---

The Adventures of Luke Starkiller
as taken from the "Journal of the Whills"
by
George Lucas

(Saga I)
STAR WARS

Revised Fourth Draft
March 15, 1976
Lucasfilm Ltd.
20th Century Fox

NOTE: The * (asterisk) symbol to the left of the character name indicates some of the most significant dialogue contributions by Gloria Katz and Willard Huyck, which they wrote for the revised fourth draft. Source: Laurent Bouzereau, Star Wars: The Annotated Screenplays, 1997.

FADE IN...

A long, long time ago in a galaxy far, far away
an incredible adventure took place...

FADE OUT...

FADE IN

1. EXT. SPACE

A vast sea of stars serves as the backdrop for the MAIN TITLE. War drums echo through the heavens, as a ROLLUP slowly crawls into infinity...

It is a period of civil wars in the galaxy. A brave alliance of underground freedom fighters has challenged the tyranny and oppression of the awesome GALACTIC EMPIRE.

Striking from a fortress hidden among the billion stars of the galaxy, rebel spaceships have won their first victory in a battle with the powerful Imperial starfleet. The EMPIRE fears that another defeat could bring a thousand more solar systems into the rebellion, and Imperial control over the galaxy would be lost forever.

To crush the rebellion once and for all, the EMPIRE is constructing a sinister new battle station. Powerful enough to destroy an entire planet, its completion spells certain doom for the champions of freedom.

The awesome yellow planet of Tatooine emerges from a total eclipse. A tiny silver spacecraft races into view, followed by a giant Imperial starship. Hundreds of deadly laser bolts streak from the Imperial warship, causing the main solar fin of the rebel craft to disintegrate. The smoldering rebel ship is quickly overtaken by the Imperial craft.

2. INT. REBEL SPACEFIGHTER - MAIN PASSAGEWAY

An explosion rocks the ship as two robots, ARTOO DETOO (R2-D2) and SEE THREEPIO (C-3PO) struggle to make their way through the shaking bouncing passageway. Both robots are old and battered. Artoo is a short claw-armed tripod. His face is a mass of computer lights, surrounding a radar eye. Threepio, on the other hand, is a tall slender robot of human proportions. He has a gleaming bronze-like metallic surface of an "Art Deco" design

THREEPIO
Did you hear that? They've shut down the main reactor. We'll be destroyed for sure. This is madness!!

The little dwarf robot makes a series of electronic sounds that only another robot could understand. Rebel troops rush past the robots and take up position in the main passageway. Tension mounts as loud metallic footsteps and the scraping screams of heavy equipment are heard moving around on the outside of the hull of the ship.

THREEPIO
There is no escape for the Captain this time...

Suddenly, a tremendous blast opens up a hole in the main passageway and a score of fearsome stormtroopers make their way into the smoking corridor. In a few moments the entire passageway blazes with laser fire. The deadly bolts ricochet in wild random patterns creating huge explosions. Stormtroopers scatter and duck behind storage lockers. Laser bolts hit several rebel soldiers who scream and stagger through the smoke, holding shattered arms and faces.

An explosion hits near the robots and the lanky Threepio becomes entangled in the mass of dangling wires, which spark and pop every time he attempts to move. Artoo waddles to his friends aid.

THREEPIO
Help me! I think something is melting... This is all your fault! I should have known better than to trust the logic of a half-sized thermocapsulary dehousing assister...

Artoo counters with an angry rebuttal as the battle rages around the two hapless robots.

3. EXT. TATOOINE - DESERT WASTELAND - DAY

A death-white wasteland stretches from horizon to horizon. The tremendous heat of two huge twin suns settles on a lone figure, LUKE STARKILLER, a farm boy with heroic aspirations who looks much younger than his twenty years. His shaggy hair and baggy tunic give him the air of a simple, but lovable lad with a prize-winning smile.

A light wind whips at him as he adjusts several valves on a large battered moisture vaporator which sticks out of the desert floor much like an oil pipe with valves. He is aided by a beat-up tread-robot with six claw arms. The little robot appears to be barely functioning and moves with jerky motions. A bright sparkle in the morning sky catches Luke's eye and he instinctively grabs a pair of electrobinoculars from his utility belt.

He stands transfigured for a few moments studying the heavens, then dashes toward his dented, crudely repaired landspeeder (auto-like transport that travels a few feet above the ground on a magnetic field). He motions for the tiny robot to follow him.

LUKE
Hurry up! Come with me! What are you waiting for?! Get it in gear!

The robot scoots around in a tight circle, stops short and smoke begins to pour out of every joint. Luke throws his arms up in disgust. Exasperated, the young farm boy jumps into his landspeeder leaving the smoldering robot to hum madly.

A3. INT. REBEL STARFIGHTER - MAIN HALLWAY

The awesome, seven-foot tall DARK LORD OF THE SITH makes his way into the blinding light of the main passageway. This is DARTH VADER, right hand of the Emperor. His face is obscured by his flowing black robes and grotesque breath mask which stands out next to the fascist white armored suits of the Imperial stormtroopers. Everyone instinctively backs away from the imposing warrior and a deathly quiet sweeps through the Rebel troops. Several of the rebel troops break and run in a frenzied panic.

4. INT. REBEL SPACEFIGHTER - SUB HALLWAY

Threepio stands in a smoky hallway, somewhat bewildered. Artoo is nowhere in sight. The pitiful screams of the doomed rebel soldiers can be heard in the distance.

THREEPIO
R-2! R-2-D-2 where are you?

A familiar clanking sound attracts 3-PO's attention and he spots little Artoo at the end of the hallway in a smoke-filled alcove. Kneeling in front of Artoo, a beautiful young girl, surreal and out of place (almost a dream half hidden in the smoke), finishes adjusting something on his computer face then watches as the little robot joins his companion. Threepio takes only momentary notice of the girl and then she is gone.

*THREEPIO
Where have you been? They're heading in this direction. What are you going to do? We'll be sent to the spice mines of Kessel or smashed into who-knows-what! Wait, where are you going?

Artoo scoots past his bronze friend and races down the sub-hallway. Threepio chases after him.

5. OMITTED

6. INT. REBEL SPACEFIGHTER - COCKPIT CORRIDOR

The evil Darth Vader stands among the broken and twisted
bodies of his foes. He grabs a wounded rebel officer by
the neck and holds him high above the ground. An Imperial
officer rushes up to the Dark Lord.

IMPERIAL OFFICER
The information retrieval system has been wiped clean.

Vader squeezes the neck of the rebel trooper, who struggles in vain.

VADER
Where is the data you intercepted? What have you done with those information tapes?

REBEL OFFICER
We intercepted no information! This is a consular ship... didn't you see our markings! We're on a diplomatic mission...

VADER
(Angry)
Where are those tapes?

REBEL OFFICER
Only... only the commander knows...

VADER
This ship carries the crest of Alderaan. Is any of the royal family on board? Who were you carrying?

The rebel refuses to speak but eventually cries out as the Dark Lord begins to squeeze the officer's throat, creating a gruesome snapping and choking, until the soldier goes limp. Vader tosses the dead soldier against the wall and turns to his troops.

VADER
Start tearing this ship apart piece by piece until you have those tapes. Find the passengers of this vessel. I want them alive.

The stormtroopers scurry into the sub-hallways.

A6. INT. REBEL SPACEFIGHTER - LIFEPOD BAY

Artoo stops before the small hatch of an emergency lifepod. He snaps the seal on the main latch and a red warning light begins to flash. The stubby astro-robot works his way into the cramped four-man pod.

THREEPIO
Hey, you're not permitted in there. It's restricted. You'll be deactivated for sure. Now come out before someone sees you. Come on!

Artoo whistles something at his reluctant friend regarding the mission he is about to perform.

THREEPIO
Mission!?! What mission? What are you talking about? You've short-circuited... no more adventures. I'm not getting in there!

Artoo isn't happy with Threepio's stubbornness and he beeps
and twangs angrily.

THREEPIO
Don't call me a mindless philosopher, you overweight glob of grease...

A new explosion, this time very close, sends dust and debris through the narrow sub-hallway. Flames lick at Threepio and after a flurry of electronic swearing from Artoo, the lanky robot jumps into the lifepod.

THREEPIO
I'm going to regret this.

The safety door snaps shut and with the thunder of exploding latches,the tiny lifepod ejects from the disabled starfighter.

B6. INT. IMPERIAL STARDESTROYER - COCKPIT

On the main viewscreen, the lifepod carrying the two terrified robots speeds away from the stricken rebel spacecraft. In the foreground a huge mechanical arm lifts a computer panel out of a cabinet.

CHIEF PILOT
There goes another one.

CAPTAIN
Hold your fire. There are no life forms. It must have short-circuited. Don't waste your power...

C6. INT. REBEL SPACEFIGHTER - NARROW SUB-HALLWAY

The lovely young girl (about sixteen years old) huddles in a small alcove as the stormtroopers search through the ship. She is PRINCESS LEIA ORGANA, a member of the Alderaan Senate. The fear in her eyes slowly gives way to anger as the muted crushing sounds of the approaching stormtroopers grow louder. One of the troopers spots her and radios to the others.

TROOPER
Set for stun...

Leia steps from her hiding place and blasts two troopers with her laser pistol. She starts to run but is felled by a paralyzing ray. The troopers inspect her inert body.

TROOPER
She'll be all right. Report to Lord Vader.

7. EXT. SKY OVER TATOOINE - LIFEPOD

The reddish-yellow mass of Tatooine seems to engulf the tiny lifepod containing the two robots. The starships grow smaller as the pod descends toward the planet.

A7. INT. LIFEPOD

Artoo and Threepio look out at the receding starships.

THREEPIO
That's funny. The damage doesn't look as bad from out here. Are you sure this thing is safe?

