A Critical View of Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back - Asteroid Field Subplot

Introduction:

While The Empire Strikes Back is widely celebrated as one of the best entries in the Star Wars saga, one subplot in particular has always stood out to me as requiring a Death Star sized suspension of disbelief - the asteroid field sequence. This article will explore the criticisms and justifications for the plot choices in this iconic scene, providing insights into fan and expert opinions.

The Aerial Subplot

At the heart of the asteroid field sequence is a thrilling aerial chase involving the Millennium Falcon and four Imperial TIE Fighters. While the action is exhilarating, it does not come without its share of hole-punching moments. One such moment is the execution of our heroes' hiding strategy, a necessity driven by the presence of an Imperial Star Destroyer.

In the original A New Hope version, Obi-Wan Kenobi enters the Mos Eisley Cantina with a relatively gentle warning, escalating the conflict only minimally. However, the addition of a more intense fight scene for the Special Edition comes with its own criticisms, as it changes the pace and tone of the film.

Suspension of Disbelief: The Asteroid Field

The asteroid field sequence itself is a prime example of a plot choice that demands a significant bending of reality. The first part of the sequence, with Han Solo dodging Imperial TIE Fighters in a desperate dash through the asteroid field, is thrilling and well-executed. However, the subsequent events require a suspension of disbelief that, for some, is hard to swallow.

The Mynocks: These flying creatures, which feast on the power cables of the Millennium Falcon, are a bit unrealistic. Living in the vacuum of space, with no atmosphere, these creatures defy the laws of physics. The frequency of encounters and the lack of other ships in the same area raise questions about the number of Mynocks and their logistical challenges. The Walk in Zero Gravity: More problematic is the next part of the sequence, where Han Solo, Leia Organa, and Chewbacca walk around outside the ship in zero gravity, using only small rubber face masks for protection. This aspect of the scene stretches the plausibility to its limits, as the laws of physics in space dictate that objects, including characters, would freely float without the constraints of gravity. The Giant Space Slug: Perhaps the most audacious plot point in the sequence is the discovery of the asteroid's true identity: the belly of a giant space slug. This creature's existence, large enough to contain a spaceship, is a stretch, and it is difficult to reconcile with the earlier assertions about the odds of successfully navigating an asteroid field.

Ironically, the very plausibility of an asteroid field with such dangerous creatures and the presence of a slug large enough to contain a ship, suggests a far more densely populated environment than the probabilities previously established would allow. This inconsistency only heightens the challenge of performing the necessary suspension of disbelief.

Conclusion:

The asteroid field sequence in The Empire Strikes Back is a memorable and thrilling part of the film, but it is also a prime example of a plot choice that demands a significant suspension of disbelief. For many viewers, the Mynocks, the walk in zero gravity, and the giant space slug push the limits of what can be believed within the context of the Star Wars universe. While these plot elements contribute to the film's overall magic, they also raise questions about the consistency of the storytelling.

Despite these criticisms, the asteroid field continues to be a standout scene, a testament to the film's efforts to create a rich and immersive space adventure. For fans of the series, analyzing such plot elements provides a deeper appreciation for the balance between entertainment and realism in the Star Wars universe.