Empire Strikes Back makes a 40th anniversary comeback at local Regal Cinemas

Tonight, “Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back,” will roll that famous intro story on the screen as the orchestra plays that epic opening song.

 

In that bright yellow sans serif font reads, “It is a dark time for the Rebellion. Although the Death Star has been destroyed, Imperial troops have driven the Rebel forces from their hidden base and pursued them across the galaxy. 

“Evading the dreaded Imperial Starfleet, a group of freedom fighters led by Luke Skywalker has established a new secret base on the remote ice world of Hoth.”

 

Regal Theatres are bringing back classic movies and charging $5 for adults and $3 for kids to see them. The Regal Family Features promotion is meant to bring some of the all time favorites back at an affordable cost.

 

When Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back debuted 40 years ago in 1980, I was 13 years old. I remember playing the sheet music to some of the hit scores of the movie series in band on my sax or clarinet and, at home on the piano, I worked so hard to get composer John Wililiams’ “Cantina Band” score down.

 

I have a memory of seeing it on the big screen and, although our family of five didn’t get out to the movies often, this particular film I remember seeing vividly.

 

My husband and I were not high school sweethearts so taking him on a date to see this flick at Regal Celebration Pointe was a treat. It was like going back in time and taking your lifelong best friend to the movies with your childhood self.

 

We were spellbound and filled our large popcorn three times.

 

A lot has changed in the world and the way we do things, but what hasn’t changed is the thrill of being surrounded by sights and sounds, sitting in a dark theater chomping hot buttery popcorn, and having your friend or spouse by your side while experiencing a movie on the big screen.

 

Since reopening, our local theaters have stepped up to observe social distancing, mask requirements and disinfecting theaters after each show.

We counted just 10 people in the theater that could seat about 300 moviegoers.

 

Our movie theaters are hurting. They’re open, but they are hurting.

If you have any concerns about seeing a movie at a theater, click here to see what steps they are taking to make the space, “Cinema Safe.”

 

Alachua County has three movie theaters all operated by Regal and they have been open since Aug. 21st. 

 

If you’re like us and have an annual unlimited pass, it’s time to go back and take advantage of any movie, anytime, as many times as you want for about $22 a month. 

 

Read more about unlimited passes and the concession stand discounts that come with.

 

The $5 Classics and new blockbusters are playing in all three locations. And the hot buttered popcorn is waiting.