8 EXT. ANCHORHEAD SETTLEMENT - POWER STATION - DAY

Heat waves radiate from the dozen or so bleached white buildings. Luke pilots his landspeeder through the dusty empty street of the tiny settlement. An old WOMAN runs to get out of the way of the speeding vehicle, shaking her fist at Luke as he flies past.

WOMAN
I've told you kids to slow down!

Luke pulls up behind a low concrete service station that is all but covered by the shifting desert sands.

9. INT. POWER STATION - DAY

Luke bursts into the power station, waking THE FIXER, a rugged mechanic and CAMIE, a sexy disheveled girl who has been asleep on his lap. They grumble as he races through the office, yelling wildly.

FIXER
Did I hear a young noise blast through here?

CAMIE
It was just Wormie on another rampage.

Luke bounces into a small room behind the office where DEAK and WINDY, two tough boys about the same age as Luke, are playing a computer pool-like game with BIGGS, a burly, handsome boy a few years older than the rest. His flashy city attire is a sharp contrast to the loose-fitting tunics of the farm boys. A robot repairs some equipment in the background.

LUKE
Shape it up you guys!... Biggs?

Luke's surprise at the appearance of Biggs gives way to great joy and emotion. They give each other a great bear hug.

LUKE
I didn't know you were back! When did you get in?

BIGGS
Just now, I wanted to surprise you, hot shot. I thought you'd be here... certainly didn't expect you to be out working.
(He laughs).

LUKE
The academy didn't change you much... but you're back so soon? Hey, what happened, didn't you get your commission?

Biggs has an air of cool that seems slightly phony.

BIGGS
Of course I got it. Signed aboard THE RAND ECLIPTIC last week. First mate Biggs Darklighter at your service...
(he salutes)
... I just came back to say good-bye to all you unfortunate landlocked simpletons.

Everyone laughs. The dazzling spectacle of his dashing friend is almost too much, but suddenly he snaps out of it.

LUKE
I almost forgot. There's a battle going on! Right here in our system. Come and look!

DEAK
Not again! Forget it.

10. EXT. ANCHORHEAD SETTLEMENT - POWER STATION - DAY

The group stumbles out into the stifling desert sun. Camie and The Fixer complain and are forced to shade their eyes. Luke has his binoculars out scanning the heavens.

LUKE
There they are!

Biggs take the binoculars from Luke as the other strain to see something with the naked eye. Through the binoculars Biggs sees two small silver specks.

BIGGS
That's no battle, hot shot... they're just sitting there! Probably a freighter-tanker refueling.

LUKE
But there was a lot of firing earlier...

Camie grabs the binoculars away banging them against the
building in the process. Luke grabs them.

LUKE
Hey, easy with those...

CAMIE
Don't worry about it, Wormie.

Fixer gives Luke a hard look and the young farm boy shrugs his shoulders in resignation.

FIXER
I keep telling you, the rebellion is a long way from here. I doubt if the Empire would even fight to keep this system. Believe me Luke, this planet is a big hunk of nothing...

Luke agrees, although it's obvious he isn't sure why. The group stumbles back into the power station, grumbling about Luke's ineptitude.

11. INT. REBEL SPACEFIGHTER - HALLWAY

Princess Leia is led down a low-ceilinged hallway by a squad of armored stormtroopers. Her hands are bound and she is brutally shoved when she is unable to keep up with the briskly marching troops. They stop in a smoking hallway as Darth Vader emerges from the shadows. The sinister Dark Lord stares hard at the frail young senator, but she doesn't move.

LEIA
Lord Vader, I should have known. Only you could be so bold. The Imperial senate will not sit still for this, when they hear you've attacked a diplomatic...

VADER
Don't play games with me Your Highness.You weren't on any mercy mission this time.You passed directly through a restricted system. Several transmissions were beamed to this ship by spies, who are now unfortunately dead. I want to know what happened to the data they sent you.

LEIA
I don't know what you're talking about.I'm a member of the imperial senate on a diplomatic mission to...

VADER
You're a part of the Rebel Alliance... and a traitor. Take her away.

Leia is marched away down the hallway and into the smoldering hole blasted in the side of the ship. An Imperial commander turns to Vader.

COMMANDER
Holding her is dangerous. If word of this gets out, there will be much unrest in the senate. It will generate sympathy for the rebellion... She should be destroyed.

VADER
My duty is to find that hidden fortress of theirs. We have traced the rebel spies to her now she is my only link to discovering the location of their secret base and I intend to use it.

COMMANDER
She'll die before she gives you any information.

VADER
Leave that to me. Send a distress signal. Call it a meteorite storm. Then inform her father and the senate that all aboard were killed.

The troopers approach Vader and the commander. They stop and snap to attention.

TROOPER
The data tapes are not on board this ship. No transmissions were made. A malfunctioning repair pod was jettisoned during the fighting, but we've confirmed that there were no life form aboard...

VADER
They must have put the tapes in the repair pod. Send a detachment down to retrieve them be subtle. Don't attract attention... vaporize this ship. Don't leave anything.

Vader turns to the commander.

The data on those tapes could prove to be most damaging. I want that stolen data destroyed at all costs. See to it personally, Commander. There will be no one to save them now.

The commander gives the Dark Lord a short bow and exits.

12-13. OMITTED

14. EXT. TATOOINE - EDGE OF THE DUNE SEA

JUNDLAND or "No Man's Land" where the rugged desert mesas meet the foreboding dune sea. The two helpless astro-robots kick up clouds of dust as they leave the lifepod and clumsily work their way across the desert coastline. The lifepod rests half buried in the sand in the distance.

THREEPIO
What a forsaken place this is. We seem to be made to suffer. It's our lot in life. I've got to rest before I fall apart. My joints are almost frozen.

Suddenly Artoo makes a sharp right turn and starts off in the direction of the rocky desert mesas. Threepio stops and yells at him.

THREEPIO
Where do you think you're going!?

A stream of electronic noises pour forth from the small robot.

THREEPIO
Well, I'm not going that way. It's too rocky. This way is much easier. What makes you think there are any settlements that way?

Artoo counters with a long whistle.

THREEPIO
Don't get technical with me. I've had just about enough of you. Go that way, go on! You'll be malfunctioning within a day, you nearsighted scrap pile!

He shoves Artoo and the tiny robot tumbles down a small dune. Threepio starts off in the direction of the vast dune sea as little Artoo struggles to his feet.

THREEPIO
... and don't let me catch you following me, begging for help... because you won't get it!

Artoo's reply is a rather rude sound. He turns and trudges off in the direction of the towering mesas.

15. EXT. TATOOINE - DUNE SEA

Threepio, hot and tired, struggles up over the ridge of a dune, past the bleached bones of a dinosaur-like beast, only to find more dunes which seem to go on for endless miles. He looks back in the direction of the now distant rock mesas.

THREEPIO
You little malfunctioning twerp. This is all your fault. You tricked me into going this way but you'll do no better.

He sits in a huff of anger and frustration, knocking the sand from his joints. His plight seems hopeless, when a glint of reflected light in the distance reveals an object moving toward him. The bronze android waves frantically and yells at the approaching transport.

THREEPIO
Hello! Over here! This way.

16. EXT. POWER STATION - DAY

Luke and Biggs are walking and drinking a malt brew. Fixer and the others can be heard working inside.

LUKE
(Very animated)
... so I cut off my power, shut down the afterburners and came in low on Deak's trail. I was so close I thought I was going to fry my instruments. As it was I busted up the Skyhopper pretty bad. Uncle Owen was pretty upset. He grounded me for the rest of the season. You should have been there... it was fantastic.

BIGGS
You ought to take it a little easy Luke. You may be the hottest bushpilot this side of Mos Eisley, but those little skyhoppers are dangerous. Keep it up, and one day whammo! you're going to be nothing more than a dark spot on the down side of a canyon wall.

LUKE
Look who's talking. Now that you've been around those giant starships you're beginning to sound like my uncle. You've gotten soft in the city...

BIGGS
I've missed you kid.

LUKE
Well, things haven't been the same since you left Biggs. It's been so... quiet.

Biggs looks around then leans close to Luke.

BIGGS
Luke, I didn't come back just to say good-bye... I shouldn't tell you this but you're the only one I can trust... and if I don't come back, I want somebody to know.

Luke's eyes are wide with Biggs' seriousness and loyalty.

LUKE
What are you talking about?

BIGGS
I made some friends at the Academy...
(whispering)
... when our frigate goes to one of the central systems, we're going to jump ship and join the Alliance...

Luke is amazed and stunned almost speechless.

LUKE
Join the rebellion?! Are you kidding! How?!?

BIGGS
Quiet down will ya! You got a mouth bigger than a meteor crater!

LUKE
I'm sorry. I'm quiet.
(whispering)
Listen how quiet I am. You can barely hear me...

Biggs shakes his head angrily and then continues.

BIGGS
My friend has a friend on Bestine who might help us make contact.

LUKE
You're crazy! You could wander around forever trying to find them.

BIGGS
I know it's a long shot, but if I don't find them I'll do what I can on my own... It's what we always talked about. Luke, I'm not going to wait for the Empire to draft me into service. The rebellion is spreading and I want to be on the right side - the side I believe in.

LUKE
And I'm stuck here...

BIGGS
I thought you were going to the academy next term. You'll get your chance to get off this rock.

LUKE
Not likely! I had to cancel my application. There has been a lot of unrest among the sandpeople since you left... they've even raided the outskirts of Anchorhead.

BIGGS
Your uncle could hold off a whole colony of sandpeople with one blaster.

LUKE
I know, but he's got enough vaporators going to make the place pay off. He needs me for just one more season. I can't leave him now.

BIGGS
I feel for you Luke, you're going to have to learn what seems to be important from what really is important. What good is all your Uncle's work if its taken over by the Empire... You know they're starting to nationalize commerce in the central systems... it won't be long before your Uncle is merely a tenant, slaving for the greater glory of the Empire.

