metallic surface. A large dish antenna is built into the surface on one side.
146. EXT. LUKE’S STARSHIP – TRAVELING
(84A)
CU. Luke adjusts his controls as he concentrates on the approaching Death Star. The ship begins to be buffeted slightly.
PILOT LEADER
We’re passing through their magnetic shields, hold tight. Lock down your control units. Switch your deflector shields on… double front.
A146. EXT. LUKE’S STARSHIP – TRAVELING
(84B)
CU. As the shaking and buffeting grows stronger, little R-2 riding on the back of the fighter gets jostled quite a bit. Luke holds on to his controls for dear life, then suddenly all the turbulence is gone and everything is deathly calm.
PILOT LEADER
Keep the channels quiet until we’ve reached the surface.
147. EXT. SPACE AROUND THE DEATH STAR
(85)
Tracking Shot. As the fighters move closer to the Death Star (which now almost fills the frame) the awesome size of the gargantuan Imperial space fortress is revealed. The vast complicated surface is ringed at the equator by thousands of huge docking ports. Half of the deadly space station is in shadow and this area sparkles with thousands of small lights, running in thin lines, and occasionally grouped in large clusters. (Somewhat like L.A. at night as seen from a weather satellite).
148. INT. WEDGE’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(85A)
CU. Wedge. Blue Two is amazed and slightly frightened at the awesome spectacle.
WEDGE
Look at the size of that thing!
BLUE LEADER
Cut the chatter Blue Two! Accelerate to attack speed.
149. EXT. SPACE AROUND THE DEATH STAR
(86)
Tracking Shot. The Death Star is now an immense surface. A huge band of docking ports dot the equator. The glow from the X wing after burners intensifies as they double their power. The Blue squad pulls away from the camera as they jam down to the shadowed surface.
150. INT. LUKE’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(86A)
CU. Luke. Grim determination sweeps across Luke’s face as he flips several switches above his head and adjusts his computerized target readout.
151. EXT. LUKE’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(86B)
CU. Little Artoo sits snuggled in his nest behind the cockpit watching the awesome planet whip by.
(87) OMITTED
152. INT. BLUE LEADER’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(88)
CU. Blue Leader looks around at his wing men. The left side of the background is filled with swiftly moving Death Star surface, as viewed from a rather high altitude. Two Y wing fighters bob back and forth in the background. He moves his computer targeting device into position.
BLUE LEADER
Red Leader, this is Blue Leader. We’re in position. You can go right in. The exhaust shaft is further to the north. We’ll keep them busy down here.
153. INT. RED LEADER’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(89)
CU. Red Leader. The Y wing fighter is filled with various computer readouts and displays. Red Leader looks screen left to the passing Death Star surface, which rotates into horizontal position.
RED LEADER
We’re starting for the target shaft now. Dutch, stand by to take over is anything happens.
BLUE LEADER
I’m going to cut across the axis and try to draw their fire. May The Force be with you.
154. EXT. SPACE AROUND THE DEATH STAR
(90)
Long Shot. The two squads of rebel fighters peel off. The Y ships rise out of the top of the frame. The X wing ships dive towards the Death Star surface. A thousand light glow across the dark gray expanse of the huge station.
155. EXT. SPACE – ANOTHER ANGLE
(91)
Full Shot. Three X wing fighters dive through the frame towards the Death Star surface, crossing the horizon line of the huge station.
156. INT. DEATH STAR
(92)
Alarm sirens scream as soldiers scramble to large turbo powered laser gun emplacements. Electronic drivers rotate the huge guns into position as the crew adjusts their targeting devices.
157. INT. DEATH STAR
(93)
Men and robots of various shapes and sizes run to their battle stations. The sound of distant guns pounding away are replaced by the shudder of a nearby artillery battery opening up.
158. INT. DEATH STAR
(94)
A squad of Imperial troopers rush down a hallway in close formation passing a gunnery crew opening fire.
159. INT. DEATH STAR
(95)
Imperial officers yell orders through the smoke and confusion. Several more armored officers run up to the group, still putting on helmets and equipment.
160. EXT. SPACE AROUND THE DEATH STAR
(96)
Long Shot. Laser bolts streak through the star filled night.
161. INT. LUKE’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(97)
CU. Luke. He nosedives radically starting his attack on the monstrous fortress. The Death Star surface streaks past the cockpit window.
LUKE
This is Blue Five, I’m going in.
BIGGS
I’m right behind you, Blue Five.
162. EXT. LUKE’S STARSHIP – TRAVELING
(98)
POV. Gunsight Shot. Laserbolts streak from Luke’s weapons creating a huge fireball explosion on the dim surface.
163. INT. LUKE’S STARSHIP – TRAVELING
(99)
CU. Luke. Terror crosses his face as he realizes he won’t be able to pull out in time to avoid the fireball.
BIGGS
Pull out. Luke, pull out!
A163. INT. LUKE’S STARSHIP – ANOTHER ANGLE – TRAVELING
(100)
POV. Shot from Luke’s ship. The huge explosion continues to climb from the surface, and the ship dives into it.
B163. EXT. SURFACE OF DEATH STAR
(101)
Full Shot. The explosion dominates the frame. Finally Luke’s ship emerges from the fireball, with the leading edges of his wings slightly scorched.
C163. INT. LUKE’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(102)
CU. Luke. He adjusts his controls and breathes a sigh of relief. Flak bursts outside the cockpit window.
BIGGS
Are you all right, Luke?
LUKE
I got a little cooked, but, I’m OK.
BLUE LEADER
Blue Five, give yourself more lead time, or you’re going to blast yourself out of the sky.
LUKE
Yes sir, I’ve got the hang of it now.
D163. EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR
(103)
Long Shot. The surface of the Death Star is pock marked with explosions. Laserbolts criss-cross the sky in all directions. Three X wing fighters pass low over-head, dodging the explosions. Three Y wing ships skim the horizon far in the background.
E163. EXT. DEATH STAR SURFACE
(104)
Full Shot. Two ships scream low over the camera firing on a
power terminal. It explodes, generating weird electrical arcs that leap off the station’s surface.
F163. INT. DEATH STAR
(105)
Walls buckle and cave in. Troops and equipment are blown in all directions. Stormtroopers stagger out of the rubble.
G163. INT. DEATH STAR
(106)
Standing in the middle of the chaos, a vision of calm and foreboding, is Darth Vader. One of his astro-officer aides rushes up to him.
AIDE
We count at least thirty rebel ships, Lord Vader. But they’re so small they’re evading our turbo-lasers.
VADER
Get the crews to their fighters. Lift off immediately. We’ll have to destroy them ship to ship…
H163. INT. DEATH STAR
(107)
Ready room chaos. Red scramble lights are flashing. Imperial starpilots already in their space suits, grab helmets and space packs as they scramble out the door.
I163. EXT. DEATH STAR
(108)
Full Shot. An X wing fighter (Wedge) skims close to the surface of the Death Star, maneuvering among gun towers and projecting superstructures.
J163. INT. DEATH STAR
(109)
Smoke belches from the giant laser guns as they wind up their turbine generators to create sufficient power. The crew rushes about preparing for another blast. Even the troopers head gear is not adequate to protect them from the over-whelming noise of the monstrous weapon. One trooper bangs his helmet with his hand in an attempt to stop the ringing.
K163. INT. BLUE LEADER’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(110)
CU. Blue Leader flies through a heavy hail of flak.
BLUE LEADER
Luke, let me know when you are off the block.
L163. INT. LUKE’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(111)
CU. Luke. Pilot leaders X wing flies past Luke as he puts his nose down and starts his attack dive.
LUKE
I’m on my way in now…
BLUE LEADER
Watch yourself! There’s a lot of fire coming from the right side of that deflection tower.
LUKE
I’m on it.
M163. EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR
(112)
Full Shot. Luke flings his X wing into a twisting dive across horizons and down onto the dim gray surface.
