|
LEIA
We don't have time for our sorrows,
Commander. The battle station has
surely tracked us here.
(looking pointedly to
Han)
It's the only explanation for the
ease of our escape. You must use the
information in this R2 unit to plan
the attack. It is our only hope.
EXT. SPACE
The surface of the Death Star ominously approaches the red
planet Yavin.
INT. DEATH STAR - CONTROL ROOM
Grand Moff Tarkin and Lord Vader are interrupted in their
discussion by the buzz of the comlink. Tarkin moves to answer
the call.
TARKIN
Yes.
DEATH STAR INTERCOM VOICE
We are approaching the planet Yavin. The Rebel base is on a
moon on the far side. We are preparing to orbit the planet.
EXT. YAVIN - JUNGLE
A lone guard stands in a tower high above the Yavin landscape,
surveying the countryside. A mist hangs over the jungle of
twisted green.
INT. MASSASSI - WAR ROOM BRIEFING AREA
Dodonna stands before a large electronic wall display. Leia
and several other senators are to one side of the giant
readout. The low-ceilinged room is filled with starpilots,
navigators, and a sprinkling of R2-type robots. Everyone is
listening intently to what Dodonna is saying. Han and
Chewbacca are standing near the back.
DODONNA
The battle station is heavily shielded
and carries a firepower greater than
half the star fleet. It's defenses
are designed around a direct large-
scale assault. A small one-man fighter
should be able to penetrate the outer
defense.
Gold Leader, a rough looking man in his early thirties, stands
and addresses Dodonna.
GOLD LEADER
Pardon me for asking, sir, but what
good are snub fighters going to be
against that?
DODONNA
Well, the Empire doesn't consider a
small one-man fighter to be any
threat, or they'd have a tighter
defense. An analysis of the plans
provided by Princess Leia has
demonstrated a weakness in the battle
station.
Artoo-Detoo stands next to a similar robot, makes beeping
sounds, and turns his head from right to left.
DODONNA
The approach will not be easy. You
are required to maneuver straight
down this trench and skim the surface
to this point. The target area is
only two meters wide. It's a small
thermal exhaust port, right below
the main port. The shaft leads
directly to the reactor system. A
precise hit will start a chain
reaction which should destroy the
station.
A murmer of disbelief runs through the room.
DODONNA
Only a precise hit will set up a
chain reaction. The shaft is ray-
shielded, so you'll have to use proton
torpedoes.
Luke is sitting next to Wedge Antilles, a hotshot pilot about
sixteen years old.
WEDGE
That's impossible, even for a
computer.
LUKE
It's not impossible. I used to bull's-
eye womp rats in my T-sixteen back
home. They're not much bigger than
two meters.
DODONNA
Man your ships! And may the Force be
with you!
The group rises and begins to leave.
EXT. SPACE
The Death Star begins to move around the planet toward the
tiny green moon.
INT. DEATH STAR
Tarkin and Vader watch the computer projected screen with
interest, as a circle of lights intertwines around one another
on the screen showing it's position in relation to Yavin and
the forth moon.
DEATH STAR INTERCOM VOICE
Orbiting the planet at maximum velocity. The moon with the
Rebel base will be in range in thirty minutes.
VADER
This will be a day long remembered.
It has seen the end of Kenobi and it
will soon see the end of the
Rebellion.
INT. MASSASSI OUTPOST - MAIN HANGAR DECK
Luke, Threepio and little Artoo enter the huge spaceship
hangar and hurry along a long line of gleaming spacefighters.
Flight crews rush around loading last-minute armaments and
unlocking power couplings. In an area isolated from this
activity Luke finds Han and Chewbacca loading small boxes
onto an armored speeder.
MAN'S VOICE
(over loudspeaker)
All flight trooper, man your stations.
All flight troops, man your stations.
Han is deliberately ignoring the activity of the fighter
pilots' preparation. Luke is quite saddened at the sight of
his friend's departure.
LUKE
So... you got your reward and you're
just leaving then?
HAN
That's right, yeah! I got some old
debts I've got to pay off with this
stuff. Even if I didn't, you don't
think I'd be fool enough to stick
around here, do you? Why don't you
come with us? You're pretty good in
a fight. I could use you.
LUKE
(getting angry)
Come on! Why don't you take a look
around? You know what's about to
happen, what they're up against.
They could use a good pilot like
you. You're turning your back on
them.
HAN
What good's a reward if you ain't
around to use it? Besides, attacking
that battle station ain't my idea of
courage. It's more like suicide.
LUKE
All right. Well, take care of
yourself, Han. I guess that's what
you're best at, isn't it?