LUKE
It couldn't happen here. You said it yourself, the Empire won't bother with this rock.

BIGGS
Things always change.

LUKE
I wish I was going... Are you going to be around long?

BIGGS
No, I'm leaving in the morning...

LUKE
Then I guess I won't see you.

BIGGS
Maybe someday... I'll keep a lookout.

LUKE
Well, I'll be at the Academy next season... after that who knows, I won't be drafted into the Imperial Starfleet that's for sure... take care of yourself, you'll always be the best friend I've got.

BIGGS
So long, Luke.

Biggs turns away from his old friend and heads back towards the power station.

17. EXT. TATOOINE - ROCK CANYON - SUNSET

The gargantuan rock formations are shrouded in a strange foreboding mist and the ominous sounds of unearthly creatures fill the air. Artoo moves cautiously through the creepy rock canyon, inadvertently making a loud clicking noise as he goes. He hears a distant, hard, metallic sound and stops for a moment. Convinced he is alone, he continues on his way.

In the distance, a pebble tumbles down the steep canyon wall and a small dark figure darts into the shadows. A little further up the canyon a slight flicker of light reveals a pair of eyes in the dark recesses only a few feet from the narrow path.

The unsuspecting robot waddles along the rugged trail until suddenly out of nowhere, a powerful magnetic ray shoots out of the rocks and engulfs him in an eerie glow. He manages one short electronic squeak before he topples over onto his back. His bright computer lights flicker off, then on, then off again. Out of the rocks scurry three MEN, no taller than Artoo. They holster strange and complex weapons as they cautiously approach the robot. They wear grubby cloaks and their faces are shrouded so that only their glowing yellow eyes can be seen. They hiss and make odd guttural sounds as they heave the heavy robot to their shoulders and carry him off down the trail.

18. EXT. TATOOINE - ROCK CANYON - SANDCRAWLER - SUNSET

The eight JAWAS carry Artoo out of the canyon to a huge tank-like vehicle the size of a four-story house. They weld a small disk on the side of Artoo and then put him under a large tube on the side of the vehicle and the little robot is sucked into the giant machine.

The filthy little Jawas scurry like rats up small ladders and enter the main cabin of the behemoth transport.

19. OMITTED

20. INT. SANDCRAWLER - PRISON AREA

Artoo enters a wide room with a four-foot ceiling. In the middle of the scrap heap sit a dozen or so robots of various shapes and sizes. Some are engaged in electronic conversation, while others simply mill about. A voice of recognition calls out from the gloom.

THREEPIO
Artoo Detoo! It's you! It's you!

A battered Threepio scrambles up to Artoo and embraces him. He also has a small disc attached to his chest.

21. EXT. TATOOINE - ROCK CANYON - SANDCRAWLER - SUNSET

The enormous sandcrawler lumbers off toward the magnificent twin suns which are slowly setting over a distant mountain ridge.

22. INT. DEATH STAR CONFERENCE OFFICE

Eight Imperial Senators and Generals sit around a black conference table. Six Imperial stormtroopers stand guard around the room. A younger, slimy, looking general, Commander Tagge is speaking.

TAGGE
I tell you he's gone too far. This Sith Lord sent by the Emperor will be our undoing. Until this battle station is fully operational we are vulnerable. The rebel Alliance is too well equipped. They are more dangerous than you realize.

The wounded Admiral Motti twists nervously in his chair.

MOTTI
Dangerous to your starfleet commander, not to this Battle Station! I think Lord Vader knows what he's doing. The rebellion will continue only as long as those cowards have a sanctuary...

TAGGE
I think the construction of this station has more to do with Governor Tarkin's bid for recognition than any prudent military strategy. The rebellion will continue to gain support in the Imperial senate as long as...

Suddenly all heads turn as Commander Tagge's speech is cut short and the entrance of the Grand Moff Tarkin, governor of the Imperial outland regions. He is followed by his powerful henchman the Sith Lord, Darth Vader. All of the generals stand and bow before the thin, evil looking Governor as he takes his place at the head of the table. The Dark Lord stands behind him.

TARKIN
The Imperial Senate will no longer be of any concern to us... I have just received word that the Emperor has dissolved the Council permanently! The last remnants of the old republic have finally been swept away.

TAGGE
Impossible. How will the Emperor maintain control without the bureaucracy?

TARKIN
The regional governors now have direct control over their territories. Fear will keep the local systems in line... Fear of this battle station.

TAGGE
And what of the Rebellion? If the Rebels have obtained a complete technical readout of this battle station it is possible - however unlikely - that they might find a weakness and exploit it.

VADER
The technical data you're referring to will soon be back in our hands.

MOTTI
Any attack made against this station by the rebels would be a useless gesture.. no matter what technical datas they've obtained. This battle station is now the ultimate power in the universe.

Vader stirs slightly and a cup mysteriously floats into his hand.

VADER
Don't be too proud of this technological terror you have created. The ability to destroy a planet, or whole system is insignificant next to the cosmic Force.

MOTTI
Don't try to frighten us with your sorcerer's ways, Lord Vader. Your sad devotion to that ancient religion has not helped you conjure up those stolen data tapes... or given you clairvoyance enough to find the rebel's hidden fortress. I have to laugh .. ah...

Suddenly Motti chokes and starts to turn blue under Vader's spell.

VADER
I find your lack of faith disturbing.

TARKIN
Enough of this! Vader, release him. This bickering is pointless. Lord Vader will provide us with the location of the rebel fortress by the time this station is operational. We will then crush this rebellion with one swift stroke.

VADER
As the Emperor wills it, so it shall be.

23-24. OMITTED

25. INT. SANDCRAWLER - PRISON AREA

Threepio and Artoo noisily bounce along inside the cramped prison chamber. Artoo appears to be shut off.

THREEPIO
Will this never end?

Suddenly the trembling and bouncing of the sandcrawler stops, creating quite a commotion among the mechanical men. Threepio shakes Artoo and his computer lights pop on.

THREEPIO
Wake up! Wake up! We've stopped!! We're doomed! Do you think they'll melt us down?

At the far end of the long chamber a hatch opens filling the chamber with blinding white light. A dozen or so Jawas make their way through the odd assortment of robots. Artoo and Threepio are among the chosen and are herded outside with several other unfortunates.

26. EXT. TATOOINE - LAR'S HOMESTEAD - SALT FLAT - AFTERNOON

Five battered robots, including Artoo and Threepio are lined up in front of the enormous sandcrawler which is parked beside a small homestead consisting of three large holes in the ground, surrounded by several tall moisture vaporators and one small adobe block house.

The Jawas scurry around fussing over the robots, straightening them up or brushing some dust from a dented metallic elbow. The shrouded little creatures smell horribly, attracting small insects to the dark areas when their mouths and nostrils should be.

Out of the shadows of a dingy side-building limps OWEN LARS, a large burly man in his mid-fifties. His reddish eyes are sunken in a dust covered face. As the farmer carefully inspects each of the robots, he is closely followed by his slump-shouldered nephew, Luke Starkiller. One of the vile little Jawas walks ahead of the farmer spouting an animated sales pitch in a queer unintelligible language.

A voice calls out from one of the huge holes that form the homestead. Luke goes over to the edge and sees his Aunt Beru standing in the main courtyard.

BERU
Luke, tell Owen that if he gets a translator, to be sure it speaks "Bocce".

LUKE
It looks like we don't have much of a choice but I'll remind him.

Owen picks out a small astro-robot similar to Artoo and it waddles along behind the group. The limping farmer stops in front of Threepio and studies him carefully.

OWEN
Do you function in etiquette and protocol?

THREEPIO
Do I know protocol. Why it's my primary function .. I am well versed in the customs and...

OWEN
I don't need a protocol droid.

THREEPIO
(quickly)
I don't blame you, sir... not in an environment such as this - that's why I've also been programmed for over thirty secondary functions that...

OWEN
I need a droid that knows something about the binary languages of moisture vaporators.

THREEPIO
Vaporators! Sir .. My first job was programming binary load lifters .. very similar in most respects to your... vaporators. You could say...

OWEN
Do you speak "Bocce?"

THREEPIO
Of course, sir. It's like a second language for me .. I'm as fluent in Bocce...

OWEN
Shut up! (turning to Jawa) I'll take this one.

THREEPIO
Shutting up, sir.

OWEN
Luke, take them to the garage. I want you to have both of them cleaned up by dinner.

LUKE
But I was going into Toshi Station to pick up some power converters...

OWEN
You can waste time with your friends after you've finished your chores. Now get to it!

As the Jawas start to lead the three remaining robots back into the sandcrawler, Artoo lets out a pathetic little beep and starts after his old friend Threepio but is restrained by a slimy Jawa who zaps him with a control box. Owen is negotiating with the head Jawa. Luke and the two robots start for the garage when a plate pops off the head of the R-2 unit throwing parts all over the ground.

LUKE
Uncle Owen, this R-2 unit has a bad motivator, look!

He adjusts the R-2 unit's head plate and it sparks wildly.

OWEN (to head Jawa)
What are you trying to push on us?

The Jawa goes into a loud spiel. Meanwhile, Artoo has sneaked out of line and is moving up and down trying to attract attention. He lets out with a low whistle. Threepio taps Luke on the shoulder.

THREEPIO
If I might say so sir, but that R-2 unit is in top condition... a real bargain.

LUKE (to Uncle)
What about that one?

Owen argues with the Jawas for a few moments, then with a little reluctance the scruffy dwarf trades the damaged astro-robot for Artoo Detoo. Owen pays off the whining Jawa as Luke and the two robots trudge off toward a grimy homestead entry.

THREEPIO
Don't forget this! Why I stick my neck out for you is beyond my capacity ..