N163. EXT. LUKE’S STARSHIP – TRAVELING
(113)
POV. Shot from Luke’s guns. Laserbolts streak toward the onrushing Death Star surface. Several small radar emplacements erupt in flame. Laser fire erupts from a protruding tower on the surface.
O163. INT. LUKE’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(114)
CU. Luke. The blurry Death Star surface races past the cockpit window as a big smile sweeps across Luke’s face at the success of his run. Flak thunders on all sides of him.
P163. EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR
(115)
Full Shot. The Death Star superstructure races past Luke as he maneuvers his craft through a wall of laser fire and peels away from the surface towards the heavens.
Q163. INT. DEATH STAR
(116)
The thunder and smoke of the big guns reverberates throughout the massive structure. Many soldiers rush about in the smoke and chaos, silhouetted by the almost continual flash of explosion.
R163. INT. BIGGS’ STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(117)
Pan Shot. Biggs dives through a forest of radar domes, antennae and gun towers as he shoots low across the Death Star surface. A dense barrage of laser fire streaks by on all sides.
S163. INT. DEATH STAR
(118)
Imperial star pilots dash in unison to a line of small auxiliary hatches that lead to Imperial tie fighters.
T163. INT. DEATH STAR
(119)
Technical crews scurry here and there loading last minute armaments and unlocking power cables.
U163. INT. TIE SHIP – DEATH STAR
(120)
Vader slides into his cramped one man craft and tightens a second set of eye shields. Technical personnel rush all around him making last minute adjustments, the impression is that of a champion boxer between rounds.
164. INT. MASASSI OUTPOST – WAR ROOM
(121)
Princess Leia, surrounded by her generals and aides, paces nervously before a lighted computer table. On all sides technicians work in front of many lighted glass walls. Dodonna watches quietly from one corner. One of the officers working over a screen speaks into his head set.
CONTROL OFFICER
Squad leaders, we’ve picked up a new group of signals. Enemy fighters coming your way.
165. INT. LUKE’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(122)
CU. Luke looks around to see if he can spot the approaching Imperial fighter.
LUKE
My scope’s negative. I don’t see anything.
166. INT. BLUE LEADER’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(123)
CU. Blue Leader. The Death Star surface sweeps past as he searches the sky for the Imperial fighter. Flak pounds at this ship.
PILOT LEADER
Keep us your visual scanning. With all this jamming, they’ll be on top of you before your scope can pick them up.
167. EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR
(124)
Long Shot. Silhouetted against the rim lights of the Death Star horizon, four ferocious Imperial tie ships dive on the rebel fighters. Two of the tie fighters peel off and drop out of frame. Pan with the remaining two tie ships.
168. INT. BIGGS’ STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(125)
CU. Biggs panics when he discovers a tie ship on his tail. The horizon in the background twists around as he peels off, hoping to lose the Imperial fighter.
LUKE
Biggs! You’ve picked one up… watch it!
BIGGS
I can’t see it! Where is he?!
169. EXT. SPACE AROUND THE DEATH STAR
(126)
Full Shot. Biggs zooms off the surface and into space, closely followed by an Imperial tie fighter. The tie ship fires several laserbolts at Biggs, but misses.
170. INT. BIGGS’ STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(127)
CU. Biggs sees the tie ship behind him and swings around, trying to avoid him.
BIGGS
He’s on me tight, I can’t shake him… I can’t shake him.
171. EXT. SPACE AROUND THE DEATH STAR
(128)
Full Shot. Biggs, flying at high altitude, peels off and dives toward the Death Star surface, but he is unable to lose the tie fighter, who sticks close to his tail.
172. INT. LUKE’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(129)
CU. Luke is flying upside down. He rotates his ship around to a normal altitude as he comes out of his dive.
LUKE
Hang on Biggs, I’m coming in.
173. EXT. SPACE AROUND THE DEATH STAR
(130)
Full Shot. Biggs and the tailing tie ship dive for the surface, now followed by a fast gaining Luke. After Biggs goes out of the frame, pan with Luke chasing the Imperial fighter.
174. EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR
(131)
Medium Shot. In the foreground the Imperial fighter races across the Death Star surface, closely followed by Luke in the background.
A174. EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR
(132)
Full Shot. Tie fighter in foreground, pan with Luke as he
dives toward the surface.
175. INT. LUKE’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(133)
CU. Luke rotates his ship as the Death Star blurs past the
cockpit.
176. INT. COCKPIT CONTROL PANEL – INSERT
(133A)
The electronic sights line up on the computer readout.
177. INT. LUKE’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(133A)
LUKE
Got him!
178. INT. LUKE’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(133A)
POV. Shot from Luke’s X wing of the tie ship exploding in a mass of flames.
(134) OMITTED
(135) OMITTED
179. EXT. SPACE AROUND THE DEATH STAR
(136)
Full Shot. Wedge rolls his ship and dives toward the Death Star surface, passing a tie ship going in the other direction.
180. EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR
(137)
Full Shot. Blue Leader soars up from the Death Star surface.
181. INT. JOHN D’s STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(138)
CU. John D, a young pilot with a scar across one eye, adjusts his targeting device.
JOHN D
I’m on one! I’ve got one!
182. EXT. SPACE AROUND THE DEATH STAR
(139)
Full Shot. A tie ship races by camera followed by John D.
183. INT. JOHN D’s STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(140)
POV. shot over John D’s shoulder. The tie ship attempts to outmaneuver the young rebel, to no avail. John D closes on the Imperial craft as it skims the surface.
(141) OMITTED
184. INT. JOHN D’s STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(142)
CU. John D reaches up and pulls the trigger of his laser cannon.
185. EXT. JOHN D’s STARSHIP – TRAVELING
(143)
POV. Gunsite. The ship is blown to oblivion and spirals down toward the Death Star.
186. INT. JOHN D’s STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(143A)
CU. John D. A gleeful expression crosses his face at his good shooting.
BLUE LEADER
Good shooting, Blue Six… watch it, you’ve got one on your tail.
John D’s smile instantly disappears from his face as he looks around, but can’t see the ship behind him. His ship shudders as a laserbolt explodes nearby, creating flak out the cockpit window.
187. EXT. SPACE AROUND THE DEATH STAR
(144)
Full Shot. John D’s x wing races past camera, closely chased by an Imperial tie ship firing both guns.
188. INT. JOHN D’s STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(145)
CU. John D. The inside of the cockpit explodes as John D is hit.
JOHN D
I’m hit! I’m hit!
189. EXT. SPACE AROUND THE DEATH STAR
(146)
Full Shot. John D’s X wing explodes in a fiery ball, parts flying in all directions.
190. INT. MASASSI OUTPOST – WAR ROOM
(146A)
Threepio, Princess Leia and her generals listen and watch the battle on a huge view screen. (Gunsite POV.) Suddenly the image flickers and goes dead, but the sound remains, technicians rush to and fro trying to fix it.
TECHNICIANS
The high band receiver has failed. It will take some time to fix…
LEIA
Switch to audio.
Everyone moves about quietly listening to the battle over the intercom.
BLUE LEADER (V.O.)
Tighten it up. Blue Two, tighten it up. Watch those towers.
WEDGE (BLUE TWO) (V.O.)
Heavy fire, boss. Twenty-three degrees.
BLUE LEADER
I see it. Pull in. Pull in. We’re picking up some interference.
BIGGS (BLUE THREE) (V.O.)
I can’t believe it… I’ve never seen such fire power!
BLUE LEADER
Pull in, Blue Five. Pull in. Luke, do you read me? Luke?
LUKE (V.O.)
I’m all right, chief. I’ve got a target. I’m going in to check it out.
BIGGS (BLUE THREE) (V.O.)
There’s too much action down there, Luke. Get out. Do you read me, Luke? Pull out.
In the war room, Leia stands frozen as she listens and worries about Luke.
BLUE LEADER (V.O.)
Break off, Luke. Acknowledge. We’ve hit too much interference. Luke, I repeat, break off! I can’t see him. Blue Six, can you see Blue Five?
