The original Star Wars film, later retitled Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope, premieres and becomes a cultural phenomenon, setting the stage for its sequels including The Empire Strikes Back.
Principal photography for The Empire Strikes Back starts, marking the beginning of production for the highly anticipated sequel to Star Wars.
The Empire Strikes Back, the second installment in the original Star Wars trilogy, premieres in theaters and receives critical acclaim, solidifying its place as a classic.
The Empire Strikes Back is released for home viewing on VHS, expanding its audience and allowing fans to watch the film repeatedly.