27. INT. LARS HOMESTEAD - GARAGE AREA - LATE AFTERNOON

The garage is cluttered and worn, but a friendly peaceful atmosphere permeates the low gray chamber. In the center of the room Threepio lowers himself into a large tub filled with warm oil. Near the battered landspeeder little Artoo rests on a large battery with a cord attached to his face.

THREEPIO
Thanks the maker! This is going to feel sooo good. I've got such a bad case of dust contamination I can barely move!

Artoo beeps a muffled reply. Luke seems to be lost in thought as he runs his hand over the damaged fin of a small two-man "sky-hopper" spaceship resting in a low hangar off the garage. Finally Luke's frustrations get the better of him and he slams a wrench across the workbench.

LUKE
It just isn't fair! Biggs is right, I'll never get out of here!

THREEPIO
I beg your pardon sir, but is there anything I might do to help?

Luke glances at the battered robot and a bit of his anger drains and a tiny smile creeps across his face.

*LUKE
Not unless you can alter time... speed up the harvest... or teleport me off this rock

*THREEPIO
Uh - I don't think so, sir. I'm only a droid and not very knowledgeable about such things... not on this planet anyway. As a matter of fact, sir, I'm not even sure which planet I'm on.

*LUKE
If there's a bright center to this universe, you're on the planet that's the farthest from it.

*THREEPIO
I see, sir.

*LUKE
You can call me Luke.

*THREEPIO
Yes, Sir Luke.

*LUKE
Just Luke.

*THREEPIO
Oh. I am See-Threepio, Human Cyborg relations and this is my counterpart, Artoo Detoo.

Luke unplugs Artoo and begins to scrape several connectors on the robot's head with a chrome pick. Threepio climbs out of the oil tub and begins wiping oil from his bronze body.

LUKE
There's a lot of carbon scoring here. It looks like you both have seen a lot of action...

THREEPIO
Indeed sir, sometimes I'm amazed we're in as good shape as we are, what with the rebellion and all.

Luke sparks to life at the mention of rebellion.

LUKE
You know of the rebellion? Against the Empire?

THREEPIO
That's how we came to be in your service, if you take my meaning...

LUKE
Tell me where you've been. Were you been in many battles?

THREEPIO
Several, I think. There is not much to tell. I'm not much more than an interpreter and not very good at telling stories, not at making them interesting anyways...

Luke struggles to remove a small metal fragment from Artoo's neck joint. He uses a larger pick.

LUKE
Well, my little friend, you've got something jammed in here real good... were you on a star-cruiser or a...

The fragment breaks loose with a snap, sending Luke tumbling head over heels. He sits up and sees a small (12 inch) 3-D hologram of Leia Organa, the rebel senator, being projected from the face of little Artoo. The image is a rainbow of colors as it flickers and jiggles in the dimly lit garage. Luke's mouth hangs open in awe.

LEIA
... Obi-wan Kenobi... help me! You're my only ho...

LUKE
What's this?

Artoo looks around and sheepishly beeps an answer for Threepio to translate. Leia continues to repeat the sentence fragment over and over.

THREEPIO
What is what?!? He asked you a question...
(pointing at Leia)
What is that?

Artoo beeps his surprise as he pretends to just notice the hologram and whistles his reply.

THREEPIO
He says it's nothing, sir. Merely a malfunction. Old data, pay it no mind.

Luke becomes intrigued by the beautiful young girl.

LUKE
Who is she?... She's beautiful.

THREEPIO
I'm afraid I'm not quite sure sir! I think she was a passenger on our last voyage. A person of some importance I believe. Our captain was attache to...

LUKE
Is there any more to this recording?

Luke reaches for Artoo but he lets out several frantic squeaks and a whistle.

THREEPIO
Behave yourself, Artoo. You're going to get us into trouble. It's all right. He's out master now. You can trust him.

Artoo whistles and beeps a long message to Threepio.

THREEPIO
He says he is the property of Obi-wan Kenobi, a resident of these parts. And it is a private message for him. Quite frankly sir, I don't know what he's talking about... our last master was Captain Antilles, but with all we've been through, I'm afraid he's become a bit eccentric.

LUKE
Obi-wan Kenobi? I wonder if he means old Ben Kenobi?

THREEPIO
I begging your pardon sir, but do you know him?

LUKE
I don't know anyone named Obi-wan, but old Ben lives out beyond the dune sea. He's sort of a strange old hermit. Uncle Owen says he's a sorcerer. He comes around here once in awhile, to trade things. I've hardly even talked to him though. My uncle usually runs him off... but he doesn't have any droid... at least I don't think he does...

Luke's gazes at the beautiful young princess for a few moments.

LUKE
I wonder who she is... she must be important. It sounds to me like she's in trouble. Maybe the message is important... I should hear the rest of it.

Luke reaches for little Artoo and the little Artoo squeaks a blue streak.

THREEPIO
He says the restraining bolt has short circuited his recording system... he suggests that if you remove the restraining bolt, he might be able to repeat the entire recording.

Luke looks longingly at the lovely little princess and hasn't really heard what Threepio has been saying.

LUKE
What... of yes... well I guess you're too small to run away on me if I take this off... I wonder what she's be sending a message to old Ben for?

Luke takes a wedged bar and pops the restraining bolt off R-2's side. The princess immediately disappears...

LUKE
There now... wait, where did she go? Make her come back. Play back the entire message...

Artoo beeps an innocent reply. Threepio sits up in embarrassment.

THREEPIO
What message? The one you just played for us. The one you're carrying inside your rusty innards! I'm sorry sir, but he appears to have picked up a slight flutter... perhaps...

A women's voice calls out from another room.

AUNT BERU
Luke! Luke, come to dinner.

Luke stands up and shakes his head at the malfunctioning robot.

LUKE
OK, I'm coming Aunt Beru... Oh well, see what you can do with him. I'll be right back.

Luke tosses Artoo's retraining bolt on the work bench and hurries out of the room.

THREEPIO
You better consider playing that recording for him. (Artoo beeps) No, I don't think he likes you at all. (Artoo beeps) No, I don't like you either.

28. INT. LAR'S [sic] HOMESTEAD - KITCHEN - LATE AFTERNOON

Luke's Aunt Beru, a warm motherly woman, fills a pitcher with blue milk from a refrigerated container in the well used kitchen. She puts the pitcher on a tray with some bowls of food and starts for the dining area.

Luke sits with his Uncle Owen before a table covered with steaming bowls of food as Aunt Beru carries in the pitcher of blue milk.

LUKE
I think that R-2 unit might have been stolen.

OWEN
What makes you think that?

LUKE
I stumbled on a recording while I was cleaning him... the droid claims to be the property of someone called Obi-wan Kenobi.

Owen is greatly alarmed at the mention of this name, but manages to control himself.

LUKE
I thought he might have meant old Ben. The name is similar... do you know who he's talking about?

OWEN
It's a name from another time, that can only mean trouble...

LUKE
Is he related to old Ben. I didn't think he had...

Owen breaks loose with a fit of uncontrolled anger.

OWEN
You stay away from that old wizard, do you hear me! I've told you he's a crazy old man. He's dangerous and full of mischief... and best left well alone. That droid has nothing to do with him. Tomorrow I want you to take the R-2 unit into Anchorhead and have its memory flushed. That will be the end of it. I don't care where the droid came from, it belongs to us now.

LUKE
But what if this Obi-wan comes looking for the droid?

OWEN
He won't, I don't think he exists anymore. He died at the same time as your father. Now forget about it.

LUKE
Did he know my father?

OWEN
I said forget about it. Your only concern is getting the new droids ready for tomorrow. The last of our savings is tied up in those two. In the morning I want you to have them working with the condensing units on the south ridge.

LUKE
Yes sir... you know I think those droids are going to work out fine. In fact... I uh... I was also thinking about our agreement about me staying on another season. Well, if those new droids work out, I want to transmit my application to the academy this year.

Owen's face becomes a scowl, although he tries to suppress it.

OWEN
You mean next term, before the harvest?

LUKE
You got more than enough droids.

OWEN
Droids can't replace you Luke, you know that. The harvest is when I need you the most. It's just one more season.

Luke continues to toy with his food, not looking at his uncle.

OWEN
For the first time, we've got a fortune beyond belief coming into our hands. We'll make enough this harvest to hire some extra hands then you can go to the academy... I need you here Luke. You understand that don't you?

LUKE
But it's another year...

OWEN
The time will pass before you know it.

Luke pushes his half-eaten plate of food aside and stands.

LUKE
That's what you said last year when Biggs and Tank left.

BERU
Where are you going?

LUKE
It looks like I'm going nowhere. I have to finish cleaning those droids.

Resigned to his fate, Luke paddles out of the room. Owen mechanically finishes his dinner.

BERU
Owen, we can't keep him here forever. Most of his friends are gone. It means so much to him.

OWEN
I'll make it up to him. Next year... I promise.

BERU
Luke's just not a farmer, Owen. He's got too much of his father in him.

OWEN
That's what I'm afraid of.

29. EXT. TATOOINE - LAR'S [sic] HOMESTEAD - ENTRY AREA - SALT FLAT

The giant twin suns of Tatooine slowly disappear behind a distant dune range. Luke stands watching them for a few moments, then reluctantly enters the domed entrance to the homestead.

A29. INT. GARAGE AREA - LAR'S HOMESTEAD

Luke enters the garage to discover the robots nowhere in sight. He takes a small control box from his utility belt. (Similar to the one the Jawa's were carrying). He activates the box which creates a low hum and Threepio pops up from behind the skyhopper spaceship letting out a short yell.

LUKE
What are you hiding back there for?

Threepio stumbles forward but Artoo is still nowhere in sight.