WEDGE (V.O.)
I’ve lost Luke. There’s a heavy fire zone on this side. My scanner’s jammed. Blue Five, where are you? Luke, are you all right.
BIGGS (V.O.)
He’s gone. No wait. There he is. Fin damage, but Luke’s all right. The kid’s fine.
A sigh of relief sweeps across the war room. Leia holds onto a chair and composes herself, knowing Luke is safe.
(147) OMITTED
191. INT. DEATH STAR
(148)
Smoke belches from the huge guns as troopers struggle to hook up more power cables.
192. INT. DEATH STAR
(149)
Troopers riding a big gun, brace themselves as it fires and recoils causing the entire room to shudder.
193. EXT. SPACE AROUND THE DEATH STAR
(150)
Long Shot. Laserbolts blast through the night sky.
194. INT. DEATH STAR
(151)
Troopers carry exhausted comrades out of the gunport as fresh gunners jump in to the huge weapon.
(152) OMITTED
195. EXT. SPACE AROUND THE DEATH STAR
(153)
Full Shot. Luke dives out of the stars toward the Death Star surface, past two tie ships in the background.
196. INT. LUKE’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – SPACE
(154)
CU. Luke maneuvers his ship as the twisting blurry surface of the Death Star zooms by outside the cockpit.
BLUE LEADER
Stick close Blue Five, where are you going?
LUKE
My scopes picked up a lateral stabilizer, I’m going to try for it.
197. EXT. LUKE’S STARSHIP – TRAVELING
(155)
POV Shot from Luke’s gunsite. Luke skims the Death Star surface as his laser homes in on a small projection, which explodes in a spectacular ball of fire.
198. INT. MASASSI OUTPOST – WAR ROOM
(155A)
Full Shot. The Princess is beside Threepio and seems angry and scared at the same time.
LEIA
(Under her breath) Why is Luke taking so many chances?!
LUKE (V.O.)
Got it… I’m moving south for the other one.
BIGGS (V.O.)
Watch your back, Luke. Watch your back! Fighters above you, coming in.
Leia strains to hear more clearly. Threepio listens nervously to the continuing battle.
THREEPIO
Help him Artoo, and keep holding on.
199. EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR
(156)
Luke continues his dive as a tie fighter appears on his tail, and begins to close fast.
200. INT. LUKE’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(157)
CU. Luke as he spots the tie fighters behind him and soars away from the Death Star surface.
LUKE
I can’t shake him.
201. EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR
(158)
Full Shot. Wedge dives across the horizon toward Luke and the tie fighter.
202. INT. WEDGE’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(159)
CU. Wedge, as the Death Star whips below him.
WEDGE
I’m on him Luke… hold on.
203. INSERT – FIRING SWITCH
(160)
CU. Wedge’s hand as he activates the firing switch on the compact rebel fighter.
204. EXT. WEDGE’S STARSHIP – TRAVELING
(161)
POV. Shot from Wedge’s gun camera as the tie ship explodes against the stars. Luke’s ship can be seen far into the distance.
205. INT. BIGGS’ STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(162)
CU. Biggs races along against a star background.
LUKE
Thanks Wedge.
BIGGS
Good shooting, Wedge… Blue Six, I’m going in. Cover me, Porkins.
PORKINS
I’m right with you, Blue Three.
206. EXT. SPACE AROUND THE DEATH STAR
(163)
Full Shot. Biggs’ X wing peels off and dives toward the Death Star surface.
207. EXT. BIGGS’ GUNSITE – DEATH STAR SURFACE – SPACE
(164)
POV. Biggs’ gunsite as his lasers hit the Death Star surface blowing up a small tower. Lasers stream toward camera from the surface. A chain reaction is set off creating a series of explosions leaping across the surface of the fortress from terminal to terminal.
208. INT. PORKINS’ STARSHIP – COCKPIT – DEATH STAR
(165)
CU. Porkins (Blue Pig). The Death Star horizon rotates outside the cockpit, as the control panels inside Pig’s ship go wild.
PORKINS
I’ve got a problem here… my converter is running wild…
BIGGS
Eject, eject, Blue Six, do you read?
PORKINS
I’m all right. I can hold it. Give me a little room, Biggs.
BIGGS
Pull up… pull up.
209. EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR
(166)
Full Shot. Biggs and Porkins race over a mechanical surface gun emplacement, which follows them relentlessly. Flak and explosions are everywhere.
210. INT. PORKINS’ STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(167)
CU. Porkins. His cockpit explodes over the low altitude horizon of the Death Star.
211. INT. DEATH STAR
(168)
Full Shot Plate. Porkins’ X wing comes apart in a million flaming pieces against the stars, as Imperial troops watch from a gun emplacement in the foreground.
212. INT. DEATH STAR – ANOTHER ANGLE
(169)
Troops rush toward the scene of the crash.
213. INT. BIGGS’ STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(170)
CU. Biggs. He reacts to the destruction of his comrade and wing man.
214. INT. CONTROL ROOM – MASASSI TEMPLE
(170A)
General Dodonna approaches the princess and speaks in a calm, hushed voice.
(171) OMITTED
215. INT. RED LEADER’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(172)
CU. Red Leader peels off and starts toward the long trenches at the Death Star surface pole. The background rushes towards us.
RED LEADER
Blue Leader, this is Red Leader. We are starting our attack run. The exhaust port is marked and locked in. No flak, no enemy fighters up here… look’s like we’ll get a smooth run at it.
BLUE LEADER
I copy Red Leader. We’ll try to keep them busy on this end.
216. EXT. SPACE AROUND THE DEATH STAR
(172)
Full shot. Three Y wing fighters of the red group dive out of the stars toward the Death Star surface.
217. INT. RED LEADER’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(174)
POV. Shot from Red Leader as he approaches the surface and pulls out to skim the surface of the huge station. The ship moves into a deep trench. The surface streaks past in front of them.
218. INT. BLUE LEADER’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(175)
CU. Blue Leader looks around to see if any enemy ships are near. He makes some adjustments to his control panel.
RED LEADER
There it is boys… remember, when you think you’re close, go in closer before you drop that rock. Switch all power to front deflector screens.
A218. INT. RED LEADER’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(176)
Over shoulder POV. Shot. Red Leader races down the enormous trench that leads to the exhaust port. Laserbolts begin to race toward him in increasing numbers, occasionally exploding near the ship, causing it to bounce about.
RED TWO
A little aggressive aren’t they?
RED LEADER
How many guns do you think, Red Five?
B218. INT. RED FIVE’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(176A)
CU. Red Five is a pilot in his early fifties with a very battered helmet that looks like it’s been through many battles.
RED FIVE (POPS)
I’d say about twenty guns. Some on the surface and some in the towers.
C218. EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR
(177)
Full Tracking Shot. Three Y wings skim the Death Star surface deep in the trench as laserbolts streak past on all sides.
D218. EXT. DEATH STAR SURFACE – GUN EMPLACEMENT
(178)
Full Shot. An exterior surface gun blazes away at the oncoming rebel fighters.
E218. INT. RED LEADER’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(179)
POV. from Red Leader’s ship as it skims the blurred canyon surface, heading into a vertical wall of laser fire, which creates almost a slit-scan effect.
219. EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR
(180)
Low Angle Tracking Shot. The three Y wing fighters race toward camera and zoom over head through a hail of laser fire.
A219. INT. RED LEADER’S STARSHIP
(181)
CU. Red Leader pulls his computer targeting device down in front of his eye. Laserbolts continue to batter the rebel craft.
RED LEADER
Switch to targeting computer.
B219. INT. RED TWO’S STARSHIP
(181A)
CU. Red Two, a younger pilot about Luke’s age, pulls down his targeting eye viewer and adjusts it. His ship shudders under the intense laser barrage.
RED TWO
Computers locked and I’m getting a signal.
