THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK
SHOOTING SCRIPT
FOURTH DRAFT
BY
LAWRENCE KASDAN

Fourth Draft
October 24, 1978
Lucasfilm Ltd.

 

1. EXT PLAIN OF HOTH - HELICOPTER SHOT - DAY

A white snowscape races toward camera... the MAIN TITLE quickly recedes, followed by a roll-up.

Episode V:
THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK...
After the destruction of its most feared battle station,
the Empire has declared martial law throughout the galaxy.

A thousand worlds have felt the oppressive hand of the Emperor
as He attempts to crush the growing rebellion.

As the Imperial grip of tyranny tightens, Princess Leia and the small band of
freedom fighters search for a more secure base of operations...

The roll-up disappears into the bleak horizon.

2. EXT PLAIN OF HOTH - HELICOPTER SHOT - DAY

The camera tilts down bringing into view a small figure galloping across the windswept ice slope.

3. EXT PLAIN OF HOTH - DAY

A closer panning shot reveals a bundled rider on a large gray snow lizard, called a TAUNTAUN. Curving plumes of snow rise from beneath the speeding paws of the two-legged beast.

4. EXT PLAIN OF HOTH - SLOPE - DAY

The rider gallops up a slope and reins his lizard to a stop.

5. EXT PLAINS OF HOTH - SLOPE - DAY

He pulls off his protective goggles. It is LUKE SKYWALKER. He notices something in the sky and takes a pair of electro-binoculars from his utility belt.

6. EXT PLAIN OF HOTH - LUKE'S POV - DAY

From LUKE'S POV, we follow a bright object as it falls to the ground. On the distant horizon, an explosion marks the point of impact.

7. EXT PLAIN OF HOTH - SLOPE - DAY

The wind whips at Luke's fur-lined cap as he activates a com-link transmitter. His lizard is nervous.

LUKE
(to the Tauntaun)
Easy girl, it's just another meteorite.
(into com-link)
Han... Han ol' buddy, do you read me?

After a little static a familiar voice is heard.

HAN (OS)
(filtered)
Loud and clear, kid. What's up?

LUKE
I've finished my circle and I haven't picked up any life readings.

HAN (OS)
(filtered)
There isn't enough life on this ice cube to fill a space cruiser. My sentry markers are placed. I'm heading back to the base.

LUKE
I'll see you shortly. A meteorite just hit the ground near here and I want to check it out... Won't be long.

8. EXT PLAIN OF HOTH - SLOPE - DAY

Luke clicks off his transmitter and reins back on his lizard, which seems frightened. Luke pats the beast on the head to calm it.

LUKE
Weeho, girl! What's the matter... you smell something? There's nothing out there. I'll check again...

Luke takes a small device from his belt and starts to adjust it when suddenly a large shadow falls over him from behind, followed by a monstrous HOWL. Luke turns and looks up at an eleven foot high shape towering over him.

LUKE
Son of a jumping...!!!

He grabs for his pistol, but is HIT flat in the face by a huge, white claw, knocking him into the snow, bloody and unconscious.

9. CLOSE-UP LUKE

Luke falls unconscious into the snow. The terrified screams of the Tauntaun are cut short by the horrible snap of a neck being broken.

10. EXT PLAIN OF HOTH - SLOPE - DAY

The WAMPA ICE MONSTER grabs Luke by one ankle and drags him away.

11. EXT METEORITE CRATER - SNOW PLAIN - DAY

A WEIRD MECHANICAL SOUND is heard over the whining of the wind. A strange PROBE ROBOT, with several extended sensors, emerges from the smoke-shrouded crater. The ominous robot FLOATS across the snow plain, and disappears into the distance.

12. EXT ICE CAVES - REBEL BASE ENTRANCE - DAY

A stalwart figure rides his Tauntaun up to the entrance of an enormous ice cave.

13. INT MAIN HANGAR DECK - REBEL BASE

Rebel troopers are rushing about unloading supplies and otherwise securing their new base. The rider swings rakishly off his lizard and pulls away his goggles: HAN SOLO. He walks briskly into the main

hangar deck toward the MILLENNIUM FALCON, which is parked among several fighters. Mechanics, R-2 units and various other droids hurry about. Han stops at the Millennium Falcon. His Wookiee co-pilot is welding on the back of a central lifter. Now he stops work and lifts his face shield; CHEWIE growls a greeting to his boss.

HAN
Cold isn't the word for it, Chewie. I'll take a good fight any day over all this hidin' and freezin'!... How you coming with those lifters?

The Wookiee GRUMBLES a reply.

HAN
All right. I'll go report then I'll give you a hand with them. Soon as those lifters are fixed, we're out of here.

Chewbacca lets out with a joyful CHUCKLE and returns to his work as Han leaves.

14. INT COMMAND CENTER - ICE CAVE

A makeshift command center has been set up in a blaster area of thick ice. The low-ceilinged room is a beehive of activity. Controllers, troopers, and droids move about setting up electronic equipment and monitoring radar signals. GENERAL RIEEKAN straightens up from a console as Han approaches.

RIEEKAN
Captain Solo. What's the situation?

HAN
There isn't a hint of life in the area. But all the perimeter markers are set, so you'll know if anyone comes calling.

RIEEKAN
Good, and Commander Skywalker?

HAN
He's checking out a meteorite that hit near him. He'll be in soon.

RIEEKAN
(indicates radar screen)
With all the meteor activity in this system, it's going to be difficult to spot approaching ships.

HAN
The Empire won't look for you out here. I'd say you're all set... which means it's time for me to get going.

LEIA (OS)
You're leaving?

The two men turn to see PRINCESS LEIA, dressed in a short white combat jacket and pants. She is upset by Han's news. Her hair is braided and tied across her head in a "30's" Nordic fashion...

HAN
That's right.

RIEEKAN
You're an extraordinary fighter. I hate to lose you.

HAN
Thank you, General. But there's a price on my head. If I don't pay off Jabba the Hutt, I'm a walking dead man.

RIEEKAN
I understand. A death mark is not an easy thing to live with... Until our paths cross again, may the force be with you.

Rieekan touches Han and moves away. Han turns to Leia.

HAN
(with feeling)
I guess this is it, Your Highness.

Leia is angry. Han sees she has no warmth to offer him. He shakes his head and adopts a cooler tone.

HAN
Well, don't get all mushy on me. So long, Princess.

Han walks away. Leia stews a moment, then follows him.

15. INT ICE CORRIDOR - REBEL BASE - HOTH

Han strides down a corridor carved from the ice. Leia follows quickly, agitated. Behind them, unnoticed, an appendage of a Wampa Ice Monster suddenly detaches from a seemingly solid section of ice wall.

LEIA
Han!

Han stops in the quiet corridor and turns to face Leia.

HAN
Yes, Your Highness?

LEIA
You said you were going to stay. What happened?

HAN
That bounty hunter we ran into on Ord Mantell changed my mind.

LEIA
Does Luke know?

HAN
He'll know when he gets back... Don't give me that look. Every day more bounty hunters are searching for me. If I don't pay off Jabba soon, there'll be too many to stop... Remotes, Gank killers, and who knows what else. I've got to get that price off my head while I still have a head.

LEIA
Han, we need you here.

HAN
We?

LEIA
Yes.

HAN
Not you?

LEIA
(mystified)
Me? I don't know what you mean.

HAN
(shakes his head, fed-up)
You probably don't. How could you? You're so terrified of your own emotions...

LEIA
And what are they, pray tell?

HAN
You want me to stay because of the way you feel about me.

LEIA
I respect you. You're a bold fighter, maybe not the brightest, but...

HAN
No, your worship.. That's not what I'm talking about.

Leia stares at him, understands, then laughs.

LEIA
You're imagining things.

Han has had it with this broad. He steps closer. Leia is almost against the wall. Han puts a hand against the wall to cut off any retreat.

HAN
Am I? I say you came running after me because you were afraid I was leaving you without even a kiss.

LEIA
I'd just as soon kiss a wookiee.
HAN
There's no accounting for taste. Believe me, you could use a good kiss.
(warming to the subject)
You've spent so much time doing your duty and giving orders you've never learned how to be a woman. It's a shame, because you've got all the makings for one. I could have helped you plenty in that department... if you'd have let go for a minute. But it's too late now, sweetheart. Your big opportunity is flying out of here.

LEIA
We are fighting for a cause much...

HAN
Spare me please! Don't tell me about the Rebellion again. I've had it with your noble mission. All you let yourself think about is the Rebellion. The result is you're as cold as this planet.

LEIA
And you think you're the one to apply some heat?

HAN
Sure... If I were interested. But I don't think it'd be much fun.

He steps away from her, takes a last cool appraisal.

HAN (Continued)
We'll meet again. Maybe you'll have grown up a little by then.

LEIA
You have all the breeding of a Bantha, but not as much class... Enjoy your trip, hot shot!

Leia walks away.

16. EXT ICE PLAIN OF HOTH - DAY

Track with the sinister, probe robot as it moves across the vast frozen wilderness. One of its extended sensors detects something and the robot stops, turns and heads off in another direction, at high speed.

17. EXT MOUND OF SNOW - ICE PLAIN - HOTH - DAY

The robot stops before a large mound of snow about twenty feet long and six feet high. It circles the mound, then shoots a thin laser bolt at the snow drift.

18. CLOSE-UP MOUND OF SNOW

The mound shakes a little bit and two large eyes appear at one end, staring directly at the robot. A primeval BELLOW issues forth from the mound.

19. EXT MOUND OF SNOW - ICE PLAIN - HOTH - DAY

The robot backs off a few feet, then blasts the mound with a heavy laser bolt that disintegrates the snow-covered creature in a cloud of smoke and flame.

20. EXT ICE PLAIN - HOTH - DAY

The evil robot moves off toward the horizon.

21. EXT ICE GORGE - HOTH - DUSK

The jagged face of a huge ice wall sits gloomily in the dim twilight of a Hoth day. Luke hangs spreadeagle upside down, ankles tied by hide thongs to ice stalactites, his extended arms within a meter of the snow floor. His face is covered in dried frozen blood on one side. He opens his eyes as a chilling MOAN of the hideous ice creature echoes off the gorge walls.

22. EXT ICE GORGE - MED SHOT LUKE - DUSK

Luke pulls himself up, grabs hold of his ankles, and futilely tries to unfasten the thongs. Exhausted, he drops back into the hanging position.

LUKE
(to himself)
Relax. Relax.