THREEPIO
It wasn't my fault sir. Please don't deactivate me. I told him not to go but he's faulty, malfunctioning... kept babbling on about his mission.

LUKE
Oh no...

Luke races out of the garage followed by Threepio.

B29. EXT. TATOOINE ENTRY AREA - LAR'S HOMESTEAD - SALT FLAT - SUNSET

Luke rushes out of the small domed entry to the homestead and searches the darkening horizon for the small tri-ped astro-robot. Threepio struggles out of the homestead and on to the salt flat as Luke scans the landscape with his electrobinoculars.

THREEPIO
That Artoo unit has always been a problem. These astro droids are getting too much for me. Even I can't understand their logic at times.

LUKE
Well, he's nowhere in sight. Blast it, how could I be so stupid. Uncle Owen's going to kill me.

THREEPIO
Beggin' your pardon sir, but can't we go after him?

LUKE
Not at night. It's too dangerous with all the sandpeople around. We'll have to wait until morning.

Owen yells up from the homestead plaza.

OWEN
Luke! Luke are you finished with those droids yet? I'm turning the power down for the night.

LUKE
Alright, I'll be there in a few minutes.

He turns and takes one final look across the dim horizon.

LUKE
Boy, am I in for it. That little droid is going to get me into a lot of trouble.

THREEPIO
Oh, he excels at that sir.

30-31. OMITTED

32. INT. PLAZA LAR'S HOMESTEAD - MORNING

Morning slowly creeps into the sparse but sparkling oasis of the open courtyard. The idyll is broken by the yelling of Uncle Owen, his voice echoing throughout the homestead.

OWEN
Luke! Luke. Where could he be loafing now?

A32. INT. LAR'S HOMESTEAD - KITCHEN AREA - MORNING

The interior of the kitchen is a warm glow as Beru prepares the morning breakfast. Owen enters in a huff.

OWEN
Have you seen Luke this morning?

BERU
He said he had some things to do before he started today, so he left early.

OWEN
Did he take the new droids with him?

BERU
I think so.

OWEN
He's better have those condensing units on the south ridge repaired by midday or there'll be hell to pay.

B32. EXT. TATOOINE - EDGE OF THE DUNE SEA

Four Imperial Stormtroopers mill about in front of the half buried lifepod which brought Artoo and Threepio to Tatooine. A trooper yells to an officer some distance away.

TROOPER
This is the one. But there are no data tapes here, sir.

A second trooper, standing next to the officer picks a small bit of metal out of the sand and give it to the officer.

OFFICER
Droids!

33. EXT. DESERT WASTELAND - LUKE'S SPEEDER - DAY

The rock and sand of the desert floor are a blur as Threepio pilots the sleek landspeeder gracefully across the vast wasteland.

34. INT/EXT. LUKE'S SPEEDER - DESERT WASTELAND - TRAVELING - DAY

Luke adjusts something in the motor compartment.

LUKE
(yelling)
How's that?

Threepio signals that it is fine and Luke turns back into the wind-whipped cockpit and pops the canopy shut.

LUKE
Old Ben Kenobi lives out in this direction somewhere, but I don't see how that R-2 unit could have come this far. We must have missed him. Uncle Owen isn't going to take this very well.

THREEPIO
Sir, would it help if you told him it was my fault.

LUKE
(brightening)
Sure. He needs you. He'd probably only deactivate you for a day or so...

THREEPIO
Deactivate! Well on the other hand if you hadn't removed his restraining bolt...

LUKE
Wait, there's something dead on the scanner. It looks like our droid... hit the accelerator.

35. EXT. TATOOINE - ROCK MESA - DUNE SEA - COASTLINE - DAY

From high on a rock mesa, the tiny landspeeder can be seen gliding across the desert floor. Suddenly in the foreground two weather-beaten sandpeople shrouded in their grimy desert cloaks peer over the edge of the rock mesa. One of the marginally human creatures raises a long ominous laser rifle and points it at the speeder but the second creature grabs the gun before it can be fired.

The sandpeople or Tusken raiders as they're sometimes called speak in a coarse barbaric language as they get into an animated argument. The second Tusken seems to get in the final word and the nomads scurry over the rocky terrain.

36. EXT. TATOOINE - ROCK MESA CANYON

The Tusken raiders approach two large BANTHAS standing tied to a rock. The monstrous bear-like creatures are as large as elephants, with huge red eyes, tremendous looped horns and long furry dinosaur-like tails. The raiders mount saddles strapped to the huge creatures' shaggy backs and ride off down the rugged bluff.

37. EXT. ROCK CANYON FLOOR - TATOOINE

The speeder is parked on the floor of a massive canyon. Luke with his long laser rifle slung over his shoulder stands before little Artoo.

LUKE
Just where do you think you're going?

The little droid whistles a feeble reply, as Threepio poses menacingly behind the little runaway.

THREEPIO
Master Luke here is your rightful owner. We'll have no more of this Obi-wan Kenobi gibberish... and don't talk to me of your mission. You're fortunate he doesn't blast you into a million pieces right here.

LUKE
Well, come on. It's getting late. I only hope we can get back before Uncle Owen really blows up.

THREEPIO
If you don't mind my saying so sir, I think you should deactivate the little fugitive until you've gotten him back to your workshop.

LUKE
No he's not going to try anything.

Suddenly the little robot jumps to life with a mass of frantic whistles and screams.

*LUKE
What is it? What's wrong with him now?

*THREEPIO
Oh my... sir, he says there are several creatures approaching from the southeast.

Luke swings his rifle into position and looks to the south.

LUKE
Sandpeople! Or worse! I've never been out this far before. The wild things out here are said to be weird and savage.

38. EXT. TATOOINE - CANYON RIDGE - DAY

Luke carefully makes his way to the top of a rock ridge and scans the canyon with his electrobinoculars. He spots the two riderless Banthas. Threepio struggles up behind the young adventurer.

LUKE
There are two Banthas down there but I don't see any... wait a second, they're sandpeople all right. I see one of them.

Luke watches the distant Tusken Raider through his electrobinoculars. Suddenly something huge moves in front of his field of view. Before Luke or Threepio can react, a large gruesome Tusken Raider looms over them. Threepio is startled and backs away, right off the side of the cliff. He can be heard for several moments as he clangs, bangs and rattles down the side of the mountain.

The towering creature brings down his curved, double pointed "Gaderffii" - the dreaded axe blade that has struck terror in the heart of the local settlers. But Luke manages to block the blow with his laser rifle, which is smashed to pieces. The terrified farm boy scrambles backward until he is forced to the edge of a deep crevice. The sinister raider stands over him with his weapon raised and lets out a horrible shrieking laugh.

39. EXT. TATOOINE - ROCK CANYON FLOOR - DAY

Artoo forces himself into the shadows of a small alcove in the rocks as the vicious sandpeople walk past carrying the inert Luke Starkiller, who is dropped in a heap before the speeder. The raiders ransack the speeder, throwing parts and supplies in all directions. Suddenly they stop. Then

everything is quiet for a few moments. A great howling moan is heard echoing throughout the canyon which sends the sandpeople fleeing in terror.

Artoo moves even tighter into the shadows as the slight swishing sound that frightened off the sandpeople grows even closer, until a shabby old desert rat of a man appears and leans over Luke. His ancient leathery face, cracked and weathered by exotic climates is set off by dark, penetrating eyes and a scraggly white beard. BEN KENOBI squints his eyes as he scrutinizes the unconscious farm boy. Artoo makes a slight sound and Ben turns and looks right at him.

BEN
Hello there! Come here my little friend. Don't be afraid.

Artoo waddles over to where Luke lies crumpled in a heap and begins to whistle and beep his concern. Ben puts his hand on Luke's forehead and he begins to come to.

BEN
Don't worry, he'll be all right.

LUKE
What happened?

BEN
Rest easy son, you've had a busy day. You're fortunate you're still in one piece.

LUKE
Ben? Ben Kenobi am I glad to see you!

BEN
The Jundland wastes are not to be traveled lightly. Tell me young Luke, what brings you out this far?

LUKE
This little droid! I think he's searching for his former master... I've never seen such devotion in a droid before... there seems to be no stopping him. He claims to be the property of someone called Obi-wan Kenobi. Is he a relative of yours? Do you know who he's talking about?

Ben ponders this for a moment, scratching his scruffy beard.

BEN
Obi-wan Kenobi... Obi-wan. Now that's a name I haven't heard in a long time... a long time. Most curious...

LUKE
I think my Uncle knew him. He said he was dead...

BEN
Oh, he's not dead, not yet... not yet.

LUKE
You know him!

BEN
Of course, of course I know him, he's me! I haven't gone by the name Obi-wan since before you were born.

LUKE
Then this droid does belong to you.

BEN
Can't seem to remember ever owning a droid. Most interesting... most interesting.

He suddenly looks up at the overhanging cliffs.

BEN (cont'd)
I think it's best we get inside. The sandpeople are easily startled but they will soon return in greater numbers.

Luke sits up and rubs his head. Artoo lets out a pathetic beep causing Luke to remember something. He looks around.

LUKE
... Threepio!

40. EXT. TATOOINE - SAND PIT - ROCK MESA - DAY

Little Artoo stands at the edge of a large sand pit and begins to chatter away in electronic whistles and beeps. Luke and Ben stand over a very dented and tangled Threepio lying half buried in the sand. One of his arms has broken off.

Luke tries to revive the inert robot by shaking him and then flips a hidden switch on his back several times until finally the mechanical man's systems turn on.

THREEPIO
Where am I? Oh, I'm sorry, sir. I must have taken a bad step...

LUKE
Can you stand? We've got to get out of here before the sandpeople return.

THREEPIO
I don't think I can make it. You go on Master Luke. It doesn't make sense for you to risk yourself on my account. I'm done for.

LUKE
No, you're not. What kind of talk is that?