C219. INT. RED FIVE’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(181B)
CU. Red Five adjusts the targeting device in front of him. He seems oblivious to the laser flak. He is very cool and sure of himself.
RED FIVE (POPS)
No doubt about it, this is going to be some trick.
D219. INT. RED LEADER’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(182)
POV. over Red Leader’s shoulder. As the fighter begins to approach the target area, suddenly all the laser fire stops. An eerie calm clings over the trench as the surface whips past in a blur.
RED TWO (V.O.)
What’s that? They stopped?
RED LEADER
I don’t like it.
E219. EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR
(183)
Full Tracking Shot. The three Y wings drive through the narrow trench flat out. There is now no laser fire to slow them down.
F219. INT. RED FIVE’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(184)
CU. Red Five as he looks behind him.
RED FIVE (POPS)
Stabilize your rear deflectors. Watch for enemy fighters.
RED LEADER
There they are. Coming in. Three marks at two ten.
In the background a computer voice can be heard calling out the distance to the target. Red Five spots something.
RED LEADER
We’re sitting ducks down here.
RED FIVE (POPS)
We’ll have to ride it out.
G219. EXT. SPACE AROUND THE DEATH STAR
(185)
Full Shot. Three Imperial tie ships in precise formation dive almost vertically toward the Death Star surface.
H219. INT. DARTH VADER’S FIGHTER – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(186)
CU. Darth Vader calmly adjusts his control stick as the stars whip past in the window above his head.
VADER
3-8-104 I’ll take them myself. Cover me.
I219. INT. DARTH VADER’S FIGHTER – ANOTHER ANGLE
(187)
POV. Gunsite. Vader lines up Red Two in his targeting computer.
J219. INT. RED TWO’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(188)
CU. Red Two. The cockpit explodes around Red Two.
(189) OMITTED
K219. INT. RED LEADER’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(190)
CU. Red Leader. The Death Star races by outside the cockpit window as he adjusts his targeting device.
RED LEADER
(Panicked)
We’re trapped down here. I can’t maneuver. I’m too close… loosen it up.
RED FIVE (POPS)
(Calmly)
Stay on target. Stay on target.
(191) OMITTED
L219. EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR
(192)
Full Shot. The three tie fighters race along in the trench in a tight formation.
M219. INT. DARTH VADER’S FIGHTER
(193)
CU. Vader calmly adjusts his targeting computer and pushes the fire button.
(194) OMITTED
(195) OMITTED
N219. INT. RED LEADER’S STARSHIP
(196)
CU. Red Leader panicked.
RED LEADER
It’s no good, I’m hit, I’m hit.
(197) OMITTED
(198) OMITTED
(199) OMITTED
220. EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR
(200)
(Use Board 189) Full Shot. Red Leader explodes in a ball of flames throwing debris in all directions.
A220. INT. DARTH VADER’S FIGHTER – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(200A)
POV. from Vader’s ship as the Y wing fighter peels off and heads toward space. The horizon drops away as Vader follows.
B220. INT. RED FIVE’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(201)
CU. Red Five as he moves in on the exhaust port.
RED FIVE (POPS)
Red Five to Blue Leader. Aborting run, under heavy fire. Tie fighter came out of nowhere… I can’t… wait!
C220. INT. DARTH VADER’S FIGHTER – COCKPIT
(202)
CU. Vader as he adjusts his control stick, then presses the firing button.
D220. EXT. SPACE AROUND THE DEATH STAR
(203)
Full Shot. One of the engines explodes on Red Five’s Y winged fighter, blazing and out of control he dives past the horizon toward the Death Star surface, passing a tie fighter during his descent.
E220. INT. RED FIVE’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(204)
CU. Red Five, a veteran of countless campaigns, spins toward his death.
BLUE LEADER
Are you all right?
RED FIVE
Lost Tiree… lost Dutch… they come from behind, can’t maneuver in the trench… sorry, it’s your baby now… so long, Dave…
(static)
F220. INT. BLUE LEADER’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(205)
CU. Blue Leader reacts to the loss of his old friend.
BLUE LEADER
Blue Boys, this is Blue Leader. Rendezvous at mark six point one. All wings report in.
BLUE TEN
Blue Leader, this is Blue Ten, I copy.
BLUE TWO (WEDGE)
This is Blue Two. I’m flying towards you.
G220. INT. LUKE’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(206)
CU. Luke looks back and sees an Imperial tie fighter on his tail. His ship wobbles as he tries to maneuver away from it.
LUKE
This is Blue Five, I have a problem here, I’ll be right with you.
H220. EXT. SPACE AROUND THE DEATH STAR
(207)
Full Shot. Luke takes evasive action diving toward the surface. The tie ship drops in behind him as Luke continues his dive then soars up, leaving the Death Star far below.
I220. INT. BIGGS’ STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(208)
CU. Biggs flying at high altitude. Biggs spots his friend in trouble.
BIGGS
I see you Luke, stay with it.
J220. EXT. SPACE AROUND THE DEATH STAR
(209)
Full Shot. At an incredible speed, Biggs’ fighter drops through the frame racing for Luke.
K220. INT. LUKE’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(210)
CU. Luke with tie ship in the background. The tie ship fires a laser at Luke, which streaks over head causing the entire fighter to shudder.
LUKE
Blasted, Biggs. Where are you?
L220. INT. TIE FIGHTER – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(211)
POV. of Luke racing toward the horizon, from over the tie pilot’s shoulder. He fires another laser at Luke and watches his targeting device intently waiting for Luke to get in the cross hairs. Suddenly he looks up in surprise as Biggs drops into view just ahead and races toward him, firing both guns. The tie fighter explodes in a fiery hell.
M220. INT. LUKE’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(212)
CU. Luke peels off and heads for Blue Leader.
LUKE
Good move Biggs.
(213) OMITTED
(214) OMITTED
(215) OMITTED
N220. INT. BIGGS’ STARSHIP – TRAVELING
(216)
CU. Biggs. The horizon twists wildly behind his head.
BIGGS
I’m just getting started…
221. INT. LUKE’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(217)
POV. of Space from behind Luke’s shoulder as Biggs races past Luke doing a victory roll.
BIGGS
Just point me at the target.
A221. INT. MASASSI OUTPOST – WAR ROOM
(218)
Dodonna moves to the intercom as he fiddles with the computer keys.
DODONNA
(Into intercom)
Blue Leader, this is base one. Double check your attack. Have your wing men hold back and cover for you. Keep half of your group out of range to make the next run.
BLUE LEADER
Copy base one… Blue Ten, Blue Twelve, join with me.
B221. EXT. SPACE AROUND THE DEATH STAR
(219)
Long Shot. Three X wings level off over the Death Star surface. (Blue Leader, Ten and Twelve).
C221. INT. BLUE LEADER’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(220)
CU. Blue Leader looks over at his wing men.
BLUE LEADER
Blue Five, this is Blue Leader. Luke take Blue Two and Three. Hold up here and wait for my signal to start your run.
D221. INT. LUKE’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(221)
CU. Luke flying high over the Death Star surface.
LUKE
May The Force be with you. Biggs, Wedge, let’s close it up.
E221. EXT. SPACE AROUND THE DEATH STAR
(222)
Long Shot. Luke, Biggs and Wedge fly in formation high above
the Death Star surface.
F221. INT. BLUE LEADER’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(223)
CU. Blue Leader. The high altitude horizon twists as Blue Leader starts his dive toward the Death Star surface.
BLUE LEADER
Blue Ten, Blue Twelve, stay back until we spot those fighters, then cover me.
G221. EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR
(224)
Full Shot. Blue Leader’s X wing drops down to the surface leading to the exhaust port.
H221. EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR – ANOTHER ANGLE
(225)
Full Shot. X-Ten and X-Twelve drop toward the Death Star surface.
I221. EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR – ANOTHER ANGLE
(226)
Long Shot panning with Blue Leader in the trench. Blue Ten and Twelve keep moving further and further behind, until they drop out of frame.