Luke spies his laser sword lying near a pile of his discarded gear about three feet out of reach. Reverberating through the gorge, the growling and crunching sounds of the approaching ice monster can be heard. Luke desperately strains for his sword. Quietly, almost a whisper, Luke hears old BEN'S CALM VOICE.

BEN (Voice Over)
Luke, think the saber in your hand.

Luke focuses on the saber as the huge monster's feet crunch closer. Luke's hand strains toward the weapon, his eyes squeeze tight in concentration.

LUKE
Gotta relax, relax...

BEN (Voice Over)
Let The Force flow, Luke.

Just as the ice monster looms over Luke, the light saber suddenly jumps three feet into Luke's hand. The young warrior instantly ignites the sword, swings up and cuts both of his bindings. He drops to the snow in a heap. The startled ice monster moves back, his giant yellow eyes blinking. The most that can be discerned of the creature is a shape, and those two perplexed eyes. Luke scrambles to his feet. He swings his light saber and the monster screams in pain.

23. EXT ENTRANCE TO ICE GORGE - HOTH - DUSK

Luke staggers out of the gorge and stumbles down a snow bank.

24. INT MAIN HANGAR DECK - MILLENNIUM FALCON - DUSK

The hangar is full of activity. We hear a familiar stream of beeps and whistles a moment before catching sight of ARTOO and THREEPIO, who appear from a corridor and move along an ice wall toward the Millennium Falcon. Behind them, in the ice, two large yellow eyes blink open.

THREEPIO
It is not my fault, you malfunctioning twerp. I merely commented that it was freezing in her chamber. But it's supposed to be freezing. I did not ask you to turn on the thermal heater. I don't know how we'll get all her things dried out... Ah. Here we are.

The two robots stop at Han Solo's space freighter. Han and Chewie are still struggling with their central lifters.

THREEPIO
Captain Solo, sir. Might I have a word with you?

HAN
What is it?

THREEPIO
Mistress Leia has been trying to reach you on the communicator, but either you have it turned off, or it is malfunctioning... if it's damaged, Artoo, could fix it, if you like.

HAN
I shut it off. What's her royal holiness want?

THREEPIO
She is looking for Master Luke, and assumed he would be here with you. No one seems to know...

Han glances at the fading light at the entrance of the ice cave as night slowly begins to fall on the planet.

HAN
(concerned)
Luke's not back yet? It's almost night out there!

Han jumps down off the lift.

HAN
Bolt it down, Chewie...
(yelling)
Deck Sergeant!
(into com-link)
Control, has Commander Skywalker reported in yet?

He gets a negative reply as the DECK SERGEANT and an AIDE rush up to Han.

DECK SERGEANT
Yes sir!

HAN
Sergeant, is Commander Skywalker back yet?

DECK SERGEANT
I haven't seen him. He probably came in through the south entrance.

HAN
Probably isn't good enough, Sergeant. Check on it!

The Deck Sergeant and his aide turn and rush off. Artoo lets out a confused whistle.

THREEPIO
I don't know, Artoo.
(to Han)
Sir, might I inquire what's going on?

HAN
Go tell your precious Princess... Luke is dead unless he shows up soon.

Artoo lets out with a hysterical whistle.

THREEPIO
Oh no!

25. INT MAIN HANGAR DECK - TAUNTAUN CORRAL - NEAR ENTRANCE - DUSK

The Deck Sergeant and several Troopers inspect the mangled remains of three dead Tauntauns. Some of the hardware nearby has also been brutally pulled out of shape. Several surviving Tauntauns shuffle nervously nearby. Outside the light is slowly fading.

TROOPER
(to Deck Sergeant)
... I can't imagine, sir. Their necks are broken.

The Deck Sergeant nods, then notices Han running up and steps out of the group to meet him.

DECK SERGEANT
Commander Skywalker hasn't come through the south entrance, sir. Maybe he slipped by without checking in.

HAN
Not likely! Where are the speeders?

DECK SERGEANT
We haven't got them adapted to this cold yet...

HAN
We'll have to go out on Tauntauns.

DECK SERGEANT
The temperature is dropping too fast.

HAN
You bet it is... and Luke's out in it.

Han pushes through the troops and mounts a snow lizard. Huge monster feet move into the shadows of one of the X wing bays.

DECK SERGEANT
The night storms will start before you can reach the first marker.

HAN
Then I'll see you in Hell.

26. EXT SNOW CAVE ENTRANCE - REBEL BASE - DUSK

The small, lone figure riding a snow lizard races off into the hostile vastness of snow and cold. The slightest hint of wind blows up the snow behind the Tauntaun.

27. EXT PLAIN OF HOTH - DUSK

The dark, evil probe robot moves across the frozen floor of the Hoth plain. The wind is beginning to pick up, and snow starts to cake on the front of the robot. It stops, hovers, then drops to the ground. Several probes emerge from its metal hull and a dome shaped force field around the robot begins to glow. Eventually, the force field becomes a solid shape and is quickly covered with the blowing snow.

28. EXT PLAIN OF HOTH - DUSK

Han rides across the plain on his Tauntaun.

29. EXT PLAIN OF HOTH - CLOSE-UP HAN - DUSK

He reigns his mount to a stop, looks around and listens. It's almost as if he hears something. He turns and looks in one direction, then spurs his lizard in that direction.

30. EXT PLAIN OF HOTH - DUSK

Han rides off across the plain on his Tauntaun.

31. EXT SNOW DRIFT - HOTH - DUSK

The wind is blowing quite strong now. Luke struggles to stay upright, but a blast of freezing snow knocks him over. He struggles to get up, but can't. The young warrior from Tatooine drags himself a couple of feet and then collapses.

LUKE
I can't...

BEN
You must. Luke, look at me!

Luke looks up and sees old BEN KENOBI standing not ten feet away. Luke strains to lift himself up. He is speechless.

BEN
You must survive, Luke.

LUKE
I'm cold... so cold...

BEN
You must go to the Dagobah System... There you will learn from one who taught me: Yoda, the Jedi Master.

LUKE
(reaches out weakly)
Ben... Ben...

BEN
Luke... you are the only hope.

The image of Ben fades, revealing a lone rider on a Tauntaun in the windswept horizon.

LUKE
Ben!?

Luke drops into unconsciousness.

32. EXT SNOW DRIFT - HOTH - DUSK

Han pulls up, leaps off his lizard. He goes to his snow-covered friend and cradles him in his arms. Han's Tauntaun lets out a low, pitiful bellow. There is real fear in Han's face as he shakes Luke.

HAN
Come on, buddy, you aren't dead yet. Give me a sign here.

Luke doesn't respond. Han begins frantically rubbing Luke's wounded face. Soon he is slapping him.

HAN
Don't do this, Luke, it's not your time...

Luke responds to a slap. Han is joyous.

HAN
All right! I knew you wouldn't leave me out here all alone!

Han glances over toward his Tauntaun with concern as he starts to lift Luke.

HAN
(to Luke)
We've got to get you out of here before our transportation freezes.

33. EXT SNOW DRIFT BY TAUNTAUN - HOTH - DUSK

Han has carried Luke almost to the lizard when the Tauntaun dies with a moan. Han checks the lizard.

HAN
Blast! Deader than a Triton moon. We haven't got much time.

Han ignites Luke's light saber and cuts the beast from head to toe. He quickly shovels the steaming innards of the beast into the snow. Then he lifts Luke's inert form and stuffs him inside the carcass.

HAN
I know this doesn't smell so good, Luke, but it'll keep you from freezing. I'm sure this Tauntaun wouldn't hesitate if it were the other way around.
(Han gets an awful whiff of the insides) Whew! It's just as well you're out, pal.

Han starts pulling things out of a pack on the dead lizard's back.

HAN
(into com-link)
Base one, do you copy?... This com-link is useless.

The wind has picked up considerably and Han is beginning to find it difficult to move. He struggles with the shelter container, opens it and starts constructing it.

HAN
If I don't get this shelter up fast, Jabba the Hutt won't need those bounty hunters.

34. SNOW DRIFT - HOTH - DUSK

A veil of icy snow flows across the snow drift obscuring the doomed warriors.

35. INT MAIN HANGAR DECK - ENTRANCE - NIGHT

Princess Leia and her two robots stand before the dark entrance to the rebel base, waiting for a sign of the two rebel heroes. Leia shivers as the cold wind blows in on her. Artoo beeps a mournful tone. Chewie is sitting nearby with his head in his hands.

THREEPIO
Artoo can pick up no signals, although he feels his range is probably too limited to give up hope.

Leia nods an acknowledgement, but she is lost in thought that is only broken when General Rieekan approaches.

RIEEKAN
Nothing more can be done tonight. The shield doors must be closed. I can't wait any longer. I'm sorry.

LEIA
(resigned)
I understand.

Chewie lets out a long, mournful howl, somewhat like a coyote.

RIEEKAN
The speeders should be ready in the morning. They'll make the search easier.

LEIA
Is there any chance of them surviving out there?

RIEEKAN
Slim, but yes, there's a chance. They have a shelter. It's not much, but...

Artoo lets out with a complex series of efficient beeps.

THREEPIO
Beggin' your pardon, ma'am, but Artoo says the chances of survival are one thousand, seven hundred twenty-seven to one.
(to Artoo)
Actually, I don't think we needed to know that.

Leia stands praying to herself as the huge metal doors slam across the entrance of the ice cave. The loud BOOMS echo through the huge cavern. Chewie lets out another howl.

36. EXT ICE PLAIN - HOTH - DAWN

The huge dim sun of Hoth crawls lazily over the horizon in the North as a spurt of snow shoots skyward revealing the dark probe robot. The sinister object pulls in several of its extended arms, hovers for a few moments, then starts off across the bleak Hoth plain.

37. EXT SNOWDRIFT - HOTH - DAY

A small, snub-nosed, armored landspeeder races across the white landscape.

38. INT ARMORED SNOWSPEEDER - HOTH SNOWDRIFTS - DAY

There is only one PILOT, ZEV, in the enclosed two-man craft. He concentrates on the scopes which ring his cockpit. A low beep can be heard.

ZEV
(excited)
I've got something! Not much but it could be a life form FTC 2321 by TRX 1173. I'm closing in...

39. EXT ARMORED SNOWSPEEDER - HOTH SNOWDRIFTS - DAY

The small craft banks and makes a slow arc racing off in a new direction.

40. INT ARMORED SNOWSPEEDER - HOTH SNOWDRIFTS - DAY

The pilot switches over to a new transmitter.