Luke and Ben help the battered robot to his feet. Little Artoo watches from the top of the pit. Ben glances around suspiciously. Sensing something, he stands up and sniffs the air.

BEN
Quickly son, they're on the move.

41. OMITTED

42. INT. CAVE DWELLING - MAIN LIVING AREA

The small, spartan hovel, is cluttered with desert junk, but still manages to radiate an air of time worn comfort and security. Luke is in one corner repairing Threepio's arm, as old Ben fiddles with Artoo.

BEN
Now let's see if we can't figure out what you are my little friend and where you came from.

LUKE
I saw part of a message he...

Luke is cut short, as the recorded image of the beautiful young rebel princess is projected from R-2's face.

BEN
Yes, I seem to have found it.

Luke stops his work as the lovely girl's image flickers before his eyes.

PRINCESS LEIA
General Obi-wan Kenobi, I present myself in the name of the royal family of Alderaan, and the Alliance to restore the Republic. I break your solitude at the bidding of my father Bail Antillies, Viceroy and Chairman of the Alderaan system. Years ago Commander you served the Republic in the Clone Wars. Now he begs you to aid us again in our most desperate hours. He would have you join him on our home planet Alderaan. You must go to him! I regret I am unable to present my father's request to you in person... my mission to return with you has failed, information vital to the survival of the Alliance has been placed in this droid... my father will know how to retrieve it. I plead with you to see this R-2 unit safely delivered to Alderaan. You must help me, you are my last hope.

There is a little static and the transmission is cut short Old Ben leans back and scratches his head. He silently puffs on a tarnished chrome water pipe. Luke has stars in his eyes.

LUKE
She is so... terrific. Commander?? You fought in The Clone Wars??

BEN
Oh yes... I was once a Jedi knight... like your father.

LUKE
Jedi knight?? My father didn't fight in the wars. He was a navigator.... on a spice freighter.

BEN
Oh so your Uncle told you .. He didn't agree with your father's ideals, thought he should have stayed here and not gotten involved. He was always afraid your father's adventures might influence you ..

LUKE
I wish I'd known him...

BEN
He was the best starpilot in the galaxy and a clever warrior... he was a good friend. I understand you've become quite a good pilot yourself... in many ways you're much like your father.

Ben gets up and goes to a chest, where he rummages around.

BEN (cont'd)
Which reminds me, I have something here for you. When you were old enough, your father wanted you to have this. I tried to give it to you but your uncle wouldn't allow it. He believed you might follow old Obi-wan on some idealistic crusade as your father did.

Luke finishes repairing Threepio and starts to fit the restraining bolt back on, Threepio looks at him nervously, Luke thinks about the bolt for a moment then puts it on the table. Ben shuffles up and presents Luke with a short handle with several electronic gadgets attached to it.

THREEPIO
Sir, if you'll not be needing me, I think I'll shut down for a while.

LUKE
Sure, go ahead.
(to BEN)
What is it?

BEN
Your father's light saber. At one time they were widely used... I believe they still are in some parts of the galaxy...

Luke pushes a button on the handle and a long laser beam shoots out about four feet, flickers there.

BEN (cont'd)
This is the weapon of a Jedi Knight... not as clumsy or random as a blaster. An elegant weapon... for a more civilized time.
(He begins to remember)
For over a thousand generations Jedi Knights were the most powerful, most respected force in the galaxy... the guardians of peace and justice in the old republic. That was when the galactic senate ruled the galaxy before the dark times, before the empire.

Luke hasn't really been listening.

LUKE
How did my father die?

BEN
He was betrayed and murdered... by a young Jedi, Darth Vader. A boy I was training, one of my brightest disciples, one of my greatest failures... He used the power of the force for evil - to help the empire hunt down and destroy the Jedi knights, now the Jedi are all but extinct. Vader was seduced by the dark side of the force and it consumed him.

LUKE
The force??

BEN
The force is... let's just say the force is something a Jedi deals with. It is an energy field created by living things - it surrounds us - it binds the galaxy together - it directs our actions. Knowledge of the force is what gives a Jedi his power. You must learn the ways of the force if you are to come with me to Alderaan.

LUKE
Alderaan!?? I'm not going to Alderaan. I've got to get back home! It's late, I'm in for it as it is... you can take the droid... I'll think of something to tell my uncle... I hope...

BEN
I need your help, Luke. I'm afraid I'm getting too old for this sort of thing ..

LUKE
I can't get involved, I've got work to do. I mean I don't like the empire... I hate it... but there is nothing I can do about it right now... it's all such a long way from here.

BEN
That's your uncle talking.

LUKE
Oh, my uncle. How am I going to explain all this.

BEN
Remember, the Force is with all men, it binds them together. The suffering of one is the suffering of all.

LUKE
I can take you as far as Anchorhead. You can get transport there to the spaceport at Mod Eisley or wherever you're going...

BEN
You must do what you feel.

LUKE
Right now I don't feel too good...

A42. INT. DEATH STAR - PRISON CELL CORRIDOR

Two stormtroopers open an electronic cell door and allow several Imperial guards to enter. Princess Leia's face is filled with defiance which slowly gives way to fear as a giant black torture robot enters, followed by Darth Vader.

VADER
Now your highness we will discuss the location of the hidden rebel base.

The door slides shut, the long cell block hallway appears peaceful. The muffled sounds of the rebel princess are barely heard.

B42EXT. MESA CANYON - SANDCRAWLER - DAY

The speeder stops before what remains of the huge Jawa sandcrawler. Luke and Ben walk among the smoldering rubble and scattered bodies.

LUKE
Looks like the sandpeople did it alright. There's Bantha tracks and part of those gaffi sticks. But we never heard of them hitting something this big.

Ben is crouching in the sand studying the tracks.

BEN
They didn't. But we were meant to think so, look at these tracks. Whoever left here rode side by side. Sandpeople always ride in a single file to hide their number. Look at these blast points. Sandpeople are not this accurate. Only Imperial stormtroopers are this precise.

LUKE
These are the same Jawas who sold us Artoo and Threepio. Why would Imperial troops be slaughtering Jawas?

Luke looks back at the speeder where Artoo and Threepio are inspecting the dead Jawas.

LUKE
If they tracked the robots to the Jawas they may have learned who they sold them to. That will lead them back... home.

Luke reaches a sudden horrible realization and races for the speeder and jumps in.

BEN
Wait Luke, it's too dangerous.

Luke races off leaving Ben and the two robots alone with the burning sandcrawler.

BA42. EXT. DESERT WASTELAND

Luke races across the flat landscape.

C42. EXT. HOMESTEAD - SALT FLAT - TATOOINE

The speeder roars up to the burning homestead. Luke jumps out and runs to the smoking holes that were once his home. Debris is scattered everywhere and it looks as if a great battle has taken place.

LUKE
Aunt Beru! Aunt Beru! Uncle Owen!

Luke stumbles around in a daze looking for his aunt and uncle. Suddenly he comes upon their smoldering remains.

LUKE
No!

D42 INT. MAIN CONTROL ROOM - DEATH STAR

Darth Vader and the regional Governor Moff Tarkin stand before a huge screen that shows a million stars. Admiral Motti and General Tagge are standing with them.

MOTTI
The final check out is completed and all systems are operational. What course shall we set?

VADER
She has a great deal of control. Her resistance to the mind probe is considerable. It will still be some time before we can extract any useful information from her.

TARKIN
Perhaps she would respond to an alternative form of persuasion.

VADER
What do you mean?

TARKIN
I think it is time we demonstrated the full power of this station. Set your course for Alderaan...

E42. EXT. MESA CANYON - SANDCRAWLER - DAY

There is a large bonfire of dead Jawas blazing in front of the sandcrawler as Ben and the robots finish burning the dead. Luke drives up in the speeder and Ben walks over to him.

BEN
I share your sorrow, Luke. There is nothing you could have done, had you been there, you'd now be dead and the droids would be in the hands of the Empire. The Force is with you.

LUKE
I'll take you to the spaceport at Mos Eisley. I want to go with you to Alderaan. There is nothing here for me now... I want to learn the ways of the Force - I want to become a Jedi like my father.

43-45. OMITTED

46. EXT. TATOOINE - WASTELAND - DAY

The speeder zooms across the desert wasteland.

47. EXT. TATOOINE - BLUFF OVERLOOKING MOS EISLEY SPACEPORT - DAY

The speeder stops on a bluff overlooking the spaceport at MOS EISLEY. It is a haphazard array of low gray concrete structures and semidomes. A harsh gale blows across the stark canyon floor. Luke adjusts his goggles and walks to the edge of the craggy bluff where Ben is standing.

BEN
Well, there it is, Mos Eisley Spaceport. You won't find a more wretched hive of scum and villainy. The Empire is on the alert, so we must be very cautious.

Ben looks over Luke who gives the old Jedi a determined
smile.

LUKE
I'm ready for anything.

48. EXT. MOS EISLEY SPACEPORT - STREET - LATE AFTERNOON

The speeder is stopped on a crowded street by several combat hardened stormtroopers who look over the two robots. A trooper questions Luke.

TROOPER
How long have you had these droids?

LUKE
Three of four seasons.

BEN
They're up for sale, if you want them.

TROOPER
Did you come from the south?

LUKE
Ahh .. No, no .. We live in the west... near Bestine.

TROOPER
Let me see your identification...

Luke becomes very nervous as he fumbles to find his I.D. Ben speaks to the trooper in a very controlled voice.

BEN
You don't need to see his identification.

TROOPER
I don't need to see your identification.

BEN
These aren't the Droids you're looking for.

TROOPER
These aren't the Droids we're looking for.

BEN
He can go about his business.

TROOPER
You can go about your business.

Luke looks relieved but astonished.

BEN (to Luke)
Move along.

TROOPER
Move along.