Luke goes off and Han hesitates, then calls to him.
HAN
Hey, Luke... may the Force be with
you!
Luke turns and sees Han wink at him. Luke lifts his hand in
a small wave and then goes off.
Han turns to Chewie who growls at his captain,
HAN
What're you lookin' at? I know what
I'm doing.
INT. MAIN HANGAR DECK - LUKE'S SHIP
Luke, Leia, and Dodonna meet under a huge space fighter.
LEIA
What's wrong?
LUKE
Oh, it's Han! I don't know, I really
thought he'd change his mind.
LEIA
He's got to follow his own path. No
one can choose it for him.
LUKE
I only wish Ben were here.
Leia gives Luke a little kiss, turns, and goes off. As Luke
heads for his ship, another pilot rushes up to him and grabs
his arm.
BIGGS
Luke! I don't believe it! How'd you
get here... are you going out with
us?!
LUKE
Biggs! Of course, I'll be up there
with you! Listen, have I got some
stories to tell...
Red Leader, a rugged handsome man in his forties, comes up
behind Luke and Biggs. He has the confident smile of a born
leader.
RED LEADER
Are you... Luke Skywalker? Have you
been checked out on the Incom T-sixty-
five?
BIGGS
Sir, Luke is the best bushpilot in
the outer rim territories.
Red Leader pats Luke on the back as they stop in front of
his fighter.
RED LEADER
I met your father once when I was
just a boy, he was a great pilot.
You'll do all right. If you've got
half of your father's skill, you'll
do better than all right.
LUKE
Thank you, sir. I'll try.
Red Leader hurries to his own ship.
BIGGS
I've got to get aboard. Listen, you'll
tell me your stories when we come
back. All right?
LUKE
I told you I'd make it someday, Biggs.
BIGGS
(going off)
You did, all right. It's going to be
like old times, Luke. We're a couple
of shooting stars that'll never be
stopped!
Luke laughs and shakes his head in agreement. He heads for
his ship.
As Luke begins to climb up the ladder into his sleek, deadly
spaceship, the crew chief, who is working on the craft, points
to little Artoo, who is being hoisted into a socket on the
back of the fighter.
CHIEF
This R2 unit of your seems a bit
beat up. Do you want a new one?
LUKE
Not on your life! That little droid
and I have been through a lot
together.
(to Artoo)
You okay, Artoo?
The crewmen lower Artoo-Detoo into the craft. Now a part of
the exterior shell of the starship, the little droid beeps
that he is fine.
Luke climbs up into the cockpit of his fighter and puts an
his helmet. Threepio looks on from the floor of the massive
hangar as the crewmen secure his little electronic partner
into Luke's X-wing. It's an emotional-filled moment as Artoo
beeps good-bye.
CHIEF
Okay, easy she goes!
THREEPIO
Hang on tight,Artoo, you've got to
come back.
Artoo beeps in agreement.
THREEPIO
You wouldn't want my life to get
boring, would you?
Artoo whistles his reply.
All final preparations are made for the approaching battle.
The hangar is buzzing with the last minute activity as the
pilots and crewmen alike make their final adjustments. The
hum of activity is occasionally trespassed by the distorted
voice of the loudspeaker issuing commands. Coupling hoses
are disconnected from the ships as they are fueled. Cockpit
shields roll smoothly into place over each pilot. A signalman,
holding red guiding lights, directs the ships. Luke, a trace
of a smile gracing his lips, peers about through his goggles.
BEN'S VOICE
Luke, the Force will be with you.
Luke is confused at the voice and taps his headphones.
EXT. MASSASSI OUTPOST - JUNGLE
All that can be seen of the fortress is a lone guard standing
on a small pedestal jutting out above the dense jungle. The
muted gruesome crying sounds that naturally permeate this
eerie purgatory are overwhelmed by the thundering din of ion
rockets as four silver starships catapult from the foliage
in a tight formation and disappears into the morning cloud
cover.
INT. MASSASSI OUTPOST - WAR ROOM
The princess, Threepio, and a field commander sit quietly
before the giant display showing the planet Yavin and its
four moons. The red dot that represents the Death Star moves
ever closer to the system. A series of green dots appear
around the fourth moon. A din of indistinct chatter fills
the war room.
MASSASSI INTERCOM VOICE
Stand-by alert. Death Star
approaching. Estimated time to firing
range, fifteen minutes.
EXT. SPACE
The Death Star slowly moves behind the massive yellow surface
of Yavin in the foreground, as many X-wing fighters flying
in formation zoom toward us and out of the frame.