J221. INT. BLUE LEADER’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(227)
CU. Blue Leader. The silence of the deep trench is spooky. Blue Leader looks around rather nervously, then double checks his instruments.
BLUE LEADER
This doesn’t seem right…
BLUE TEN
You should be able to see it by now.
BLUE LEADER
The magnetic disruption down here is unbelievable. I think my instruments are off. Is this the right trench?
K221. EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR
(228)
Tracking Full Shot. Blue Leader’s X wing races toward camera and zooms overhead. Blue Ten and Twelve can be seen far in the distance, as vaguely articulated points of light.
L221. INT. BLUE LEADER’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(229)
POV. from inside Blue Leader’s ship. As laserbolts begin to stream toward him from the end of the trench, the rebel craft begins to shudder under the turbulence.
M221. EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR
(230)
Blue Ten and Twelve blast through the wall of laser fire in the deep trench leading to the exhaust port.
N221. INT. BLUE LEADER’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(231)
CU. Blue Leader. Laserbolts streak around him in all directions.
BLUE LEADER
It’s not going to be easy with that tower there. Stand by to close up when I tell you.
(232)
Full Shot looking down on Blue Leader as he plows through
the trench filled with laser fire.
222. EXT. DEATH STAR – GUN EMPLACEMENT
(233)
Full Shot. A huge remote control laser cannon fires at the approaching rebel fighters.
A222. EXT. SPACE AROUND THE DEATH STAR
(234)
Full Shot. Laser streak across the black heavens.
B222. INT. BLUE LEADER’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(235)
POV. from inside Blue Leader’s fighter as he roams down the trench. Suddenly the laser stops.
C222. INT. BLUE LEADER’S STARSHIP – ANOTHER ANGLE – TRAVELING
(236)
CU. Blue leader looks around to watch for the tie fighters.
BLUE LEADER
This is it. Keep your eyes open for those fighters.
D222. EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR
(237)
Full Shot. Blue Ten and Twelve race along through the now
silent trench.
E222. INT. BLUE TEN’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(237A)
CU. Blue Ten looks around for the Imperial fighters.
BLUE TEN
All short and long range scopes are blank. There is too much interference… Blue Five, can you see them from where you are?
F222. INT. LUKE’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(238)
CU. Luke looks down at the Death Star surface far below.
LUKE
No sign of… wait! Coming in point three five.
G222. INT. BLUE TEN’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(239)
CU. Blue Ten looks up and see the Imperial fighters.
BLUE TEN
I see them.
H222. EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR
(240)
Full Shot. Three tie fighters dive in a tight formation. The sun reflects off their dominate solar fins, as they loop toward the Death Star surface.
I222. INT. BLUE LEADER’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(240A)
CU. Blue Leader pulls his targeting device in front of his eye and makes several adjustments.
BLUE LEADER
I’m in range. Targets ready… coming up… just hold them for a few seconds.
J222. INT. DARTH VADER’S FIGHTER – TRAVELING
(241)
CU. Vader adjusts his control lever and dives on the X wing fighters.
VADER
Close up the formation. I’ll take them myself.
K222. INT. DARTH VADER’S FIGHTER – ANOTHER ANGLE – TRAVELING
(242)
POV. from Vader’s tie ship as he rapidly approaches the
two X wings of Blue Ten and Twelve. Vader’s laser cannon flashes below the view of the front porthole.
L222. INT. BLUE TWELVE’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(243)
CU. Blue Twelve as his ship explodes filling the cockpit with smoke and flames.
M222. EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR
(244)
Full Shot. Blue Twelve explodes against the wall of the trench.
N222 INT. BLUE TEN’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(244A)
CU. Blue Ten works at his controls furiously trying to avoid the fighter behind him.
BLUE TEN
I can’t hold them. You’d better let it loose. We’re closing on you.
223. INT. BLUE LEADER’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(245)
CU. Blue Leader is concentrating on his targeting device.
BLUE LEADER
We’re almost home. Steady, steady.
A223. EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR
(246)
Full Shot. Blue Leader and Blue Ten race through the trench.
BLUE TEN
They’re right behind me.
B223. INT. BLUE LEADER’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(246A)
CU. Blue Leader takes careful aim and watches his computer targeting device.
C223. INSERT
(246B)
CU. computer targeting device as it lines up the target in the cross hairs and fires.
BLUE LEADER
Almost there, almost there… torpedoes away, torpedoes away.
(247) OMITTED
D223. EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR
(248)
Tracking Full Shot looking into trench as the two X wings pull up and zoom out the top of the frame, just before a huge explosion billows out of the trench.
(248A & B) TWO ADDITIONAL ANGLES TO STORYBOARD 248.
E223. INT. BLUE LEADER’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(248C)
CU. Blue Leader as he looks back at the receding Death Star.
(Tiny explosions visible in the distance).
BLUE TEN
It’s a hit, we’ve done it!!!
BLUE LEADER
No, we haven’t. It didn’t go in. It just exploded on the surface.
(249) OMITTED
F223. EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR
(250)
Full Shot. Vader and his two wing men race down the trench and zoom overhead.
G223. INT. DARTH VADER’S FIGHTER
(251)
CU. Vader as he pulls back on his control stick and the horizon zips through the port behind his head.
VADER
Take them…
H223. INSERT – TRIGGER
(252)
CU. Vader’s hand pulls the trigger of his laser cannon. The ship shudders as the laserbolt screams away.
I223. INT. DARTH VADER’S FIGHTER – ANOTHER ANGLE – TRAVELING
(253)
POV. from Vader’s ship as Blue Ten explodes, blowing debris toward camera.
J223. INT. DARTH VADER’S FIGHTER – ANOTHER ANGLE – TRAVELING
(253A)
CU. Vader as he swings his ship around for his next kill.
VADER
I’ll take him, you go back.
K223. EXT. SPACE AROUND THE DEATH STAR – TIE FIGHTER
(254)
Full Shot. Vader peels off in pursuit as Blue Leader’s X wing passes the Death Star horizon.
L223. INT. LUKE’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(255)
CU. Luke as he tries to spot Blue Leader.
BLUE LEADER
Blue Five, this is Blue Leader… Move into position, Luke. Start your attack run, stay low and wait until you’re right on top of it… it’s not going to be easy.
LUKE
Are you all right?
BLUE LEADER
They’re on top of me… but I’ll shake them.
LUKE
Blue Five to Blue pack… let’s go!
M223. EXT. SPACE AROUND THE DEATH STAR
(256)
Full Shot. High Altitude. The Death Star surface rushes toward the ships as they peel off and dive toward the trench.
N223. INT. BLUE LEADER’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(256A)
CU. Blue Leader flying over the medium altitude Death Star surface, glances back at Darth Vader, and dives to avoid him.
O223. EXT. SPACE AROUND THE DEATH STAR
(257)
Full Shot. Vader passes Blue Leader firing a laserbolt that creates a small explosion in one engine.
P223. EXT. BLUE LEADER’S STARSHIP – TRAVELING
(258)
CU. An R-2 unit scrambles back to the engine on Blue Leader’s X wing fighter in an attempt to repair it.
Q223. INT. BLUE LEADER’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(259)
CU. Blue Leader watches his readouts which are going wild.
BLUE LEADER
R-2, shut off the main feed to the starboard engine. Hang on tight, this could get rough.
(260) OMITTED
R223. INT. LUKE’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(261)
CU. Luke looks down at the Death Star surface.
LUKE
Blue Leader, we’re right above you. Turn to point oh five and we’ll cover for you.
BLUE LEADER
I’ve lost my starboard engine.
LUKE
We’ll come down.
BLUE LEADER
Stay there. Get set up for your attack run.
LUKE
Are you all right?
BLUE LEADER
I think so… stand by.
S223. INT. BLUE LEADER’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(261A)
POV. behind Blue Leader’s shoulder as he plows into the Death Star surface.