49. EXT. MOS EISLEY SPACEPORT - CANTINA - DAY

The speeder pulls up in front of a rundown blockhouse cantina on the outskirts of the spaceport. Various strange forms of transport, including several unusual beasts of burden are parked outside the bar. A Jawa runs up and begins to fondle the speeder. Luke shoos the vile little creature away.

THREEPIO
I can't abide those Jawas. Disgusting creatures.

LUKE
(to Ben)
I can't understand how we got by those troops, I thought we were dead.

BEN
The Force is a strong influence on the mind... it's a powerful ally but as you come to know the force, you will discover it can also be a danger...

LUKE
Do you really think we can find a pilot who will take us to Alderaan?

BEN
Most of the good freighter pilots frequent here but watch you step, this place can be a little rough.

50. INT. MOS EISLEY CANTINA - DAY

The young adventurer and his two mechanical servants follow Ben Kenobi into the smoke-filled cantina. The murky, moldy den is filled with a startling array of weird and exotic alien creatures and monsters, laughing at the long metallic bar. At first the sight is horrifying. One-eyed, thousand-eyed, slimy, furry, scaly tentacles and claws huddle over drinks. Ben and Luke move to an empty spot at the bar near a group of repulsive but human Corellian pirates. A huge rough-looking BARTENDER comes over to Luke and the robots.

BARTENDER
We don't serve "their kind" in here.

Luke still recovering from the shock of seeing so many outlandish creatures doesn't quite catch the Bartender's drift.

LUKE
What?

BARTENDER
Your "droids" will have to wait outside. We don't serve 'em here.

Luke looks to old Ben who is busy talking to one of the Corellian pirates. He notices that several of the gruesome creatures along the bar are giving him a very unfriendly glare.

LUKE
Yes, of course. I'm so sorry.
(Turns to Threepio)
You'd better stay with the speeder. We don't want any trouble.

THREEPIO
I heartily agree with you sir.

Threepio and his stubby partner go outside and most of the creatures at the bar go back to their drinks. Ben is standing next to CHEWBACCA, an eight foot tall savage-looking creature resembling a huge gray bushbaby monkey with fierce "baboon-like" fangs. His large yellow eyes dominate a fur-covered face and soften his otherwise awesome appearance. Over his matted, furry body he wears two chrome bandoliers, a flak jacket painted in a bizarre camouflage pattern, brown cloth shorts and little else. He is a two hundred year old WOOKIEE and a sight to behold. Ben speaks to the wookiee pointing to Luke several times during his conversation and the huge creature suddenly lets out a horrifying laugh. Luke is more than a little bit disconcerted and pretends not to hear the conversation between Ben and the giant wookiee. He is terrified but tries not to show it. He quietly sips his drink, looking over the crowd for a more sympathetic ear or whatever.

A large, multiple-eyed CREATURE gives Luke a rough shove.

CREATURE
Negola dewaghi wooldugger?!?

The hideous freak is obviously drunk. Luke tries to ignore the creature and turns back to his drink. A short, grubby HUMAN and an even smaller RODENT-like beast join the belligerent monstrosity.

HUMAN
He doesn't like you.

LUKE
I'm sorry.

HUMAN
I don't like you either.

The big creature is getting agitated and yells some unintelligible gibberish at the now rather nervous young adventurer.

HUMAN (cont'd)
Don't insult us. You just watch yourself. We're wanted men. I have the death sentence on twelve systems.

LUKE
I'll be careful then.

HUMAN
You'll be dead.

The rodent lets out a loud grunt and everything at the bar moves away. Luke tries to remain cool but it isn't easy. His three adversaries ready their weapons. Old Ben moves in behind Luke.

BEN
This little one isn't worth the effort. Come let me buy you something...

A powerful blow from the unpleasant creature sends the young would-be Jedi sailing across the room, crashing through tables and breaking a large jug filled with a foul-looking liquid. With a blood-curdling shriek, the monster draws a wicked chrome laser pistol from his belt and levels it at old Ben.. The bartender panics.

BARTENDER
No blasters! No blasters!

With an astounding agility, Old Ben's laser sword sparks to
life and in a flash an arm lies on the floor. The rodent is
cut in two and the giant, multiple-eyed creature lies double, cut from chin to groin. Ben carefully and precisely turns off his laser sword and replaces it on his utility belt. Luke, shaking and totally amazed at the old man's abilities, attempts to stand. The entire fight has lasted only a matter of seconds. The cantina goes back to normal, although Ben is given a respectable amount of room at the bar. Luke, rubbing his bruised head, approaches the old man with new awe.

BEN
This is Chewbacca, he's first-mate on a ship that might suit our needs.

ZA50. EXT. MOS EISLEY CANTINA STREET DAY

Threepio paces in front of the cantina as Artoo carries on an electronic conversation with another little red R-2 unit.

THREEPIO
What could be taking them so long?

A patron comes out of the cantina and approaches two stormtroopers in the street.

THREEPIO
I don't like the looks of this.

ZB50. INT. MOS EISLEY CANTINA - DAY

Luke is still giddy and downs a fresh drink as he follows Ben and Chewbacca to a booth where HAN SOLO is sitting. He is a tough James Dean style starpilot about thirty years old. A mercenary in a starship, simple, sentimental and cocksure of himself. A lovely young alien girl has her arms around him but the young space rogue sends her bouncing on her way as the group approaches.

HAN
You're pretty handy with that saber old man, not often one sees that kind of sword play on this side of the galaxy. I'm Han Solo, Captain of the Millennium Falcon. Chewie tells me you're looking for passage to the Alderaan system.

BEN
Yes indeed. If it's a fast ship.

HAN
Fast ship! You mean you've never heard of the Millennium Falcon?

BEN
(amused)
Should I?

HAN
It's the ship that made the Kessel run in less than 12 par-sec's! I've outrun Imperial starships, not local bulk-cruisers mind you. These are the big Corellian ships I'm talking about. I think she's fast enough for you old man. What's your cargo?

BEN
No questions. Is it local trouble?

BEN
Let's just say we'd like to avoid any Imperial entanglements.

HAN
These days, that can be a real trick. And it will cost you a little extra. All in... about ten thousand... in advance.

LUKE
Ten thousand! We could almost buy our own ship for that.

HAN
But could you fly it?

LUKE
(Insulted - starts to get up)
You bet I could. I'm not such a bad pilot myself... I don't...

BEN
(Sits Luke down)
We haven't that much with us. But, we could pay you two thousand now, plus another fifteen when we reach Alderaan.

Han ponders this for a few moments.

HAN
That's seventeen... alright. You've got yourselves a ship. Docking Bay 94. We can take off as soon as you're ready... looks like someone's taking an interest in your handi-craft.

Ben and Luke turn around to see four Imperial stormtroopers looking at the dead bodies and asking the bartender some questions. The Bartender points to the booth. The stormtroopers look over at it but Luke and Ben are gone. The bartender shrugs his shoulders in puzzlement.

A50. EXT. MOS EISLEY STREET CANTINA

Luke and Ben secure Artoo to the back of the speeder.

BEN
If the speed of Solo's ship is as fast as his boasting, we should do well.

LUKE
But it will be expensive.

BEN
I'm afraid you'll have to sell your speeder.

LUKE
It's all right. I don't think I will ever come back to this planet.

AA50. INT. CANTINA - MOS EISLEY

The stormtroopers walk past Han and Chewbacca giving them both a careful check out. Han turns to the giant Wookiee.

HAN
Chewie, this charter could save out neck. Seventeen thousand! Those two really must be desperate.

As Han and Chewbacca slide out of the booth, a slimy purple-faced alien with a short trunk nose pokes a gun in Han's side. He speaks with an electronically translated voice.

ALIEN
Going somewhere, Solo?

HAN
As a matter of fact, I was just going to see your boss. Tell Jabba that I have his money.

ALIEN
That's what you said yesterday, but it's too late... I'm not going back to Jabba with another one of your stories.

HAN
But I've got the money this time!

ALIEN
Then I'll take it now.

Han sits down and the alien sits across from him holding the gun on him.

HAN
I haven't got it here with me. Tell Jabba...

ALIEN
It's too late I think. Jabba would rather have your ship.

HAN
Over my dead body.

ALIEN
That's the idea, Solo. You will come outside with me or must I finish it here?

HAN
I don't think they'd like another killing in here.

ALIEN
They'd hardly notice... get up. I've been looking forward to this for a long time...

HAN
I bet you have...

Suddenly the slimy alien disappears in a blinding flash of light. Han pulls his smoking gun from beneath the table as the other patrons look on in bemused amazement.

HAN
... but it will take a lot more than the likes of you to finish me off...

Han gets up and starts out of the cantina, flipping the bartender some coins as he leaves.

HAN
Sorry for the mess...

B50. OMITTED

C50. EXT. MOS EISLEY SPACEPORT - ALLEYWAY

Four heavily armed stormtroopers move menacingly along a narrow slum alleyway crowded with darkly-clad creatures hawking exotic goods in dingy little stalls. Men, monsters and robots crouch in waste-filled doorways whispering and hiding from the hot winds. One of the troopers checks a tightly locked door and moves on down the alleyway. The door slides open a crack and Threepio peeks out. Artoo is barely visible in the background.

THREEPIO
I would rather have gone with Master Luke then stay here with you. I don't quite know what all the trouble is about, but I'm sure it must be your fault.
(Artoo beeps)
You watch your language.

53. EXT. ALLEYWAY - MOS EISLEY STREET - USED SPEEDER LOT

Ben and Luke are standing in a sleazy used-speeder lot, talking with a tall grotesque, insect-like used-speeder dealer. Strange exotic bodies and spindly legged beasts pass by as the insect concludes the sale by giving Luke some coins.

LUKE
He says it's the best he can do. Since the XP-38 came out, they just aren't in demand.