EXT. SPACE - ANOTHER ANGLE
Light from a distant sun creates an eerie atmospheric glow
around a huge planet, Yavin. Rebel fighters flying in
formation settle ominously in the foreground and very slowly
pull away.
INT. RED LEADER STARSHIP - COCKPIT
Red Leader lowers his visor and adjusts his gun sights,
looking to each side at his wing men.
RED LEADER
All wings report in.
INT. ANOTHER COCKPIT
One of the Rebel fighters checks in through his mike.
RED TEN
Red Ten standing by.
INT. BIGGS' COCKPIT
Biggs checks his fighter's controls, alert and ready for
combat.
RED SEVEN
(over Biggs' headset)
Red Seven standing by.
BIGGS
Red Three standing by.
INT. PORKINS' COCKPIT
PORKINS
Red Six standing by.
RED NINE
(over headset)
Red Nine standing by.
INT. WEDGE'S FIGHTER - COCKPIT
WEDGE
Red Two standing by.
INT. LUKE'S X-WING FIGHTER - COCKPIT
RED ELEVEN
(over headset)
Red Eleven standing by.
LUKE
Red Five standing by.
EXT. LUKE'S X-WING FIGHTER
Artoo-Detoo, in position outside of the fighter, turns his
head from side to side and makes beeping sounds.
INT. RED LEADER'S FIGHTER - COCKPIT
RED LEADER
Lock S-foils in attack position.
EXT. SPACE
The group of X-wing fighters move in formation toward the
Death Star, unfolding the wings and locking them in the "X"
position.
INT. BIGGS' COCKPIT
READ LEADER
(over headset)
We're passing through their magnetic
field.
INT. RED LEADER'S COCKPIT
RED LEADER
Hold tight!
INT. LUKE'S X-WING FIGHTER - COCKPIT
Luke adjusts his controls as he concentrates on the
approaching Death Star. The ship begins to be buffeted
slightly.
RED LEADER
(over headset)
Switch your deflectors on.
INT. ANOTHER COCKPIT
RED LEADER
(over headset)
Double front!
EXT. SPACE
The fighters, now X-shaped darts, move in formation. The
Death Star now appears to be a small moon growing rapidly in
size as the Rebel fighters approach. Complex patterns on the
metallic surface begin to become visible. A large dish antenna
is built into the surface on one side.
INT. WEDGE'S COCKPIT
Wedge is amazed and slightly frightened at the awesome
spectacle.
WEDGE
Look at the size of that thing!
RED LEADER
(over headset)
Cut the chatter, Red Two.
INT. RED LEADER'S COCKPIT
RED LEADER
Accelerate to attack speed. This is
it, boys!
EXT. SPACE
As the fighters move closer to the Death Star, the awesome
size of the gargantuan Imperial fortress is revealed. Half
of the deadly space station is in shadow and this area
sparkles with thousands of small lights running in thin lines
and occasionally grouped in large clusters; somewhat like a
city at night as seen from a weather satellite.
INT. GOLD LEADER'S COCKPIT
GOLD LEADER
Red Leader, this is Gold Leader.
RED LEADER
(over headset)
I copy, Gold Leader.
GOLD LEADER
We're starting for the target shaft
now.
INT. RED LEADER'S COCKPIT
Red Leader looks around at his wingmen; the Death Star looming
in from behind. Two Y-wing fighters bob back and forth in
the background. He moves his computer targeting device into
position.
RED LEADER
We're in position. I'm going to cut
across the axis and try and draw
their fire.
EXT. SPACE
Two squads of Rebel fighters peel off. The X-wings dive
towards the Death Star surface. A thousand lights glow across
the dark grey expanse of the huge station.
INT. DEATH STAR
Alarm sirens scream as soldiers scramble to large turbo-
powered laser gun emplacements. Electronic drivers rotate
the huge guns into position as crew adjust their targeting
devices.
EXT. SPACE AROUND THE DEATH STAR
Laserbolts streak through the star-filled night. The Rebel X-
wing fighters move in toward the Imperial base, as the Death
Star aims its massive laser guns at the Rebel forces and
fires.
INT. MASSASSI OUTPOST - WAR ROOM
Princess Leia listens to the battle over the intercom.
Threepio is at her side.
WEDGE
(over war room speaker
system)
Heavy fire, boss! Twenty-degrees.
RED LEADER
(over speaker)
I see it. Stay low.
EXT. SPACE
An X-wing zooms across the surface of the Death Star.
INT. DEATH STAR
Technical crews scurry here and there loading last-minute
armaments and unlocking power cables.