ZEV
This is S-122 calling Captain Solo, Commander Skywalker. Do you copy? This is S-122...

There is a sharp crackle of static then a faint voice.

HAN (OS)
(filtered)
Nice of you guys to drop by. Hope we didn't get you up too early.

ZEV
(switching transmitters)
Base One, I found them, Repeat, I found them...

41. EXT SNOWDRIFT - HOTH - DAY

The small shelter is covered with snow on the windward side. Han has made a makeshift antenna which rests gingerly on top of the snowdrift. The small armored speeder can be seen approaching in the distance as Han waves frantically in the foreground.

42. INT MEDICAL CENTER - REBEL BASE

Strange ROBOT SURGEONS adjust a mass of electronic equipment. A switch is thrown and a sudden blinding flash obscures Luke in a chamber filled with a thick, gelatinous red slime. Luke begins to thrash about, raving in his delirium.

43. INT MEDICAL CENTER OBSERVATION ROOM - REBEL BASE

Leia, Threepio, and Chewbacca are watching from a glassed-off room next door, where Han is resting on a cushioned medical table. They can hear the mechanical surgeons working and Luke's ravings on a speaker in the room.

LUKE
Watch out... snow creatures... dangerous... Yoda... go to Yoda... only hope... must survive...

Han raises himself on the table, listening to Luke. Chewbacca makes him lie back down, then BARKS a comment in reference to Luke.

HAN
He doesn't make sense to me either, Chewie.

THREEPIO
I do hope he's all there... if you take my meaning. I would hate to see Master Luke develop a short circuit...

HAN
The kid ran into something mean, and it wasn't the cold.

LEIA
Those creatures he keeps talking about... we'd better double the security... Han, I don't know how...

HAN
Forget it.

TOO-ONEBEE (2-1B), a surgeon droid, enters the room.

TOO-ONEBEE
He had gone into dormo-shock, almost hibernation. But he's responding to the Bacta. We'll bring him through.

Leia breathes a sigh of relief. Chewie lets out a long GRUNT of approval.

LEIA
Now all we've got to worry about is what attacked him.

HAN
No kidding. If this snowball's got nasty natives, they could be anywhere.

Chewie WHINES, looks around.

HAN
That's right, Chewie, inside the base.

44. INT CORRIDOR - REBEL BASE

The drip, drip, drip of melting ice echoes throughout the long eerie corridor. A trooper walks by, followed at a short distance by Artoo, who rolls along whistling to himself. Behind him, a Wampa Ice Monster suddenly appears from out of the wall and begins following the little droid. Up ahead Artoo sees several troopers begin to act rather strangely, pointing at him and yelling. This puzzles Artoo, and he stops for a moment to figure it out. Far in the distance, alarms begin to go off.

Artoo comes to a conclusion, spins his head around and sees the Ice Monster staring down at him. The droid lets out a screech and races down the hall at full tilt ahead of the advancing monster.

A small troop of soldiers has gathered at the end of the hallway with weapons. Artoo races through the armed gathering as the creature screams and charges the troopers, laser bolts exploding around him. Artoo peeks from around a corner in time to see several troopers hurled against the walls like rag dolls. Two soldiers fire a laser bazooka at the monster and it is obscured by an enormous explosion.

The smoke clears. The silence is spooky. The Ice Monster stands seemingly dumbstruck. Artoo gives a short, worried beep. The creature topples over in a dead heap. A cheer goes up from Artoo and the troopers as they converge to inspect the fallen creature. A young CORPORAL pulls his com-link off his belt and speaks into it.

CORPORAL
We got it, sir, but there may be more.

45. INT COMMAND CENTER - REBEL BASE

Alarms buzz softly in the background. The entire command center is on full alert. General Rieekan is conferring with the HEAD CONTROLLER as Han and Leia enter the room. Threepio and Chewie follow.

LEIA
Have they analyzed the one that was killed?

RIEEKAN
Not yet. They're working on it now.

Another alarm goes off at a console behind them and the SENSOR CONTROLLER at that spot calls across the room.

SENSOR CONTROLLER
General!

Rieekan leaves the group as they continue...

HEAD CONTROLLER
It won't be long before our sensors will be able to track them.

THREEPIO
It figures Artoo would be in the middle of this.

HAN
It's going to be a little tricky around here until we know where they're coming form.

46. INT COMMAND CENTER BY CONSOLE - REBEL BASE

Rieekan looks up grimly from the console in the background. He calls over to Leia and Han.

RIEEKAN
We have a visitor.

The group hurries over to Rieekan.

RIEEKAN
We've picked up something outside the base in zone one, moving East.

LEIA
What is it?

SENSOR CONTROLLER
Can't tell yet... Metal.

HAN
Then it's not one of those creatures.

LEIA
Could it be one of ours? A speeder?

SENSOR CONTROLLER
I'm getting no signal. Wait, something very weak.

Threepio steps up to the control panel and listens to the strange signal intensely.

THREEPIO
I must say, sir, I'm fluent in over six million forms of communication, but this is something new... must be in code or...

A new VOICE comes over the com-link.

TROOPER VOICE
This is station five and we have your object on our scopes... It's just over the ridge, we should have visual contact in about... What the?... Oh no!

The transmission ends in static.

HAN
Whatever it is, it isn't friendly. I'm going to have a look. Come on, Chewie.

RIEEKAN
Wait. I'll send a patrol with you.

HAN
(over his shoulder)
Fine. But they'll have to take care of themselves.

47. EXT SNOW PLAIN - OVER REBEL BASE - HOTH - DAY

The dark probe robot moves past the smoldering ruins of the station fire and down a ridge toward the rebel base.

48. EXT SNOW PLAIN - SPEEDER - OVER REBEL BASE - HOTH - DAY

The robot stops when it sees in the distance a tiny speeder racing toward it followed by several other speeders. A large antenna projects skyward from the robot's top and it begins to send out a PIERCING SIGNAL.

49. EXT SNOW DUNE - SPEEDER - HOTH - DAY

The speeder disappears behind a snow dune.

50. EXT SNOW PLAIN - OVER REBEL BASE - HOTH - DAY

The sinister robot continues to send out its high pitched signal while frantically searching the landscape for the rebel speeders.

51. EXT SNOW PLAIN - OVER REBEL BASE - HOTH - DAY

Shortly, Chewbacca pops his head over a snow bank not thirty feet away. The robot swings around, its deadly ray ready to fire. But before it can get a shot off, it is hit from behind by a laser bolt, and explodes in a million pieces.

52. EXT SNOW PLAIN - OVER REBEL BASE - HOTH - DAY

Han Solo rises from the direction of the deadly bolt and walks over to the spot where the robot was a moment before, taking out his com-link.

53. INT COMMAND CENTER - REBEL BASE

Princess Leia and Rieekan listen to Han on the com-link.

HAN (OS)
(filtered)
... I'm afraid there's not much left.

LEIA
What was it?

HAN (OS)
(filtered)
Droid of some kind. I didn't hit it that hard. It must have had a self-destruct...

LEIA
An Imperial probe droid.

HAN (OS)
(filtered)
Now don't panic. We don't know that.

RIEEKAN
But, we don't know it wasn't.

54. SPACE - IMPERIAL FLEET

Darth Vader's Star Destroyer, larger and stranger than the five Imperial Star Destroyers that surround it, sits in the vastness of space. The six huge ships are surrounded by a convoy of smaller spacecraft. Tie fighters dart to and fro.

55. INT BRIDGE - MAIN CONTROL DECK - VADER'S STAR DESTROYER

Controllers working the vast complex of electronic controls hear ominous, approaching footsteps and look up from their controls. The squat, evil-looking ADMIRAL OZZEL and the young, powerfully-built GENERAL VEERS, who have been conferring near the front, also feel the approaching presence and turn that way. DARTH VADER, Lord of the Sith, enters like a chill wind. As he moves across the wide bridge, CAPTAIN PIETT hurries up to Ozzel.

PIETT
I think we've found them, Admiral.

OZZEL
Are you sure, Captain?

PIETT
Well, the report we have is only a fragment, from a probe droid in the Hoth System, but it's the best lead we've had in...

OZZEL
(angry)
We have millions of probe droids searching the galaxy... I want proof, not leads. I don't intend to continue to chase around from one side...

VADER
(looming over the group)
The Hoth System?

PIETT
Yes, Sir... we have visuals... the System is supposed to be devoid of human forms...

On a large screen, an image of the rebel snow base appears surrounded by complicated computer readouts. The rebel speeders can be seen approaching in the distance. Vader studies the image.

VADER
That's it. That's the one.

OZZEL
My Lord, how do you know it's them? There are so many uncharted settlements. It could be smugglers...

VADER
I know. And I know young Skywalker is with them. Bring in the patrol ships, Admiral, and set your course for the Hoth System. General Veers prepare your men...

56. INT ICE CORRIDOR - REBEL BASE - HOTH

Artoo and Threepio are moving by a steel door on which an X had been painted. From behind it come intermittent THUMPS and ROARS.

THREEPIO
... It seems the snow creatures are attracted to a high-pitched whistle. That's how they're being drawn to this trap.

Artoo WHISTLES his understanding as he stands before the door. Immediately the THUMPING on the door picks up. Artoo beeps a question.

THREEPIO
See your whistles upset them. No, I told you they can't get out! Now will you hurry up? I don't know why I bother...

Threepio moves around a corner. Artoo stares at the door another moment, then proceeds to tell the Ice Monsters off in a burst of beeps and whistles. The THUMPING picks up as Artoo moves casually away.

57. INT MEDICAL CENTER - REBEL BASE

Luke is out of the chamber, lying on the bed previously occupied by Han. Leia is at his side. She brushes the hair out of his eyes and runs her fingers along the scar on his face.

LEIA
The Bacta are growing well. The scars should be gone in a day or so. Does it still hurt?

LUKE
I'm fine. Really. Leia... when I was out there and it looked pretty bad... well, it made me think about things.

LEIA
Me too. I was afraid.

Their eyes meet. Luke touches her cheek with his hand.

LUKE
I don't really know how to say this... I never have before... Leia, you know how I feel about you...

She does and it's confusing. Their lips are very close. About to kiss. The door opens noisily and Threepio enters with Artoo. Leia pulls back, startled. Luke realizes the moment has been lost. His mind races for a way to regain it as Leia takes on her more formal manner. The droids are a bothersome distraction; Luke's concentration is on Leia. Artoo beeps a cheerful greeting.