(262) OMITTED
T223. EXT. SPACE – DEATH STAR
(263)
Long Shot Tracking over high altitude of Death Star surface as Blue Leader buys it, creating a tremendous explosion far below. (Luke’s POV.)
U223. INT. LUKE’S STARSHIP – ANOTHER ANGLE – TRAVELING
(264)
CU. Luke looking out the window of his X wing at the explosion far below. (Off screen). For the first time he feels the helplessness of his situation.
LUKE
(Quietly)
We’ve lost Blue Leader…
(265) OMITTED
(266) OMITTED
(267) OMITTED
V223. INT. MASASSI OUTPOST – WAR ROOM
(268)
Dodonna and Princess Leia listen intently to the talk between pilots. The room is grim after Blue Leader’s death. Princess Leia nervously paces the room.
LEIA
(To Dodonna)
Can they go on?
DODONNA
They must.
LEIA
We’ve lost so many. Without Blue Leader, how will they regroup?
LUKE (V.O.)
Close it up, Wedge. Biggs, where are you?
BIGGS (V.O.)
Coming in, right behind you.
WEDGE (V.O.)
OK Boss, we’re in position.
Dodonna looks at Leia. He seems concerned.
W223. EXT. SPACE AROUND THE DEATH STAR
(269)
Full Shot. The three X wing fighters are lined up over the Death Star surface. The blurred horizon streaks by in the background.
X223. INT. LUKE’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(270)
CU. Luke with vertical Death Star horizon in background. He struggles with one of his controls which seems to be malfunctioning.
BEN’S VOICE
Trust your feelings, Luke.
Luke isn’t sure if he heard the voice or not. He taps his helmet intercom. His puzzled look gives way to concentration as he starts his run.
LUKE
Wedge, Biggs, we’re going in. We’ll go in full throttle. That should keep those fighters off us.
Y223. INT. BIGGS’ STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(270A)
CU. Biggs. Same blurred background.
BIGGS
We’ll stay back far enough to cover you. At that speed will you be able to pull out in time?
Z223. INT. WEDGE’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(271)
CU. Wedge. The horizon twists as he begins to pull out.
LUKE
It will be just like Beggars Canyon back home.
WEDGE
I’m right with you, boss. Let’s go…
224. EXT. SPACE AROUND THE DEATH STAR
(272)
Full Shot. Luke and Biggs peel off against a background of stars and dive out of frame.
A224. INT. LUKE’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(273)
X wing POV. as Luke dives toward the Death Star surface. At the last possible moment, he pulls out of his dive and skims the metallic terrain. Laser fire begins to stream toward camera from the horizon.
B224. INT. LUKE’S STARSHIP – ANOTHER ANGLE – TRAVELING
(274)
CU. Luke. Flak and laserbolts flash outside the cockpit window.
BIGGS
We seem to have upset them.
LUKE
This is fine. I can see everything.
WEDGE
My scope shows the tower, but I can’t see the exhaust port. It must be awfully small. Are you sure the computer can hit it?
C224. EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR
(275)
Full Shot. Luke’s X wing streaks through the trench leading to the exhaust port. Flak and lasers are everywhere. Pan with him as he goes.
D224. EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR – ANOTHER ANGLE
(276)
Full Shot of Biggs and Wedge as they charge through the trench. Pan up with them as they pull away.
E224. INT. LUKE’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(277)
POV. out window of Luke’s X wing as he approaches the target. The laserbolts streaming past suddenly stop.
F224. INT. LUKE’S STARSHIP – ANOTHER ANGLE – TRAVELING
(278)
CU. Luke. He looks around for the Imperial tie fighters. He thinks for a moment and then moves his targeting device into position.
LUKE
Watch yourself. Increase your speed full throttle.
WEDGE
What about that tower?
LUKE
You worry about those fighters. I’ll worry about the tower.
G224. INT. LUKE’S STARSHIP – ANOTHER ANGLE – TRAVELING
(279)
POV. through computer sight as it marks off the distance to the target.
H224. INT. WEDGE’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(280)
CU. Wedge as he looks up and sees the tie ships.
WEDGE
Coming in… point three.
I224. EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR
(281)
Full Shot. Vader and his wing men zoom toward camera.
J224. INT. DARTH VADER’S FIGHTER – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(282)
CU. Vader adjusts his controls.
VADER’S WINGMAN
They’re making the approach too fast.
VADER
Stay with them.
WINGMAN ONE
They’re going too fast to get a fix.
K224. INT. DARTH VADER’S FIGHTER – ANOTHER ANGLE – TRAVELING
(283)
POV. over Vader’s shoulder at Biggs’ X wing flying down trench.
VADER
They’ll have to slow down before they reach that tower…
L224. EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR
(284)
Full Pan Shot across trench wall as Biggs and Wedge race after Luke.
M224. INT. LUKE’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(285)
CU. Luke looking into targeting device.
LUKE
Almost home.
N224. INT. LUKE’S STARSHIP – ANOTHER ANGLE – TRAVELING
(286)
CU. computer readout as it homes in on the target and fires at the exhaust port.
LUKE
Torpedoes away! Pull up. Pull up.
O224. INT. LUKE’S STARSHIP – ANOTHER ANGLE – TRAVELING
(287)
POV. from Luke’s ship as the torpedoes head for the exhaust port and explode, harmlessly to one side.
(288) OMITTED
P224. EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR
(289)
Full Shot. The explosion billows out of the trench. A tie fighter races out of the fire ball.
Q224. INT. DARTH VADER’S FIGHTER – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(290)
CU. Vader as he moves in on the three X wings.
VADER
Take them.
R224. INT. LUKE’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(291)
CU. Luke as he soars above the Death Star trying to evade Darth Vader.
LUKE
Wedge, Biggs, split up… it’s the only way we’ll shake them.
S224. EXT. DEATH STAR SURFACE
(292)
Full Shot. Luke, Biggs and Wedge’s X wings dive toward the Death Star surface, and split up. Luke’s ship goes off camera left.
T224. EXT. SPACE – TIE FIGHTERS
(292A)
Full Shot of the Imperial tie fighters in pursuit. They go after Luke.
U224. INT. DARTH VADER’S FIGHTER – COCKPIT – TRAVELING U224
(292B) (292B)
CU. Vader as he fires on Luke.
VADER
The Force is strong with this one. I’ll take him myself.
V224. EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR
(293)
Full Shot. Luke’s X wing zooms overhead as a laserbolt streaks past him, kicking one of his wings close to the engine.
W224. INT. LUKE’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(294)
CU. Luke. The left engine begins to spark as he fights to regain control of his wavering ship. He dives down into the trench.
LUKE
I’m hit… but not bad… Artoo, see what you can do with it.
X224. EXT. LUKE’S STARSHIP
(295)
CU. Artoo pops out of his nest and starts to repair the damaged engine fin. The canyon wall rushes by in the background making his delicate task seem even more precarious.
Y224. INT. LUKE’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(296)
POV. from inside Luke’s cockpit as he maneuvers through some protruding towers in the trench.
LUKE
Hang on back there.
Z224. EXT. LUKE’S STARSHIP – TRAVELING
(296A)
CU. Artoo as the ship bobs and waves past the towers.
225. EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR
(297)
Full Shot Tracking with Luke’s X wing as it streaks across the trench surface. Flak and lasers erupt from the Death Star surface. Artoo is working on the back engine.
A225. INT. LUKE’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(298)
CU. Luke as the flak and lasers streak around him.
LUKE
I think you’ve got it Artoo, I thin that’s it… just try to lock it down.
B225. EXT. SPACE AROUND THE DEATH STAR
(299)
Lasers streak across the star filled sky.
C225. INT. DEATH STAR
(300)
Medium Shot. An Imperial gunner fires away at Luke’s ship.
D225. INT. LUKE’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(301)
CU. Luke looks around in all directions. The lasers and flak pound all around him.
LUKE
I think we lost those fighters, Artoo. Blue Group, this is Blue Five. Are you clear?