INT. WEDGE'S COCKPIT
Wedge maneuvers his fighter toward the menacing Death Star.
EXT. SPACE
X-wings continue in their attack course on the Death Star.
INT. LUKE'S X-WING FIGHTER - COCKPIT
Luke nosedives radically, starting his attack on the monstrous
fortress. The Death Star surface streaks past the cockpit
window.
LUKE
This is Red Five; I'm going in!
EXT. SPACE
Luke's X-wing races toward the Death Star. Laserbolts streak
from Luke's weapons, creating a huge fireball explosion on
the dim surface.
INT. LUKE'S X-WING FIGHTER - COCKPIT
Terror crosses Luke's face as he realizes he won't be able
to pull out in time to avoid the fireball.
BIGGS
(over headset)
Luke, pull up!
EXT. SURFACE OF DEATH STAR
Luke's ship emerges from the fireball, with the leading edges
of his wings slightly scorched.
INT. BIGGS' COCKPIT
BIGGS
Are you all right?
INT. LUKE'S X-WING FIGHTER - COCKPIT
Luke adjusts his controls and breathes a sigh of relief.
Flak bursts outside the cockpit window.
LUKE
I got a little cooked, but I'm okay.
EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR
Rebel fighters continue to strafe the Death Star's surface
with laserbolts.
INT. DEATH STAR
Walls buckle and cave in. Troops and equipment are blown in
all directions. Stormtroopers stagger out of the rubble.
Standing in the middle of the chaos, a vision of calm and
foreboding, is Darth Vader. One of his Astro-Officers rushes
up to him.
ASTRO-OFFICER
We count thirty Rebel ships, Lord
Vader. But they're so small they're
evading our turbo-lasers!
VADER
We'll have to destroy them ship to
ship. Get the crews to their fighters.
INT. DEATH STAR
Smoke belches from the giant laser guns as they wind up their
turbine generators to create sufficient power. The crew rushes
about preparing for another blast. Even the troopers head
gear is not adequate to protect them from the overwhelming
noise of the monstrous weapon. One troopers bangs his helmet
with his hand in an attempt to stop the ringing.
INT. READ LEADER'S X-WING FIGHTER - COCKPIT - TRAVELING
Red Leader flies through a heavy hail of flak.
RED LEADER
Luke, let me know when you're going
in.
INT. LUKE'S X-WING - COCKPIT - TRAVELING
The Red Leader's X-wing flies past Luke as he puts his nose
down and starts his attack dive.
LUKE
I'm on my way in now...
RED LEADER
Watch yourself! There's a lot of
fire coming from the right side of
that deflection tower.
LUKE
I'm on it.
EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR
Luke flings his X-wing into a twisting dive across the horizon
and down onto the dim grey surface.
EXT. LUKE'S X-WING TRAVELING
A shot hurls from Luke's guns. Laserbolts streak toward the
onrushing Death Star surface. Several small radar emplacements
erupt in flame. Laserfire erupts from a protruding tower on
the surface.
INT. LUKE'S X-WING - COCKPIT - TRAVELING
The blurry Death Star surface races past the cockpit window
as a big smile sweeps across Luke's face at the success of
his run. Flak thunders on all sides of him.
EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR
The Death Star superstructure races past Luke as he maneuvers
his craft through a wall of laserfire and peels away from
the surface towards the heavens.
INT. DEATH STAR
The thunder and smoke of the big guns reverberate throughout
the massive structure. Many soldiers rush about in the smoke
and chaos, silhouetted by the almost continual flash of
explosions.
INT. BIGGS' COCKPIT - TRAVELING
Biggs dives through a forest of radar domes, antennae, and
gun towers as he shoots low across the Death Star surface. A
dense barrage of laserfire streaks by on all sides.
INT. DEATH STAR
Imperial star pilots dash in unison to a line of small
auxiliary hatches that lead to Imperial TIE fighters.
INT. MASSASSI OUTPOST - WAR ROOM
Princess Leia, surrounded by her generals and aides, paces
nervously before a lighted computer table. On all sides
technicians work in front of many lighted glass walls. Dodonna
watches quietly from one corner. One of the officers working
over a screen speaks into his headset.
CONTROL OFFICER
Squad leaders, we've picked up a new
group of signals. Enemy fighters
coming your way.
INT. LUKE'S X-WING - COCKPIT - TRAVELING
Luke looks around to see if he can spot the approaching
Imperial fighters.
LUKE
My scope's negative. I don't see
anything.
INT. RED LEADER'S X-WING - COCKPIT - TRAVELING
The Death Star's surface sweeps past as Red Leader searches
the sky for the Imperial fighters. Flak pounds at his ship.