THREEPIO
Master Luke, it's so good to see you functional again.

LUKE
Thanks, Threepio. Leia...

Artoo beeps and whistles.

THREEPIO
Artoo expresses his relief also.

LUKE
Good. Thanks, Artoo.

LEIA
(about to leave)
You rest now.

THREEPIO
So much has happened during the period of your indisposition, sir.

LEIA
I'll be back later.

LUKE
(anxious to keep her)
Leia... What would you think if I went away for a while?

LEIA
What did you say?!

Leia's reaction is so much bigger and more vociferous than Luke expected, it starts what is to become a growing snowball of confusion for him.

LEIA
Where are you going?

LUKE
I have this... feeling. I'm not sure, really...

LEIA
That's just great. Why doesn't everyone just take off?

LUKE
What are you talking about?

LEIA
First Han, now you. When am I going to learn not to count on anyone but myself?...

LUKE
Han's leaving?

LEIA
... I was getting along just fine before I met you two moon jockeys.

LUKE
Calm down, will ya? Tell me about Han.

LEIA
He wants to pay off that criminal he's in hock to.

LUKE
Jabba the Hutt?

LEIA
(back to her tirade)
I could get more loyalty if I went down the hall and recruited some of those snow creatures.

LUKE
Snow creatures... they're here?!

THREEPIO
Yes, sir. But they're being trapped quite cleverly.

Artoo beeps and whistles proudly.

THREEPIO
(to Artoo)
What do you mean, you took care of that? I would hardly call your part in that matter great...

Luke's head is spinning as Han and Chewie make a vigorous entrance. The Wookiee GROWLS a greeting.

HAN
Hi kid, you look strong enough to wrestle a Gundark.

LUKE
Thanks to you.

HAN
That's two you owe me, junior.

Han turns to Leia with a big, devilish grin.

HAN
Well, your worship, it looks like you arranged to keep me close by for a while longer.

LEIA
I had nothing to do with it. General Rieekan thinks it's dangerous for any ships to leave the system until we know where that probe came from.

LUKE
Probe? What probe?

HAN
That makes a good story. But I think you just can't bear to let me out of your sight.

LEIA
I don't know where you get your delusions, laser brains.

Chewie is amused; he LAUGHS in his manner. Han is enjoying this. He regards Chewie good-humoredly.

HAN
Laugh it up, fuzz ball. You didn't see her alone with me in the south passage.

Luke sparks to this; he looks at Leia.

LEIA
(to Luke)
I don't know what he's talking about.

HAN
Ooops! I guess you haven't told Luke about that yet.

LUKE
About what?

HAN
Now don't get the wrong idea, pal. She was just trying to express her true feelings for me.

LEIA
(to Han)
You must have gone completely out of your feeble mind.

HAN
Come on, your highness, are you telling me you haven't been thinking about that kiss?

Leia is flushed, eyes darting between Luke And Han.

LEIA
Why you low-down, stuck-up, half-witted, scruffy-looking nerf-herder.

HAN
Who's scruffy-looking?
(a big grin)
I tell ya' sweetheart, I must've hit pretty close to the mark to get you hoppin' like this. Doesn't it look that way to you, Luke?

LUKE
(staring at Leia)
Yeah... it does... kind of.

Leia looks vulnerable for a moment, then the mask again, focusing on Luke.

LEIA
Oh it does, does it? Well, I guess you don't understand everything about women yet... do you, sonny?

With that Leia leans over and kisses Luke on the lips. Then she stands and walks out. Everyone is dumbstruck. The door closes behind Leia and they all look at each other in silence.

In the distance, the muffled sound of an alarm is heard.

58. SPACE - IMPERIAL FLEET

Six huge star destroyers rest in the Hoth System.

59. INT STAR DESTROYER - VADER'S CHAMBER

A dark cubicle is illuminated by a single shaft of light from above. The brooding Dark Lord sits on a raised meditation cube. General Veers enters the room and approaches Vader. Vader doesn't move. Veers, although seemingly very sure of himself, is still not bold enough to interrupt the meditating Lord. The young general stands quietly at attention until the evil presence speaks.

VADER
What is it, Veers?

VEERS
My Lord, the fleet has moved out of light speed. Com-Scan has detected an energy field protecting an area on the sixth planet in the Hoth System. The field is strong enough to deflect any bombardment.

VADER
(angry)
The rebel scum is alerted to our presence. I told Admiral Ozzel not to go out of light speed so close to the system.

VEERS
He felt surprise was a wiser...

VADER
He's as clumsy as he is stupid. A clean bombardment is impossible with that energy shield up. Prepare your troops for a surface attack.

Veers turns smartly and leaves as Vader activates a large view-screen showing the bridge of the mighty space cruiser. Admiral Ozzel appears, with Captain Piett in the background.

OZZEL
Lord Vader, the fleet has moved out of light...

VADER
Captain Piett!

The Captain steps forward, as the Admiral moves away slightly confused, touching his throat as it begins to constrict.

PIETT
Yes, My Lord.

VADER
Make ready to land General Veers' assault troops on the surface. Then deploy the fleet so that nothing can get off that system. You're in command now, Admiral Piett.

Piett is as pleased as he is surprised. Admiral Ozzel has been struggling to breathe in the background and now with a final choke, he dies.

60. INT MAIN HANGAR DECK - REBEL BASE

Alarms sound. Troops, ground crews and droids rush to their alert stations. Armored landspeeders are lined up in attack formation near the main entrance. Leia is briefing a group of pilots gathered in the center of the hangar. Beyond them Han can be seen doing some frantic welding on the lifters of the Millennium Falcon.

LEIA
... the large transport ships will leave as soon as they've loaded. Only two fighter escorts per ship. The energy shield can only be opened for a split second at a time, so you'll have to stay very close to the transports.

PILOT
What about those Imperial ships out there?

LEIA
The ion cannon will fire two blasts which will destroy any enemy ships in your flight path. Then proceed to the rendezvous point. Good luck.

The pilots hurry away.

61. INT MAIN HANGAR DECK - MILLENNIUM FALCON - REBEL BASE

Han finishes his work and hops down to the hangar floor. He pulls out his com-link, all the time eyeing the lifters.

HAN
(into com-link)
All right, Chewie, give it a try.

Leia passes, giving Han a dirty look. A mechanism on the pirate's ship makes a noise and the lifters begin to rise. Suddenly there is a malfunction and the right lifter breaks partially loose, swinging down with a crash. Han winces. Leia, across the hangar, turns at the sound and shoots Han a "What a screw-up!" look, then goes out.

HAN
(into com-link)
Hold it, Chewie.

62. INT COMMAND CENTER - REBEL BASE - HOTH

The command center is quiet but tense, a marked contrast to the rushing about on the hangar deck. Only the buzz of complicated electronic equipment overrides the silence. General Rieekan watches over the shoulder of a RADARMAN as hundreds of small dots dance across a scope readout. Leia joins him.

RADARMAN
Imperial assault craft have landed on the far side.

RIEEKAN
If they reach the power generators, that will be the end of our energy shield.

LEIA
We must hold them off until all our ships are safely away.

CONTROLLER
The first transport is ready... Stand by to fire the ion cannon.

63. EXT IMPERIAL STAR DESTROYER - SPACE

FULL SHOT - A huge Imperial Star Destroyer rests against a sea of stars with the white surface of the planet Hoth far below in the left part of the frame.

64. INT IMPERIAL STAR DESTROYER NO. 1 BRIDGE

FULL SHOT - Interior Imperial Star Destroyer. Out window stars and the white planet on the left side of the frame.

CONTROLLER
Sir... rebel ship coming into our sector.

CAPTAIN
Good, our first catch of the day. Close in...

65. COMMAND CENTER - REBEL BASE

The long line of rebel controllers are tense, as are Princess Leia and General Rieekan, although they try not to show it. R-2 scoots by in the background followed by Threepio; they leave the room.

CONTROLLER
Our transport is approaching the shield.

RADARMAN
Open the shield and fire.

66. EXT ION CANNON - REBEL BASE ICE COVE

FULL SHOT - Giant ball-shaped ion cannon as it rotates into position and blasts two red energy beams skyward.

67. SPACE - HOTH REBEL TRANSPORT

FULL SHOT - SPACE - The planet Hoth covers two-thirds of the frame, left and lower. A medium rebel transport races away from the planet, followed by the two red energy beams. All race over camera.

68. SPACE - IMPERIAL STAR DESTROYER - REBEL TRANSPORT

FULL SHOT TRUCKING as the rebel transport races over the camera toward the waiting Imperial Star Destroyer, followed, then overtaken by the two red energy bolts. The Imperial Star Destroyer is hit in the conning tower by the bolts, causing great explosions.

69. SPACE - IMPERIAL STAR DESTROYER - REBEL TRANSPORT

FULL SHOT - Imperial Star Destroyer as a series of explosions rock the ship causing it to veer, then spin wildly out of control. SIDE VIEW of Star Destroyer right to left as it careens into deep space, and the rebel transport moves across the screen left to right. PAN with the rebel ship as it races away to safety.

70. MAIN HANGAR DECK - REBEL BASE - HOTH

Pilots, gunners and R-2 units hurry about. Luke, pulling on his heavy weather gear, is headed toward a row of armored speeders. He stops at the back of the Millennium Falcon, where Han and Chewie are trying to repair the right lifter with even more haste than before. Luke speaks up to them.

LUKE
Looks like this'll be it for awhile. Chewie, take care of yourself... and watch over this guy, will ya.

Chewie BARKS a farewell and returns to his work. Han and Luke exchange warm looks.

LUKE
I hope you make your peace with Jabba.

HAN
Don't worry. You haven't seen the last of us.

Han swings down by one arm like a monkey and clasps Luke's hand. They hold for a long moment, then break. Luke nods and moves away. Han watches him go.

HAN
Give 'em hell, kid.

He goes back to work. Everyone cheers at the announcement which echoes through the hangar.

ANNOUNCER (OVER PA)
First transport is clear and away.

Luke hurries up to his landspeeder. His gunner, DACK, a fresh-faced, eager kid, is glad to see him. They climb in.

DACK
Are you feeling all right, sir?

LUKE
Like new, Dack. How 'bout you? Ready to try some real fighting?

DACK
Yes, sir! Right now I feel like I could take on the whole Empire myself. You know what I mean, Commander?

LUKE
(quietly, strapping in)
Yeah, I know... I know.

Leia's voice comes over the PA system.