E225. EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR
(302)
Full Shot. Luke’s X wing flies up out of the laser infested trench and zooms out of the top of the frame.
F225. INT. WEDGE’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(303)
CU. Wedge flies high over the Death Star.
WEDGE
I’m up here waiting, boss.
LUKE
I’m on my way… Blue Three are you clear?… Biggs.
G225. INT. BIGGS’ STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(303A)
Biggs flies high over the Death Star.
BIGGS
I’ve had some trouble, but I think I’ve lost him…
H225. EXT. SPACE AROUND THE DEATH STAR
(304)
Full Shot. Biggs speeds over the high altitude horizon.
I225. EXT. SPACE AROUND THE DEATH STAR – ANOTHER ANGLE
(304A)
An Imperial tie fighter drops in behind him, and he peels off and dives for the Death Star surface, trying to avoid it.
J225. INT. BIGGS’ STARSHIP – TRAVELING
(305)
CU. Biggs as he twists out of his dive.
BIGGS
Hold on Luke, I’ll be right there.
(306) OMITTED
(307) OMITTED
K225. INT. WAR ROOM – MASASSI OUTPOST
(308)
Princess Leia returns her general’s worried and doubtful
glances with a solid grim determination. Threepio seems nervous.
THREEPIO
Hang on Artoo, hang on!
L225. EXT. SPACE AROUND THE DEATH STAR
(309)
Full Shot. Luke and Wedge’s X wing fighters close up high on the Death Star surface.
M225. INT. LUKE’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(310)
CU. Luke, high over the Death Star looks around for Biggs.
LUKE
We’re goin’ in Biggs, join up… Biggs are you all right?… Biggs. Wedge, do you see him anywhere?
Luke looks out of his cockpit down to his right.
N225. INT. LUKE’S STARSHIP – ANOTHER ANGLE – TRAVELING
(311)
POV. out Luke’s window of Wedge’s X wing bobbing along right next to Luke’s ship.
O225. INT. WEDGE’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(312)
CU. Wedge looks up to his left a Luke.
WEDGE
Nothing… wait a little longer, he’ll show.
P225. INT. LUKE’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(313)
CU. Luke makes one final look around.
LUKE
We can’t wait, we’ve got to go now… I don’t think he made it.
BIGGS
(Radio breaking up)
Hey you guys, what are you waiting for?
Luke looks behind him to his right.
Q225. INT. LUKE’S STARSHIP – ANOTHER ANGLE – TRAVELING
(314)
POV. inside Luke’s cockpit of Biggs’ X wing roaring past the cockpit window and pulling out ahead of Luke.
R225. INT. BIGGS’ STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(315)
CU. Biggs as he looks back at Luke.
BIGGS
Don’t ever give up on old Biggs…
(316) OMITTED
S225. EXT. SPACE AROUND THE DEATH STAR
(317)
Full Shot of the three X wings in formation above the Death Star surface. The horizon races by behind them.
SS225. INT. DEATH STAR CONTROL ROOM
An officer approaches Governor Tarkin.
OFFICER
Sir, we analyzed their attack plan, and there is a danger. Should we make plans to evacuate? Your ship is standing by.
TARKIN
Evacuate! On our moment of triumph? I think you overestimate their chances.
T225. INT. MASASSI OUTPOST – WAR ROOM
(318)
Everyone seems frozen in place as they wait for Luke to make his run. One of the generals shakes his head. The Princess moves next to Dodonna and he gives her a reassuring look.
U225. INT. LUKE’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(319)
CU. Luke as he starts his dive. The Death Star surface races up behind him.
LUKE
We’re going in.
BEN’S VOICE
Let go… Luke.
Luke looks up to see where the voice is coming from.
V225. INT. LUKE’S STARSHIP – ANOTHER ANGLE – TRAVELING
(320)
Luke dives toward the Death Star surface, then at the last minute, levels off and skims the surface. Lasers start to stream toward him.
W225. INT. LUKE’S STARSHIP – ANOTHER ANGLE – TRAVELING
(321)
CU. cockpit control board, light and shadows dance across the humming dashboard.
X225. INT. LUKE’S STARSHIP – ANOTHER ANGLE – TRAVELING
(322)
CU. Luke. Lasers and flak burst around him everywhere.
LUKE
Artoo, that stabilizer has broken loose again. See if you can’t lock it down.
226. EXT. LUKE’S STARSHIP
(323)
CU. Artoo. Ignoring the bumpy ride, flak and lasers, Artoo struggles to repair the engines.
A226. INT. LUKE’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(324)
POV. out Luke’s window. Lasers and flak streak by, buffeting the ship, as he approaches the target.
B226. EXT. SPACE AROUND THE DEATH STAR
(325)
Full Shot as Luke streaks out of the distance and over the camera. Biggs and Wedge can be seen as light points far in the distance. Lasers are everywhere.
C226. INT. LUKE’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(326)
CU. Luke as he thinks about using the targeting device and then rather hesitantly pulls it down in front of his eye. Lasers and flak burst around him.
D226. INT. LUKE’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(327)
POV. out Luke’s cockpit window. As he approaches the target, suddenly the lasers and flak stop. The X wing races toward its destiny in the now silent and eerie trench.
E226. INT. WEDGE’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(328)
CU. Wedge riding low in the trench, looks up and sees Vader and his men approach.
WEDGE
Here we go again.
F226. EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR
(329)
Full Shot. Vader and his men zooming across the Death Star trench.
G226. INT. DARTH VADER’S FIGHTER – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(330)
CU. Vader as he adjusts his control stick.
H226. INT. DARTH VADER’S FIGHTER – ANOTHER ANGLE – TRAVELING
(331)
POV. out Vader’s window as he races through the trench. Far in the distance Biggs and Wedge try to cover for Luke. Vader gains on the two X wings.
I226. INT. LUKE’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(332)
CU. Luke looking into his targeting device. He moves it away for a moment and ponders its use. He looks back into the computer targeter.
J226. INT. LUKE’S STARSHIP – ANOTHER ANGLE – TRAVELING
(332A)
CU. computer targeting device as it calculates the ship’s relationship to the exhaust port.
K226. INT. BIGGS’ STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(333)
CU. Biggs as he looks around at the tie fighter.
BIGGS
Hurry Luke. They’re coming in much faster this time. We can’t hold them.
L226. INT. VADER’S FIGHTER – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(334)
Close shot of tie fighter racing overhead.
M226. INT. VADER’S FIGHTER – ANOTHER ANGLE – TRAVELING
(334A)
CU. Vader as he squeezes the fire button on his controls.
N226. INT. BIGGS’ STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(335)
CU. Biggs as the cockpit explodes around him.
BIGGS
Wait… wait…
O226. EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR
(336)
Full Shot as Biggs ship bursts into a million flaming bits and scatters across the surface.
P226. INT. WEDGE’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(336A)
CU. Wedge as he reacts to Biggs’ death and frantically looks around for the tie fighters.
WEDGE
We lost Biggs.
Q226. EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR
(337)
Full Shot of Luke’s X wing streaking through the trench.
R226. INT. LUKE’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(338)
CU. Luke, reacting to Biggs death. His eyes are watering but his anger is also growing as he repeats his friends boast…
LUKE
We’re a couple of shooting star, Biggs… and we’ll never be stopped.
The trench races behind him. His ship shakes a little.
LUKE
Close it up, Wedge. You can’t do anymore good back there. Artoo, try to increase the power.
S226. EXT. LUKE’S STARSHIP – TRAVELING
(339)
CU. Artoo as he moves to repair the damaged stabilizer.
T226. EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR
(340)
Full Shot Luke racing through the trench as Wedge pulls up alongside of him.
U226. EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR – ANOTHER ANGLE
(341)
Full Shot. The three tie fighters zoom through the trench after the X wing fighters.
V226. INT. VADER’S FIGHTER – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(342)
CU. Vader as he takes aim on Luke and talks to his wing man.