BEN
It will be sufficient. I've got enough to cover the rest.

Ben and Luke leave the speeder-lot and walk down the dusty alleyway past a small robot herding a bunch of anteater-like creatures. Luke turns and gives one last forlorn look at his faithful speeder as he rounds a corner. A darkly clad creature moves out of the shadows as they pass and watches them as they disappear down another alley.

AA53. INT. DOCKING BAY 94 - DAY

Jabba the Hut and a half dozen grisly pirates and purple aliens stand in the middle of the docking bay. Jabba is the grossest of the salivering hulks and his scarred face is a grim testimonial to his prowess as a vicious killer.

JABBA
Come on out Solo!

A voice from directly behind the pirates startles them and they turn around to see Han Solo and the giant Wookiee Chewbacca standing behind them with no weapons in sight.

HAN
I've been waiting for you Jabba.

JABBA
I expected you would be.

HAN
I'm not the type to run.

JABBA
(Fatherly-smooth)
Han, my boy, there are times when you disappoint me... why haven't you paid me? And why did you have to fry poor Greedo like that... after all we've been through together.

HAN
You sent Greedo to blast me.

JABBA
(Mock surprise)
Han, why you're the best smuggler in the business. You're too valuable to fry. He was only relaying my concern at your delays. He wasn't going to blast you.

HAN
I think he thought he was. Next time don't send one of those twerps. If you've got something to say to me, come see me yourself.

JABBA
Han, Han! If only you hadn't had to dump that shipment of spice... you understand I just can't make an exception. Where would I be if every pilot who smuggled for me dumped their shipment at the first sign of an Imperial starship? It's not good business.

HAN
You know, even I get boarded sometimes, Jabba. I had no choice, but I've got a charter now and I can pay you back, plus a little extra. I just need some more time.

JABBA
(To his men)
Put your blasters away. Han, my boy, I'm only doing this because you're the best and I need you. So, for an extra, say... twenty percent I'll give you a little more time... but this is it. If you disappoint me again, I'll put a price on your head, so large you won't be able to go near a civilized system for the rest of your life.

HAN
Jabba, I'll pay you because it's my pleasure.

BA53. INT. DEATH STAR - CORRIDOR

Darth Vader and a stormtrooper commander stride down one of the long Death Star corridors, followed by several aides.

COMMANDER
We've started to search the spaceport at Mos Eisley. It's just a matter of time before we've found the droids.

VADER
Send in more men if you have to. It's her hope of that data being used against us that is the pillar of her resistance to the mind probe.

COMMANDER
Until then we must waste our time with Governor Tarkin's foolish plan to break her.

CA53. OMITTED

A53. OMITTED

54. OMITTED

55. OMITTED

56. EXT. DOCKING PORT ENTRY - ALLEYWAY

Chewbacca waits restlessly at the entrance to Docking Bay 94. Ben, Luke and the robots make their way up the street. Chewbacca jabbers excitedly and signals for them to hurry. The darkly clad creature has followed them from the speeder lot. He stops in a nearby doorway and speaks into a small transmitter.

57. OMITTED

58. INT. MOS EISLEY SPACEPORT - DOCKING BAY 94

Chewbacca leads the group into the giant dirt pit that is Docking Bay 94. Resting in the middle of the huge hole is a large, round, beat-up, pieced together hunk of junk that could only loosely be called a starship.

LUKE
What a piece of junk. This ship couldn't possibly go above sub-light speeds.

The tall figure of Han Solo comes down the boarding ramp.

HAN
She may not look like much, but she's got it where it counts. I've added some special modifications myself. She'll make point five beyond light speed.

Luke scratches his head, it's obvious he's not too sure about all this. Chewbacca rushes up the ramp and urges the others to follow.

HAN
We're a little rushed, so if you'll hurry aboard, we'll be off.

The group rushes up the gang plank, passes a grinning Han Solo.

AA58. INT. PIRATE STARSHIP

Chewbacca settles into the pilot's chair and starts the mighty engines of the starship.

A58. EXT. MOS EISLEY SPACEPORT - ALLEYWAY

Eight Imperial Stormtroopers rush up to the darkly clad creatures and he points to the door of the docking bay. The troops hold their guns at the ready and charge down the docking bay entrance.

B58. INT. DOCKING BAY 94 - MOS EISLEY SPACEPORT

Han Solo looks up and sees the Imperial Stormtroopers rushing into the docking bay. Several of the troopers fire at Han as he ducks into the spaceship.

HAN
Chewie! Deflector shields quick! Get us out of here.

Han draws his laser pistol and pops off a couple of shots which force the stormtroopers to dive for safety. The starship engines whine as Han hits the release button that slams the overhead entry shut.

C58. OMITTED

59. EXT. MOS EISLEY SPACEPORT - STREET - MORNING

The half dozen stormtroopers at a check point hear the general alarm and look to the sky as the huge starship rises above the dingy slum dwellings and quickly disappears into the morning sky.

60. INT. PIRATE STARSHIP - COCKPIT

Han climbs into the pilot's chair next to Chewbacca who chatters away as he points to something on the radar scope.

HAN
It looks like an Imperial cruiser. Our passengers must be hotter than I thought. Try to hold it off, angle the deflectors until I can make the calculations for the jump to light speed.

Han frantically types information into the ship's computer. Little Artoo appears momentarily at the cockpit doorway, makes a few beeping remarks, then scurries away.

61. EXT. SPACE TATOOINE ORBIT

Pan with the pirate starship as it races away from the yellow planet, Tatooine, followed by one - two - three huge Imperial stardestroyers.

62. INT. PIRATE STARSHIP - COCKPIT

Luke and Ben make their way into the crowded cockpit where Han continues his calculations.

HAN
Stay sharp! We've got two more coming in, they're going to cut us off.

LUKE
(Sarcastically)
Can't you outrun them? I thought you said this thing was fast.

HAN
Watch your mouth kid, or you'll find yourself floating home. We'll be safe enough once we've made the jump into hyperspace. They can't track us accurately at light speeds. Plus I know a few maneuvers that should lose them.

The ship shudders as an explosion flashes outside the window.

HAN
Here's where it gets interesting.

BEN
Well, how long before you can make the jump to light speed?

HAN
It'll take a few minutes for the navi-computer to calculate the coordinates.

LUKE
A few minutes!! At the rate they're gaining....

HAN
Traveling through hyper-space isn't like dusting crops, boy. Without calculations we could pass right through a star or bounce to near a supernova. And that would end our trip real quick.

The ship is now constantly battered with laser fire as a red warning light begins to flash.

LUKE
What's that?

HAN
We're losing a deflector shield. Better strap yourselves in, we're ready to make the jump to light speed.

63. INT. MAIN HOLD AREA

The ship rocks violently as Threepio holds on to his seat for dear life. Artoo sways to and fro under the thundering impact of the incoming laser blasts.

THREEPIO
Was this trip really necessary? I forgot how much I hate space travel.

Luke and Ben enter and strap themselves into their chairs.

64 OMITTED

65 OMITTED

66. INT. DEATH STAR - CONTROL ROOM

Admiral Motti enters the quiet control room and bows before
Governor Tarkin, who stands before the huge wall screen
displaying a small green planet.

MOTTI
We are entering the Alderaan star system. We await your order.

Vader enters with Leia and two stormtroopers.

LEIA
Governor Tarkin, I should've expected to find you holding Vader's leash. I recognized your foul stench when I was brought on board.

TARKIN
Charming to the last. You don't know how hard I found it signing the order to terminate your life.

LEIA
I'm surprised you had the courage to take the responsibility yourself.

TARKIN
Princess Leia, before your execution I would like you to be my guest at a ceremony that will make this battle station operational. No star system will dare oppose the Emperor now.

LEIA
The more you tighten you grip Tarkin, the more star systems will slip through your fingers.

TARKIN
Not after we demonstrate this battle station's power. In a way, you yourself have determined the choice of the planet that will be destroyed first. Since you are reluctant to provide us with the location of the rebel stronghold, I have chosen to test the station's destructive power, on your home planet of Alderaan.

LEIA
No! Alderaan is peaceful. We have no weapons, you can't...

TARKIN
You would prefer another target? A military target? Then name the system. I grow tired of asking this, so it will be the last time. Where is the rebel base?

Leia overhears an intercom announcing the approach to Alderaan.

LEIA
(Softly)
Dantooine... they're on Dantooine.

TARKIN
There, you see Lord Vader? She can be reasonable.
(To the others)
Proceed with the operation. You may fire when ready.

LEIA
What?

TARKIN
Dantooine is too remote to be an effective demonstration... we will deal with your rebel friends soon enough.

The small green planet is blown into space dust. Princess Leia is seething with rage.

LEIA
And you call yourselves humans.

TARKIN
You are far too trusting... you will shortly see your hopeless rebellion vanish in a similar fashion.

67. INT. PIRATE STARSHIP - MAIN HOLD AREA

Ben falters, seems almost faint, then rubs his forehead as if he has a headache.

LUKE
Are you alright? What is it? What's wrong?

BEN
I feel a great ebbing in The Force, the cry of a billion voices stopping all at once. It's the feeling of death. Something terrible has happened....

Ben seems to drift into a trance, then fixes his gaze on Luke.

BEN
Continue with your exercise.

Han enters and begins checking charts and various computer readouts.

HAN
You can stop worrying about your troubles with those Imperial slugs. I told you I'd lose them.
(Nobody says anything)
Don't everybody thank me at once. Anyway, I calculate our arrival on Alderaan at of two hundred.

Chewbacca and the two robots sit around a lighted table covered with many small hologram figures. Each side of the table has a small computer monitor embedded in it. Chewbacca seems very pleased with himself as he rests his lanky fur-covered arms over his head. Artoo immediately reaches up and taps the computer with his s