LEIA (OVER PA)
Speeder pilots... Your fighters are being towed to the south slope. They should be safe there. You'll get a signal when the evacuation is complete.

71. ICE CORRIDOR - REBEL BASE - HOTH

Threepio and Artoo stand in the middle of the corridor as troops and aides rush past them.

THREEPIO
Why is it when things seem to get settled, everything falls apart. Well, I guess it's goodbye then... Take good care of Master Luke... and take good care of yourself, too. Until we meet again...

Artoo replies with a whistle and a toot, turns and speeds down the hallway. Threepio waves, then turns and moves off in the opposite direction.

72. EXT ICE CAVE (MATTE)

With gun tower in the foreground, men rush about getting ready for the battle. The giant gun swings around pointing to camera slightly left to right.

73. EXT ICE PLAIN - SNOW TRENCH - HOTH

MED SHOT - Rebel troops carry heavy bazooka-type weapons into position along a snow trench. Men rush about as officers yell orders and brace themselves against the rhythmic gusts of wind.

74. EXT ICE PLAIN - GUN TOWERS

MED SHOT - Rebel troops load power packs into a gun turret and swing its guns into position.

75. EXT ICE PLAIN - POWER GENERATORS - GUN TOWERS

MED SHOT - Rebel troops move a dish-like ray gun into position. The huge power generator can be seen in background against the ice cliffs.

76. EXT ICE PLAIN - POWER GENERATORS - GUN TOWERS

MED SHOT of generator, as men scurry about in the foreground carrying equipment. The loud buzz and popping of the generator is deafening. Long fingers of energy fly off the huge cores every so often. One trooper moves into the foreground as he hears something but can't quite make out what it is.

77. EXT ICE PLAIN - POWER GENERATORS - GUN TOWERS

MED CLOSE-UP - An officer in the trench hears the sound also. He turns toward the ice plain horizon. All work stops as the men listen to the distant, thump, thump, thump sound. The officer squints to see something.

78. EXT ICE PLAIN - HOTH - POV

WIDE SHOT - A thin horizon line cuts across the bleak landscape. Small dot-sized objects begin to appear on the horizon: the wind begins to pick up.

79. EXT ICE PLAIN - HOTH

EXTREME CLOSE-UP - The giant foot of an Imperial snow walker crashes thru frame, kicking up snow and ice. It rises out of frame.

80. EXT ICE PLAIN POWER GENERATOR - GUN TOWERS

MED SHOT - The rebel officer lifts a pair of electrobinoculars to his eyes.

81. EXT ICE PLAIN - HOTH - POV

ELECTRO-BINOCULAR POV of very close view on a giant walker, the view ZOOMS back to reveal a full shot of three approaching walkers. Small flashes appear around the guns of the lumbering monsters.

82. EXT ICE PLAINS - POWER GENERATORS - GUN TOWERS

MED SHOT - The officer drops his binoculars as the regular rhythmic pounding begins to vibrate the ground. It grows louder, with a high-pitched, metallic rattling. He speaks into a com-link.

LIEUTENANT
Incoming! Open up... they're point 03, Commander Skywalker

LUKE
We're on our way.

The ice and snow explode around the officer and his men.

83. EXT ICE PLAIN - POWER GENERATORS - GUN TOWERS

MED SIDE ANGLE - The rebel troops aim their weapons at the horizon as explosions erupt all around them. They are nervous, and tighten their weapons from the cold or fear. Behind the troops a dozen speeders race screen left to right.

84. EXT ICE PLAIN - BATTLEFIELD - HOTH

MED FULL SHOT - Four speeders race over camera at full throttle. Slight left to right angle.

85. EXT ICE PLAIN - BATTLEFIELD - HOTH

HIGH ANGLE - Trucking with speeders as they accelerate away from camera toward the distant walkers.

86. EXT ICE PLAIN - BATTLEFIELD - HOTH

MED CLOSE-UP - Walker head fires at speeders. Second walker in background. Moving right to left.

87. EXT ICE PLAIN - BATTLEFIELD - HOTH

MED FULL SHOT - Two speeders going left to right across ice plain. The one in the foreground explodes in a ball of flames. Camera trucking with ships.

88. INT LUKE'S SNOWSPEEDER - ROGUE LEADER

INT SPEEDER OVER-SHOULDER - Pilot (Luke) works his controls as he fires at the approaching walkers. The monstrous machines fire back, shaking the speeder in a hail of flack.

89. EXT ICE PLAIN - BATTLEFIELD - HOTH

MED SHOT - Side view looking forward along head of walker as two speeders race toward it, split and fly past. One speeder on the far side of the head, the other to camera.

90. EXT ICE PLAIN - BATTLEFIELD - HOTH

FULL SHOT - Two speeders going away, race over camera past walker and bank to the right. Camera trucks in at slower speed toward flank of walker during shot.

91. INT LUKE'S SNOWSPEEDER - ROGUE LEADER

INT PILOT POV - Speeder cockpit. Speeder turns, approaching walker number one, and flys through the legs of the monstrous machine. The horizon twists as the speeder banks through the legs. Second walker in background.

LUKE
Rogue Leader to Rogue Three.

WEDGE
Copy, Rogue Leader.

92. INT LUKE'S SNOW SPEEDER - ROGUE LEADER

CLOSE-UP LUKE - Looking back to the speeder cockpit. The horizon twists and shakes behind Luke's head as he swings the tiny craft around for another run.

LUKE
Wedge, split your squad into pairs...

93. EXT ICE PLAIN - BATTLEFIELD - HOTH

FULL SHOT - Pan through foreground legs of walker as speeder banks and turns away. Two other speeders pass the first speeder going in the opposite direction.

94. EXT ICE PLAIN - BATTLEFIELD - HOTH

MED FULL SHOT - Three walkers marching right to left firing all cannons.

95. INT LUKE'S SNOWSPEEDER - ROGUE LEADER

CLOSE-UP LUKE - Luke speeds towards approaching snow walkers.

96. INT WALKER NO. 3 COCKPIT

Two pilots watch the distant gun emplacements as they maneuver their war machine forward.

PILOT
On the right!

Luke's speeder banks in from the side and heads straight for the viewport, blasting away. A huge explosion hits the window and dissipates. The speeder roars over the window.

97. EXT ICE PLAIN - BATTLEFIELD - HOTH

FULL SHOT - Moving across the top of the walker as Luke's speeder skims across it. Trucking with the speeder then it flys overhead.

98. INT LUKE'S SNOWSPEEDER - ROGUE LEADER

CLOSE-UP LUKE LOOKING BACK as the walker grows small in the distance.

LUKE
That armor is too strong for blasters.

99. EXT ICE PLAIN - BATTLEFIELD - HOTH

OVERHEAD TWISTING FULL SHOT WALKER - Luke's speeder banks up toward camera and turns.

100. INT LUKE'S SNOWSPEEDER - ROGUE LEADER

SIDE VIEW CLOSE-UP LUKE - On the horizon a walker moves up past the cockpit window twisting as Luke banks and starts another run.

LUKE
Rogue Group use your harpoons and tow cables. Go for the legs. It's our only hope of stopping them. Hobbie, are you still with me?

101. INT HOBBIE'S SNOWSPEEDER - ROGUE FOUR

CLOSE-UP FRONT HOBBIE as the horizon twists then rights itself in the background. Hobbie, a tanned-skin vet of many battles, expertly works his controls.

HOBBIE
Yes, sir.

LUKE (VO)
Well stick close now.

102. EXT ICE PLAIN - BATTLEFIELD - HOTH

FULL OVERHEAD TRUCKING - Luke's speeder races into the frame from the left in full bank, then straightens out. Hobbie's ship comes in from the left and moves in next to Luke's ship in a tight formation. They bank in unison and drop closer to the ice surface.

103. INT LUKE'S SNOWSPEEDER - ROGUE LEADER

SIDE CLOSE-UP DACK - Struggles with his harpoon gun as he bounces around in the tumbling ship.

DACK
Whoea! Luke, I can't seem to find my restraints...

Explosions flash outside the window. As the ship moves left to right they pass a walker in the distance.

104. INT LUKE'S SNOWSPEEDER - ROGUE LEADER

INT PILOT'S POV - Over the shoulder of Luke as he swings the speeder around and aims it at the oncoming walker. Laser bolts and flack create a deadly wall the speeder must pass through.

LUKE
Just hang on Dack, and get ready to fire that tow cable...

A huge explosion engulfs Luke's speeder, the battered craft wobbles a bit.

105. INT LUKE'S SNOWSPEEDER - ROGUE LEADER

FRONT CLOSE-UP LUKE - As the speeder shudders under the impact of the explosion, but he manages to regain control of the craft. The horizon twists in the background.

LUKE
Stand by, Dack, we're almost there. Are you okay, Dack?

106. EXT ICE PLAIN - BATTLEFIELD - HOTH

FULL LOW ANGLE - The speeders fly in a tight formation toward the camera as explosions burst all around the craft. The speeders fly right over the camera.

107. INT LUKE'S SNOWSPEEDER - ROGUE LEADER

SIDE CLOSE-UP LUKE - Interior speeder as Luke struggles to turn around to see if Dack is alright. In the background the giant legs of the walker pass by as Luke banks under the monstrous machine.

LUKE
Dack!

108. INT LUKE'S SNOWSPEEDER - ROGUE LEADER

CLOSE-UP DACK FROM LUKE'S POV - Dack is lost, blood streams down his forehead which rests on his smoldering controls. Out the back window the receding walker can be seen in the distance.

109. EXT ICE PLAIN - POWER GENERATORS - GUN TOWERS

MED SHOT - Rebel troops fire their strange weapons at the oncoming walker. Explosions burst all around them. A gun turret explodes in the foreground.

110. EXT ICE PLAIN - POWER GENERATORS - GUN TOWERS

MED SHOT - Rebel troops fire at camera with the generator visible in the distance. Explosions erupt in the foreground.

111. EXT ICE PLAIN - POWER GENERATORS - GUN TOWERS

MED SHOT - The rebel officer we had seen earlier is hit by laser fire. Troops rush to his aid.

112. EXT ICE PLAIN - POWER GENERATORS - GUN TOWERS

MED SHOT - Rebel troops fire the dish-like ray gun. The generator is seen in the background.

113. EXT ICE PLAIN - BATTLEFIELD - HOTH

FULL SHOT - Two walkers (one near, one far) lumber on toward camera as a speeder between them explodes in a ball of flames going left to right.