VADER
I’m on the leader, take the other ones…
W226. INT. VADER’S FIGHTER – ANOTHER ANGLE – TRAVELING
(343)
POV. through Vader’s scope as he tries to take aim on Luke’s constantly bobbing and weaving X wing. Luke is right in front of Wedge on his left side.
X226. INT. LUKE’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(344)
CU. Luke concentrating on his targeting device, hardly noticing the laserbolts streaking around him from Vader’s ship. The X wing shudders under the impact of a flak burst.
Y226. EXT. LUKE’S STARSHIP – TRAVELING
(344A)
CU. Artoo as the flak explodes around him.
Z226. INT. WEDGE’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(344B)
CU. Wedge. His ship wavers as he struggles to gain control as there are several small electrical flashes as the control panel explodes. He gets the ship under control.
WEDGE I’ve got a malfunction Luke… I can’t stay with you…
LUKE
O.K. Wedge, get clear.
WEDGE
Sorry…
227. EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR
(345)
Full Shot. The two X wings charging through the trench. Wedge peels off and rises out of frame.
228. INT. DARTH VADER’S FIGHTER – TRAVELING
(346)
POV. from Vader’s ship as he bears down on Luke, who maneuvers his ship around trying to avoid the tie fighters. Artoo can be seen adjusting the rear deflectors.
A228. INT. DARTH VADER’S FIGHTER – ANOTHER ANGLE
(347)
CU. Vader as he fires on the X wing.
229. EXT. LUKE’S STARSHIP – TRAVELING
(347A)
CU. Artoo as a large burst of flak engulfs him, leaving a smoking shell of twisted metal where little Artoo once stood. The arms go limp on the smoking little droid.
230. EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR
(348)
Full Overhead Pan. Three tie fighters charging away down the trench toward Luke.
231. EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR – ANOTHER ANGLE
(349)
Full Shot tracking behind one of Vader’s wing men as a laser- bolt streaks in and blasts it to smithereens. Flaming debris rushes past camera.
232. INT. TIE FIGHTER – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(350)
CU. Vader’s other wing man as he looks up to see what’s going on.
WING MAN
Wha…
233. INT. TIE FIGHTER – ANOTHER ANGLE – TRAVELING
(351)
Full shot wing man’s POV. Out of the sun charges Han Solo in his pirate mantor-ship heading right for the tie ships.
234. INT. TIE FIGHTER – ANOTHER ANGLE – TRAVELING
(352)
CU. Vader’s wing man panics at the sight of the pirate ship diving for him, and yanks back on his control stick in an attempt to avoid collision.
235. EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR
(353 & 353A)
Full Tracking Shot looking down on the tie fighters racing through the trench. Han swoops over in the foreground, causing the wing man to peel off, hitting Vader as he goes. There is a small explosion where the two giant colored fins collide. As soon as the wing man leaves frame, his ship explodes. Vader starts spinning out of frame.
236. INT. VADER’S FIGHTER – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(354)
CU. Vader. The impact of the collision throws Vader out of control and creates havoc on his control board. He looks around frantically trying to salvage his situation.
(355) OMITTED
237. EXT. SPACE AROUND THE DEATH STAR
(356)
Full Shot of Vader’s ship spinning out of control with a bent solar fin, heading for deep space.
238. EXT. SPACE AROUND THE DEATH STAR – ANOTHER ANGLE
(357)
Full Shot of pirate starship as it swings around and heads back toward Luke. Stars and Death Star horizon in the background.
239. INT. PIRATE STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(358)
CU. Han and Chewbacca grinning ear to ear.
HAN
You’re all clear, kid. Now blow this thing so we can go home.
(359) OMITTED
240. INT. LUKE’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(360)
CU. Luke as he looks up and smiles, then looks back into the targeting device.
BEN’S VOICE
Luke… trust me.
He has second thoughts, then moves it away. A grim determination sweeps across his face as he closes his eyes and starts to mumble to himself.
BASE (V.O.)
Base to Blue five, your targeting device is switched off. What’s wrong?
LUKE
Nothing.
241. INT. LUKE’S STARSHIP – ANOTHER ANGLE – TRAVELING
(360A)
CU. Luke’s hand switches the computer targeting to manual and pushes the button.
242. EXT. SPACE AROUND THE DEATH STAR
(361)
Long Shot Tracking POV. of the torpedoes shooting toward the Death Star surface. The exhaust port is not visible at this distance and the torpedoes seem to simply disappear into the surface and not explode.
243. EXT. DEATH STAR – EXHAUST PORT
(362)
Stand by Insert (Tracking POV.) Close shot of torpedoes going into exhaust port.
244. INT. WEDGE’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(363)
CU. Wedge flying high over the Death Star surface looking down at the exhaust port.
WEDGE
You did it! You did it! They went right in…
245. INT. PIRATE STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(363A)
CU. Han and Chewbacca high over Death Star. Chewbacca is
howling for joy.
HAN
Good shot, kid. That was one in a million…
246. INT. LUKE’S STARSHIP – COCKPIT – TRAVELING
(363B)
CU. Luke as he rises high above the Death Star. (The horizon drops away to stars). His ship shudders from distant rumbling, muted explosions.
LUKE
Glad you were here to see it… now let’s get some distance before that thing goes supernova.
247. EXT. LUKE’S STARSHIP – TRAVELING
(363C)
CU. a blackened, smoldering Artoo still clings to Luke’s ship.
248. EXT. SPACE AROUND YAVIN
(364)
Long Shot Yavin. Several X wing, Y wing and the pirate ship race over the camera toward Yavin in the distance.
249. EXT. SPACE AROUND THE DEATH STAR
(365)
Long Shot. The rebel ship racing out of frame leaving the moon-like Death Star alone against a blanket of stars. Several small flashes appear on the surface.
250 EXT. SPACE AROUND THE DEATH STAR – ANOTHER ANGLE
(366)
Long Shot. The Death Star supernova creating a spectacular heavenly display.
251 INT. MASASSI OUTPOST – MAIN HANGAR
Luke climbs out of his starship fighter and is cheered by a throng of ground crew and pilots. The fried little Artoo is lifted off the back of the ship and carried off under the worried eyes of Threepio.
THREEPIO
Oh my! Artoo? Can you hear me? Say something. You can repair him can’t you?
TECHNICIAN
We’ll do our best.
THREEPIO
You must repair him! Sir, if any of my circuits or gears will help, I’ll gladly donate them.
Han, Chewbacca and Luke are slapping one another on the back and congratulating themselves.
LUKE
I knew you’d come back! I just knew it! I would’ve been nothing but space dust if you hadn’t sailed in like that Han!
HAN
Well I couldn’t very well let a flying farmboy go up against that battle station by himself. Besides, I felt terrible about it Luke… leaving you to take all the credit and get all the reward.
They all laugh, Luke turns to see Leia rushing toward them.
LEIA
You did it Luke! You did it.
She hugs Luke and he spins her around. And then she goes over to Han. She grabs him, hugging him and laughing.
LEIA
And you… I knew there was more to you than money.
Luke makes a short glance up to the ceiling, almost expecting to see Ben there. A warm smile crosses his face.
252 INT. MASASSI OUTPOST – MAIN THRONE ROOM
Luke, Threepio, Han and Chewbacca enter the huge ruins of the main temple. Hundreds of troops are lined up in neat rows. Banners are flying and at the far end stands a vision in white, the beautiful young Senator Leia. Luke and the others solemnly march up the long aisle and kneel before Senator Leia. From one side of the temple marches a shined up and fully repaired Artoo-Detoo. He waddles up to the group and stands next to Threepio who is rather awestruck by the whole event. Chewbacca is confused. Dodonna and several other dignitaries sit on the left of Princess Leia. Leia is dressed in a long, white dress and is staggeringly beautiful. She rises and places a gold medallion around Han’s neck, then repeats the ceremony with Luke. They turn and face the assembled troops, who all bow before them.
FADE OUT
END CREDITS
THE END
