Return of the Jedi was the most successful summer film release of 1983. As it should have been, given its imaginative sweep, colorful characters, and ambitious mythology. In Star Wars, George Lucas gave us R2-D2 and C-3PO as lovable automata. In this third film of the series, technology receives different treatment.

Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, Lando Calrissian, R2-D2, C-3PO and Chewbacca arrive in the desert world of Tatooine to rescue Han Solo. They then join other rebels to confront the powers of the evil Empire. Before the exciting finale, Luke and Leia discover the true nature of their relationship, Yoda dies in his sleep at the age of 900 years, Luke learns the truth about his father and proves he is a true Jedi knight, much to the dismay of the Emperor, by repeatedly resisting "the dark side."

While the forces of the Rebel Alliance wait to attack the Emperor's new armored space station, Han and a small band of cohorts attempt to destroy the fortress's protective shield. The day is saved by the Ewoks, a band of Teddy Bear-like creatures who live in a woodland area. Using guerrilla warfare tactics, these primitive spear carriers defeat the Storm Troopers and Imperial Walkers who have all the latest technological weapons at their disposal.

The message of Return of the Jedi is that unless technology is accompanied by the intuitive Force, it is nothing more than nuts and bolts. The ultimate intergalactic kill machine is blown away before our eyes.