114. INT MAIN HANGAR DECK - HOTH

Muffled explosions create ear-shattering cracks in the ice roof of the hangar. Han and Chewie look up from their frantic welding to see the gap in the ceiling grow wider. Han makes a final weld.

HAN
First chance we get, we're giving this crate a complete overhaul... That's tight enough. Let's get out of here before we become permanent residents.

115. COMMAND CENTER - REBEL BASE - HOTH

Large chunks of snow tumble into the command center. Leia seeks shelter.

LEIA
Two transports at a time is awfully risky.

RIEEKAN
We have no choice. Send them up... and start clearing everyone out.

116. INT IMPERIAL WALKER NO. 1

COCKPIT - Over the shoulder of the pilots to the power generator in the distance. Explosions all around. Two speeders race by right to left. The pilots fire at the gnat-like attackers. General Veers moves in between the pilots.

VEERS
What's the range to the power generators?

PILOT
Six twenty one... still too far out of range, but it won't be long.

117. INT IMPERIAL WALKER NO. 1 COCKPIT

CLOSE-UP VEERS - As he bounces along, he pulls down an electro-telescope and studies the rebel positions.

VEERS
We have that line of gun emplacements to get through...

PILOT
No problem...

Suddenly, the huge vehicle rocks violently. The pilots scramble over their controls to level the crafts.

VEERS
What's that?

118. EXT BATTLEFIELD - HOTH

HIGH SHOT - Side view of a speeder going left to right as it banks sharply and dives away from camera toward the fast rushing surface.

119. INT WEDGE'S SNOWSPEEDER - ROGUE THREE

CLOSE-UP FRONT - Wedge lets out a rebel yell, the horizon twisting behind him.

120. EXT BATTLEFIELD - HOTH

FULL SHOT TRUCKING - Panning with the speeder as it turns around and races under camera. Starts going left to right, turns to go overhead.

121. INT WEDGE'S SNOWSPEEDER - ROGUE THREE

OVER THE SHOULDER POV of Wedge as he heads toward Walker No. 3, going almost to where it passes between the legs.

122. INT WEDGE'S SNOWSPEEDER - ROGUE THREE

CLOSE-UP SIDE SHOT of the gunner as he passes the legs. He reaches for the firing switch.

WEDGE
Activate harpoon.

123. EXT BATTLEFIELD - HOTH

MED FULL SHOT of the speeder racing to camera through the legs of Walker No. 3.

124. INT WEDGE'S SNOWSPEEDER - ROGUE THREE

CLOSE-UP HAND pushes button that fires harpoon.

125. INT WEDGE'S SNOWSPEEDER - ROGUE THREE

BACK POV from gunner as the harpoon flashes and fires at the receding legs.

ROGUE THREE GUNNER
Cable out! Let her go...

126. EXT BATTLEFIELD - HOTH

MED SHOT of the harpoon going right to left and embedding itself in one of the legs of Walker No. 3.

127. INT WEDGE'S SNOWSPEEDER - ROGUE THREE

CLOSE-UP SIDE WEDGE as he checks his controls, and banks around the walker's front. Left to right.

128. EXT BATTLEFIELD - HOTH

FULL SHOT SPEEDER as it races left to right around one of the giant walker feet, trailing the cable behind it. The speeder continues around the back foot going right to left. Truck with the Walker No. 3.

129. EXT BATTLEFIELD - HOTH

HIGH OVERHEAD MOVING SHOT of speeder as it circles the walker moving around the tail end. A second speeder passes in the foreground with the cable in tow.

130. EXT BATTLEFIELD - HOTH

FULL PANNING SHOT of speeder moving left to right in front of the giant legs of the walker towing the cable.

131. INT WEDGE'S SNOWSPEEDER - ROGUE THREE

CLOSE-UP OF WEDGE as he swings the speeder between the legs of the giant walker.

132. INT WEDGE'S SNOWSPEEDER - ROGUE THREE

PILOT'S POV of walkers legs as the speeder races along the side close to the lumbering machine.

ROGUE THREE GUNNER
Cable out!

133. EXT BATTLEFIELD - HOTH

FULL SHOT panning with the speeder as it zooms behind the legs moving right to left.

134. INT WEDGE'S SNOWSPEEDER - ROGUE THREE

CLOSE-UP HAND pushes button on cable release inside speeder cockpit.

135. EXT BATTLEFIELD - HOTH

CLOSE-UP CABLE RELEASE on back of the speeder as it snaps loose and the cable drops away.

136. EXT BATTLEFIELD - HOTH

FULL SHOT OF THE SPEEDER zooming over camera and away into the distance moving slightly right to left. Low angle, no horizon.

137. EXT BATTLEFIELD - HOTH

MED SHOT of the tangled legs and feet of Walker No. 3 coming to camera. The monster begins to stumble.

138. EXT BATTLEFIELD - HOTH

EXTREME LONG SHOT OF WALKER NO. 3 through the legs of a foreground walker. The giant Imperial assault machine stumbles and starts to fall to the ground. Side angle moving right to left.

139. EXT BATTLEFIELD - HOTH

CLOSE FULL SHOT of Walker No. 3 coming to camera crashing into the snow which flies in all directions.

140. INT LUKE'S SNOWSPEEDER - ROGUE LEADER

CLOSE-UP LUKE FRONT with twisting horizon background.

WEDGE (VO)
Rogue Leader... One down, Luke.

LUKE
I see it Wedge... good work.

141. EXT ICE PLAIN - SNOW TRENCH - GUN TOWERS

MED SHOT OF TROOPS in the trenches cheering at the fallen walker. A damaged gun turret smolders in the background. An officer gives a signal in the foreground and the rebel troops charge the fallen walker moving left to right.

142. EXT ICE PLAIN - POWER GENERATORS - GUN TOWERS

FULL SHOT of the troops jumping out of the trenches running to camera. The main power generator can be seen in the distance.

143. EXT EXT BATTLEFIELD - HOTH

FULL SIDE TRUCKING SHOT of rebel troops running left to right as two speeders race overhead going in the same direction.

144. EXT BATTLEFIELD - HOTH

FULL SHOT of downed Walker No. 3 as Imperial Snow Stormtroopers climb out of the smoldering walker and start firing at the coming rebels. The rebel troops run over the camera toward the Imperial forces, followed by two rebel speeders flying low overhead.

145. EXT BATTLEFIELD - HOTH

CLOSER ANGLE - Troops rush and fire at the fallen walker as a speeder banks low overhead, blasting away, causing great explosions around the walker.

146. EXT BATTLEFIELD - HOTH

FULL SHOT of Luke and Rogue Two's speeder flying in formation, banking from right to left and flying overhead. Low angle, no horizon. Flak bursts all around them.

147. INT LUKE'S SNOWSPEEDER - ROGUE LEADER

CLOSE-UP OF LUKE from the front. He looks over to Rogue Two on his left. The horizon levels out behind him. The ship shudders as flack bursts all around his speeder.

LUKE
Steady, Rogue Two, I'll cover for you.

148. INT ZEV'S SNOWSPEEDER - ROGUE TWO

SIDE CLOSE-UP ANGLE on Rogue Two. Luke's speeder can be seen in the background. The speeders are moving left to right. Rogue Two is wounded in the face.

ROGUE TWO (ZEV)
It's no good, I can't see.

LUKE (VO)
Steady, just keep it steady.

The ship bounces under the constant impact of flack.

149. INT LUKE'S SNOWSPEEDER - ROGUE LEADER

LUKE'S POV OUT THE SPEEDER window at the distant oncoming walker as flack bursts on all sides. Laser bolts streak past.

LUKE
I'll lead you in.

150. INT LUKE'S SNOWSPEEDER - ROGUE LEADER

CLOSE-UP FRONT LUKE works his controls, as the ship shudders under the impact. He keeps looking screen left to Rogue Two.

LUKE
Is your gunner alright?

ROGUE TWO GUNNER (VO)
I'm O.K., sir.

LUKE
Just keep it steady. Don't try to...

Luke's speeder is rocked by a huge explosion, and a loud metal scream drowns out Luke's sentence. He struggles with the controls as a look of terror crosses his face. Smoke pours out the back and the horizon twists.

151. EXT BATTLEFIELD - HOTH

FULL SHOT of oncoming walkers in distance as Luke's speeder races over camera moving left to right trailing smoke and flames. The speeder crashes into the snow a few yards in front of the walker.

152. INT LUKE'S SNOWSPEEDER - ROGUE LEADER

INT CLOSE-UP inside Luke's cockpit as he struggles to get out. He gets desperate as he looks out the cockpit window.

153. INT LUKE'S SNOWSPEEDER - ROGUE LEADER

LUKE'S POV out cockpit window of giant walker feet crunching even closer. The ship shudders under the impact of the huge metal feet pounding the ice plain.

154. INT ZEV'S SNOWSPEEDER - ROGUE TWO

CLOSE-UP FRONT Rogue Two, blood streaming down his face, struggles with his controls. The flack is murder.

ROGUE TWO (ZEV)
Luke... What happened, I can't...

The cockpit explodes in a ball of flames.

155. EXT BATTLEFIELD - HOTH

FULL SIDE SHOT of Rogue Two's speeder in a ball of flames going left to right.

156. INT LUKE'S SNOWSPEEDER - ROGUE LEADER

SIDE ANGLE CLOSE-UP from inside the cockpit as Luke manages to get the hatch open and pulls himself out. The ship shakes from the approaching walker.

157. EXT BATTLEFIELD - HOTH

EXTREME CLOSE-UP of giant walking foot as it comes crashing to the ground, sending snow in all directions.

158. EXT BATTLEFIELD - HOTH

MED FULL SHOT (looking back at Luke, away from walker) as Luke climbs out of the speeder and starts to run forward. The ominous shadow of the huge Walker No. 2 falls over him as he looks up at the approaching monster. The ground shakes under the impact of the pounding feet. Luke gets an idea and runs back to the speeder, reaching inside the cockpit for something.

159. EXT BATTLEFIELD - HOTH

EXTREME CLOSE-UP of the giant walker's foot as it comes crashing to the ground, sending snow in all directions.

160. EXT BATTLEFIELD - HOTH

MED CLOSE-UP as Luke rummages through the smoldering speeder and comes up with a climbing gun. Luke looks up, and ducks as the front foot of the walker comes crashing down right behind him, shaking the speeder violently. He reaches back in the cockpit for something else, glancing up with a worried look.

