A Long Long Time Ago, 46 Years Ago Today, the Greatest Sequel Ever Made Hit Theaters
"A long long time ago... In a galaxy far far away" is one of the most iconic opening titles in film history. Forty-six years ago, it appeared across the screen to set off what is widely considered the greatest sequel ever made.
On May 21, 1980, Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back, the gold standard of a franchise foundational to pop culture and fandom, debuted in theaters.
'The Empire Strikes Back' released 46 years ago today pic.twitter.com/XQpZMTiZBD
— Culture Crave (@CultureCrave) May 21, 2026
The second chapter of George Lucas' outer-space epic - filled with creatures, mythical powers and destruction - took the world by storm just as its predecessor had in 1977. Not only did the sequel live up to the original, but many considered it even better than the beloved first film.
Directed by Irvin Kershner,Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back features several all-time memorable moments in cinema, including Luke Skywalker and Darth Vader squaring off for the first time, the introduction of Yoda, and the first kiss between Han Solo and Princess Leia.
Most notably, the revered masterpiece contains what is possibly the greatest twist ever, with Vader revealing the relationship he shares with Luke. Over the nearly five decades since its release, the famous line has become one of the most quoted in movie history.
"I am your father."
— Blaze Binges (@BlazeBinges) May 21, 2026
46 years ago today, Star Wars: Empire Strikes Back dropped the biggest plot twist in cinema history. pic.twitter.com/rsZ1JU74pE
Taking the No. 1 spot at the box office in 1980, the movie became the definition of a cultural phenomenon. Star Wars became unavoidable through toys, clothes, lunch boxes and nearly anything a design could be printed on - and it has remained that way ever since.
Numerous rankings, including Collider's "Greatest Sci-Fi Sequels Ever" list, place Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back among the greatest film sequels ever made.
The movie has had a cultural impact that few works in any industry can compare to.
This weekend, the 12th live-action Star Wars movie, Star Wars:The Mandalorian & Grogu, lands in theaters, continuing the storied adventure.
This story was originally published by Men's Journal on May 21, 2026, where it first appeared in the Entertainment section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
2026 The Arena Group Holdings, Inc. All rights reserved.
This story was originally published May 21, 2026 at 11:58 AM.