161. EXT BATTLEFIELD - HOTH

LUKE'S POV of the moving underbelly of the huge Walker No. 2 as it passes over his head.

162. EXT BATTLEFIELD - HOTH

CLOSE-UP of Luke outside the speeder as he searches the cockpit, straining to reach inside.

163. INT LUKE'S SNOWSPEEDER - INSERT

CLOSE-UP Luke's arm inside the speeder. He grabs a hold of a large landmine-type bomb and pulls it out of the speeder cockpit.

164. EXT BATTLEFIELD - HOTH

MED FULL SIDE VIEW as Luke pulls the landmine out of the cockpit and leaps away just as the huge black foot of Walker No. 2 comes crashing down on the tiny speeder. The rebel vehicle is crushed flat by the powerful walker.

165. EXT BATTLEFIELD - HOTH

MED CLOSE-UP of Luke as he stumbles up out of the snow and runs toward camera slightly left to right chasing after the lumbering walker. He hooks the landmine around his neck.

166. EXT BATTLEFIELD - HOTH

CLOSE-UP LUKE as walker foot raises in background.

167. EXT BATTLEFIELD - HOTH

MED PAN PAST the back legs of Walker No. 2 following Luke as he runs under the monstrous machine and fires the gun at the underbelly of the walker, directly above him. A thin cable follows the projectile from the gun. Another walker can be seen in the background moving left to right.

168. EXT BATTLEFIELD - HOTH

CLOSE-UP OF MAGNETIC head and cable attaching itself on the underbelly of Walker No. 2. The cable is pulled tight as Luke tests it.

169. EXT BATTLEFIELD - HOTH

MED SHOT of Luke running and climbing up the cable. The second walker can be seen left to right in the background.

170. EXT BATTLEFIELD - HOTH

EXTREME LONG SHOT of Luke dangling from the underbelly of Walker No. 2, moving right to left. The giant legs of a second walker move through the foreground.

171. EXT BATTLEFIELD - HOTH

MED CLOSE-UP of Luke climbing the cable to the underbelly of Walker No. 2 going right to left. The two rebel speeders pass in the background. Flack burst in the distance.

172. EXT BATTLEFIELD - HOTH

HIGH ANGLE LOOKING down at Luke as he climbs the cable into a close shot. The walker's giant feet are seen pounding across the moving snow. Stray laser bolts pass him as he swings.

173. EXT BATTLEFIELD - HOTH

MED SIDE SHOT of Luke as he reaches the hull of Walker No. 2, next to a small hatch. Luke, hanging precariously, cuts the solid metal hatch with his lasersword.

174. EXT BATTLEFIELD - HOTH

CLOSE SIDE ANGLE of Luke taking the landmine from around his neck and placing it inside the Imperial machine. He closes the hatch and starts sown the cable, fast.

175. EXT BATTLEFIELD - HOTH

LOW ANGLE looking up at Walker No. 2 as Luke slides down the cable, then drops past camera.

176. EXT BATTLEFIELD - HOTH

SIDE MED SHOT of Luke falling, then drops out of the frame.

177. EXT BATTLEFIELD - HOTH

3/4 REAR LOW ANGLE SHOT of the giant Walker No. 2. It stops in mid-step. A muffled explosion is heard, then the insides of the giant walker come blasting out every conceivable opening. It sits dead in its tracks, smoking like a locomotive on stilts.

178. COMMAND CENTER - REBEL BASE

The command center is a shambles. The continual explosions outside have caused a massive cave-in. A lone controller works at the remaining computer board, while Leia, Threepio and another controller attempt to move a cake of ice off of General Rieekan. Finally, the ice tumbles to one side and Leia goes to the General, but it's too late. Threepio inspects the General's pulse.

THREEPIO
I'm afraid he's no longer functioning.

Leia is truly sorrowful. She holds the General's hand a moment and regards him reflectively.

CONTROLLER
(urgent)
The last transport is waiting.

Another explosion rocks the area.

THREEPIO
Beg your pardon, ma'am, but our possible avenues of exit are being rapidly reduced.

Leia nods, stands, and speaks to the controller with renewed authority.

LEIA
Tell the ship we're on our way, and signal the troops in the field to retreat to their fighters.

179. INT ICE CORRIDOR - REBEL BASE - HOTH

Apart from the distant thunder of laser blasts, the corridor is strangely quiet and empty. Running footsteps echo through the freezing hallway, then Han appears. He hurries toward the Control Center just as Leia, Threepio and the two controllers exit the room. Leia is surprised to see him. Han is greatly relieved to see her.

HAN
... I heard on the com-link the command station was destroyed. You all right?

Leia nods, still a little confused.

LEIA
General Rieekan's dead.

Han grimaces at the news, then looks them over.

HAN
This all that's left of your unit? You'd better hurry, the transport's waiting for you.

180. INT ICE CORRIDOR - REBEL BASE - HOTH

With 3PO trailing behind, they race down the corridor to where it ends in a T and round the corner only to find it blocked with ice and snow. They start back the other way when Han stops at a door with a big cross on it.

HAN
That way is going to take too long. Let's go through these storage rooms.

He starts for the door and hears a faint banging.

HAN
Hey! Someone's still in here.

LEIA
Wait, don't open it... that's one of the traps for the ice creatures.

The pounding increases.

THREEPIO
Oh my, there must be a hundred of them in there.

They race down the corridor.

181. INT COCKPIT - REBEL TRANSPORT

The pilots are getting nervous, the captain leans over one.

CAPTAIN
I don't know if there's anyone left alive in there. Give it one more try.

PILOT
Control unit 33, this is transport XJ... we can't wait any longer...

182. INT ICE CORRIDOR

Han pulls his com-link out and talks as he runs.

HAN
Hello, XJ! They're coming now...

Suddenly there is an explosion, a loud crack. Han turns, grabs the Princess and pulls her to the wall as a giant cave-in smothers the two controllers.

Han grabs his com-link as Leia helps Threepio dig himself out of the snow.

HAN
Transport XJ. get out of here. Go!

THREEPIO
The energy shield is down. We'll be stuck here forever.

183. EXT REBEL GUN EMPLACEMENT - HOTH

The icy wind picks up as the battle rages. Rebel and Imperial troops are firing at each other at point blank range.

184. EXT SNOW BY REBEL GUN EMPLACEMENT - HOTH

A walker steps on several rebel troops as they attempt to flee.

185. EXT REBEL GUN EMPLACEMENT

A rebel officer puts his hand to his helmet earphone in an attempt to hear his com-link.

COM-LINK
Disengage - Disengage - Ships away. Begin retreat action.

The officer flips a switch on his com-link and a loud whistle is heard. He signals his men to retreat.

186. EXT BATTLEFIELD - HOTH

LOW ANGLE MEDIUM SHOT of Walker No. 1 as it advances at camera, going slightly right to left. The smoldering walker that Luke just blasted stands dead in its tracks in the background.

187. INT IMPERIAL WALKER NO. 1 - COCKPIT

CLOSE over the shoulder of walker pilot. POV of rebel troops and power generators. Veers steps into the frame.

188. INT IMPERIAL WALKER NO. 1 - COCKPIT

REVERSE CLOSE-UP of Veers as he studies various readouts.

PILOT
All resistance is fading.

VEERS
Good, we have them now. Prepare to target the main generator.

189. EST REBEL GUN EMPLACEMENT - HOTH

MED SHOT - Rebel troops retreat under the onslaught.

190. EXT REBEL GUN EMPLACEMENT - HOTH

ANOTHER ANGLE - Rebel troops retreat as a walker looms in the background. Pan down to troops as an explosion hits.

191. EXT BATTLEFIELD - HOTH

HIGH ANGLE of troops fleeing and firing back toward camera.

192. EXT BATTLEFIELD - HOTH

LOW ANGLE FULL SHOT of three of the giant walkers advancing to camera, firing lasers, with troops in foreground running toward and over camera as the snow erupts all around them. A lone rebel speeder is in the background.

193. EXT BATTLEFIELD - HOTH

BACK CLOSE-UP of guns on walker-head, firing.

194. EXT BATTLEFIELD - HOTH

MED BEHIND TROOPS fleeing over camera, the ground explodes around them.

195. INT WALKER NO. 1 - COCKPIT

CLOSE-UP VEERS inside Walker No. 1 cockpit. He speaks over the com-link as he studies various readouts.

VEERS
... yes, Lord Vader. I've reached the main power generators and I'm destroying them now. The shield will be down in moments. You may start your landing...

PILOT
Look out!

Veers looks out the cockpit window.

196. EXT BATTLEFIELD - HOTH

FULL SHOT of Hobbie's speeder, Rogue Four, as it races over camera right at the head of the oncoming walker.

197. INT WALKER NO. 1 - COCKPIT

OVER THE SHOULDER of Veers and his pilots as the speeder crashes into the front window.

PILOT
He's going to...

Impact, huge explosion.

198. EXT BATTLEFIELD - HOTH

FULL SHOT of Walker No. 1 with head exploding and frying into a million pieces.

199. EXT BATTLEFIELD - HOTH

FULL SHOT Walker No. 1. After a few moments the headless walker topples over on its side in a cloud of snow.

200. EXT BATTLEFIELD - HOTH

The clamor of battle is heard in the distance. Stray laser bolts whiz past. Debris and rubble are scattered everywhere. Nearby stands the burned-out hulk of No. 2 Walker Luke destroyed, hatches and metal parts clanking in the chilly Hoth wind.

201. EXT BATTLEFIELD - SNOWDRIFT - HOTH

Luke pops his head out of a hole in the snow. Still a little shaken, he tries to stand up, but can't. His com-link whistles.

COM-LINK
... ships away. Begin retreat action. All troops begin retreat action.

Luke musters all his strength and starts off through the snow toward a distant ice formation.

202. INT MAIN HANGAR - REBEL BASE - HOTH

A distant, huge explosion rocks the hangar deck. Ice cakes come crashing down on the Millennium Falcon. Chewie is pacing under the safety of the ship's landing gear. The giant Wookiee pats the underbelly of his beloved ship and barks a few reassuring words. Chewie searches in vain for his captain. Something catches the Wookiee's eye and he lets out a loud SHRIEK.

It is Han and Leia running toward the ship. Chewie runs out into the falling ice, lets out another SHRIEK, then runs up the ship's ramp. Han and Leia run up the ramp after Chewie. Threepio is not far behind.

203. INT MILLENNIUM FALCON COCKPIT - INT ICE CAVE

Ice batters the cockpit windows as Chewie works at the controls. Han rushes in and sits in the pilot's seat. Chewie barks a blue streak at his friend.

HAN
I couldn't get back any faster. It's pretty shaky out there.

Chewie starts chattering a mile a minute about something and points to one of the gauges. Han looks worried.

HAN
I know... I know. It's not good. But cheer up... one way or another it will be over soon

204. SCENE MOVED

204X. INT ICE CORRIDOR - REBEL BASE - HOTH

Imperial troops appear pushing through an ice blockage. Vader is revealed.

204Y. INT COMMAND CENTER - REBEL BASE - HOTH

Imperial troops come rushing through. Vader surveys the place. A huge ice chunk falls, almost hitting him. He continues around it.

205. INT MAIN HOLD MILLENNIUM FALCON - MAIN HANGAR - HOTH.

Han standing before a control panel, is busy flipping switches as Chewie watches the troublesome gauge. Leia worriedly watches their efforts.

HAN
How's that, Chewie?

The Wookiee barks a negative reply.

LEIA
Would it help if I got out and pushed?

HAN
Don't worry, your holiness, I'll get her started.

Threepio clanks into the hold.

THREEPIO
Sir, I was wondering if I might...

[Han gives the gold robot a devastating look.]

THREEPIO (Continued)
It can wait

Threepio turns and makes a hasty retreat.

LEIA
This bucket of bolts is never going to get us past that blockade.

HAN
This baby's got a few surprises left in her.

LEIA
I'll be surprised if we ever start moving.

Chewie lets out a loud WHELP as laser bolts begin to hit the cockpit window.

206. INT COCKPIT - MILLENNIUM FALCON - MAIN HANGAR - HOTH.

SIDE VIEW - Han and Chewie look out the window and see a squad of stormtroopers rushing into the hangar deck, firing. Han makes a final panel adjustment.

HAN
Well, I've tried everything, Chewie... You'll just have to switch over, and hope for the best.

Chewie pulls back on the controls and the first stage of engine fire can be heard. Han flashes a big grin at Leia as he swings past her into the pilot's seat.

Leia straps herself into one of the navigator's chairs.

LEIA
Someday you're going to be wrong, and I just hope I'm there to see it.

Han sets himself, looks at Chewie.

HAN
Punch it!

The roar of the Falcon's main engines blast out everything as the ice cave wall rushes by outside the cockpit window, moving right to left.

HAN
(shouts)
Chewie!

Han straps himself into the seat. Leia gets into the navigator's chair.

206W. INT MAIN HANGAR DECK - HOTH

Stormtroopers are setting up a large Bazooka-like weapon. Behind them the giant hangar doors are opening.

206X. EXT MILLENNIUM FALCON - MAIN HANGAR - HOTH

A laser gun appears and swings around.

206Y. EXT MILLENNIUM FALCON - MAIN HANGAR - HOTH

Long shot main hangar. Angle behind Stormtroopers with Millennium Falcon in background.

The Stormtroopers are preparing to fire their Bazooka cannon when they are hit by the gun on the Millennium Falcon. They are thrown about in all directions.

206Z. INT MILLENNIUM FALCON - MAIN HANGAR - HOTH

Chewie comes dashing into the cockpit.

HAN
We'll just have to switch over, and hope for the best.

A laser hits the window near Chewie as he is settling into his chair. He lets out a loud WHELP. Chewie pulls back on the controls and the first stage of engine fire can be heard. Han flashes a big grin at Leia.

LEIA
Someday you're going to be wrong, and I just hope I'm there to see it.

Han looks at Chewie.

HAN
Punch it!

The roar of the Falcon's main engines blast out everything as the ice cave wall rushes by outside the cockpit window, moving right to left.

207. OMIT

207X. INT MAIN HANGAR - HOTH

Stormtroopers run into hangar. Vader comes out of an ice corridor. The roar of the Millennium Falcon engines is very loud. He stops.

207Y. POV VADER - INT MAIN HANGAR - HOTH

Shooting toward the main hangar doors as the Millennium Falcon (which is now through the door) lifts up and disappears.

208. EXT ICE SLOPE - MILLENNIUM FALCON - HOTH

FULL SHOT of Luke and two other pilots looking up in the snowstorm as the Millennium Falcon races from the distance and over the camera. The ship is flying very close to the ground.

209. EXT SKY OVER ICE SLOPE - HOTH

Luke's POV Millennium Falcon racing skyward.

210. EXT ICE SLOPE - X WING - HOTH

Luke, Wedge, and the pilot trudge onward toward the outline of an X wing fighter.

LUKE
There goes the Falcon. At least Han got away. Wedge, that looks like yours over there.

WEDGE
Right. Good luck, Luke.

The pilots split up. Luke waves as the others disappear in the windblown snow. He walks on, and hears a familiar whistle coming from the vague silhouette of a fighter.

LUKE
Artoo, is that you?!

Artoo chirps an excited acknowledgement as Luke climbs aboard the snow-covered spacecraft. Artoo beeps his relief. The roar of the departing X wings can be heard in the distance.

LUKE
Don't worry, we'll be airborne in a second. Open the cockpit and activate the power.

211. INT MAIN HANGAR DECK - REBEL BASE - HOTH

Darth Vader strides through the remains of the rebel fortress. Two stormtroopers struggle to keep up with the giant presence. Admiral Piett catches up with the Dark Lord.

PIETT
Seventeen ships destroyed, we don't know how many got away.

VADER
Anything on the Millennium Falcon?

PIETT
It won't get through the blockade.

VADER
I want that ship.

212. EXT MILLENNIUM FALCON - TIE FIGHTER - STAR DESTROYER - SPACE

FULL SHOT, SPACE, with the white planet of Hoth in the lower part of the frame. The Millennium Falcon speeds away from the planet and over camera, closely followed by one huge Star Destroyer and six tiny Tie fighters which also race past camera. The slow moving Star Destroyer fills the frame as it plows ever forward.

213. EXT MILLENNIUM FALCON - TIE FIGHTERS - STAR DESTROYER - SPACE

FULL SHOT, SPACE. The Falcon races low over camera toward two very bright star-sized objects. The six Tie fighters zoom overhead in pursuit followed by a huge Imperial Star Destroyer.

214. INT COCKPIT - MILLENNIUM FALCON - SPACE

OVERSHOULDER HAN AND CHEWIE. Inside the cockpit Chewie lets out a loud howl. Han checks the deflectors as the ship begins to get buffeted by exploding flak. He appears to be doing six things at once.

HAN
(harried)
I know, I know, I see them...

LEIA
See what?

HAN
Two more Star Destroyers heading right at us.

LEIA
I'm glad you said there was going to be no problem, or I'd be worried.

Threepio bumps and bangs his way into the cockpit.

THREEPIO
Sir, I was wondering...

HAN
Sit down, and shut up!

THREEPIO
It can wait.

215. INT COCKPIT MILLENNIUM FALCON - SPACE

FULL SHOT INT MILLENNIUM FALCON. POV out window at two approaching Star Destroyers as they grow larger. Small flashes of light on the oncoming Star Destroyers turn into large flak bursts which rock the Falcon. The Star Destroyers grow larger as they get ever closer.

HAN
Chewie, how's the deflector shield holding up?

Chewie barks a reply as he readjusts an overhead switch.

HAN
Good... at sub-light, they may be faster, but we can still outmaneuver them. Hold on!

216. INT COCKPIT MILLENNIUM FALCON - SPACE

CLOSE POV - out the Falcon cockpit window as the stars and looming Star Destroyers suddenly shift radically, rising through the top of the cockpit window as the Millennium Falcon starts into a steep dive. Everyone's stomach is in their throat as Han makes a ninety degree dive straight down.

217. EXT MILLENNIUM FALCON - STAR DESTROYERS - SPACE

FULL SHOT underneath one of the huge oncoming Star Destroyers as the Millennium Falcon races toward it. Suddenly the Falcon starts into a steep dive straight down toward camera. The Falcon races over camera followed by four Tie fighters. The bottom side of the Star Destroyer continues on a collision course.

218. EXT STAR DESTROYERS - SPACE

A huge Star Destroyer in the foreground heads right at two oncoming Star Destroyers and slowly starts to veer to the left.

219. INT STAR DESTROYER NO. 2 BRIDGE - SPACE

INT IMPERIAL STAR DESTROYER - Out the front window the two oncoming Star Destroyers can be seen veering to the left.

Alarms, panic. Pilots are abandoning their posts as the Imperial Star Destroyers on the view-scanner get closer. The Captain tries to keep control of the situation.

CAPTAIN NEEDA
Turn it! Turn it!

220. EXT SPACE - MILLENNIUM FALCON - TIE FIGHTERS

FULL SHOT, SPACE - The Millennium Falcon races to camera followed by four Tie fighters with laser bolts.

221. INT COCKPIT - MILLENNIUM FALCON - SPACE

Things have calmed down a bit, but the race isn't over yet. Chewie barks at Han. Leia is still trying to find her stomach. The ship is buffeted by laser blasts.

HAN
That slowed them down a bit. Chewie stand by to make the jump to light speed.

The buffeting of the lasers becomes louder and stronger.

LEIA
They're getting awfully close...

With a gleam in his eye.

HAN
Oh yeah... Watch this.

222. INT MILLENNIUM FALCON - COCKPIT

REVERSE POV over shoulder out cockpit window as stars DO NOT go into hyperspace, but just sit there.

223. INT MILLENNIUM FALCON - COCKPIT

Han and Chewie look at each other and are thrown into an acute state of concern.

LEIA
Watch what?

Han tries again... nothing.

HAN
I think we're in trouble.

THREEPIO
If I may say so, Sir, I noticed earlier that the entire main paralight system seems to be damaged.

HAN
We're in trouble!

The explosions become heavier.

224. EXT MILLENNIUM FALCON - TIE FIGHTERS - STAR DESTROYER SPACE

FULL SHOT - The Falcon races over camera into the starry vastness followed by six Imperial Tie Fighters and an Imperial Star Destroyer.

225. EXT SPACE LUKE'S X WING - HOTH

FULL SHOT, HOTH - Luke's fighter speeds away from the tiny planet, wings closed.

226. EXT LUKE'S X WING - SPACE

FULL SHOT - Luke's fighter over camera, wings closed disappears into stars.

227. INT COCKPIT - LUKE'S X WING - SPACE

CLOSE SHOT Luke's interior fighter, very small planet in background. He makes a decision and flips several switches.

228. IN