RED LEADER
Keep up your visual scanning. With
all this jamming, they'll be on top
of you before your scope can pick
them up.
EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR
Silhouetted against the rim lights of the Death Star horizon,
four ferocious Imperial TIE ships dive on the Rebel fighters.
Two of the TIE fighters peel off and drop out of frame. Pan
with the remaining two TIE ships.
INT. BIGGS' COCKPIT - TRAVELING
Biggs panics when he discovers a TIE ship on his tail. The
horizon in the background twists around as he peels off,
hoping to lose the Imperial fighter.
INT. RED LEADER'S COCKPIT
RED LEADER
Biggs! You've picked one up... watch
it!
BIGGS
I can't see it! Where is he?!
EXT. SPACE AROUND THE DEATH STAR
Biggs zooms off the surface and into space, closely followed
by an Imperial TIE fighter. The TIE ship fires several
laserbolts at Biggs, but misses.
INT. BIGGS' COCKPIT - TRAVELING
Biggs see the TIE ship behind him and swings around, trying
to avoid him.
BIGGS
He's on me tight, I can't shake him...
I can't shake him.
EXT. SPACE AROUND THE DEATH STAR
Biggs, flying at high altitude, peels off and dives toward
the Death Star surface, but he is unable to lose the TIE
fighter, who sticks close to his tail.
INT. X-WING FIGHTER - COCKPIT - TRAVELING
Luke is flying upside down. He rotates his ship around to
normal attitude as he comes out of his dive.
LUKE
Hang on, Biggs, I'm coming in.
EXT. SPACE AROUND THE DEATH STAR
Biggs and the tailing TIE ship dive for the surface, now
followed by a fast-gaining Luke. After Biggs dives out of
sight, Luke chases the Imperial fighter.
EXT. SURFACE AROUND THE DEATH STAR
In the foreground, the Imperial fighter races across the
Death Star's surface, closely followed by Luke in the
background.
INT. LUKE'S X-WING FIGHTER - COCKPIT - TRAVELING
There is a shot from Luke's X-wing of the TIE ship exploding
in a mass of flames.
LUKE
Got him!
INT. DEATH STAR
Darth Vader strides purposefully down a Death Star corridor,
flanked by Imperial stormtroopers.
VADER
Several fighters have broken off
from the main group. Come with me!
INT. MASSASSI OUTPOST - WAR ROOM
A concerned Princess Leia, Threepio, Dodonna, and other
officers of the Rebellion stand around the huge round readout
screen, listening to the ship-to-ship communication on the
room's loudspeaker.
BIGGS
(over speaker)
Pull in! Luke... pull in!
WEDGE
(over speaker)
Watch your back, Luke!
INT. LUKE'S X-WING FIGHTER - COCKPIT
WEDGE
(over headset)
Watch your back! Fighter's above
you, coming in!
EXT. SPACE
Luke's ship soars away from the Death Star's surface as he
spots the tailing TIE fighter.
INT. TIE FIGHTER'S COCKPIT
The TIE pilot takes aim at Luke's X-wing.
EXT. SPACE
The Imperial TIE fighter pilot scores a hit on Luke's ship.
Fire breaks out on the right side of the X-wing.
INT. LUKE'S X-WING FIGHTER - COCKPIT
Luke looks out of his cockpit at the flames on his ship.
LUKE
I'm hit, but not bad.
EXT. LUKE'S X-WING FIGHTER
Smoke pours out from behind Artoo-Detoo.
LUKE'S VOICE
Artoo, see what you can do with it.
Hang on back there.
Green laserfire moves past the beeping little robot as his
head turns.
INT. LUKE'S X-WING - COCKPIT
Luke nervously works his controls.
RED LEADER
(over headset)
Red Six...
INT. MASSASSI OUTPOST - WAR ROOM
In the war room, Leia stands frozen as she listens and worries
about Luke.
RED LEADER
(over speaker)
Can you see Red Five?
RED TEN
(over speaker)
There's a heavy fire zone on this
side. Red Five, where are you?
INT. LUKE'S X-WING - COCKPIT
Luke spots the TIE fighter behind him and soars away from
the Death Star surface.
LUKE
I can't shake him!
EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR
Luke's ship soars closer to the surface of the Death Star,
an Imperial TIE fighter closing in on him in hot pursuit.
INT. WEDGE'S COCKPIT
The Death Star whips below Wedge.
WEDGE
I'm on him, Luke!
INT. LUKE'S X-WING - COCKPIT
WEDGE
(over headset)
Hold on!
EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR
Wedge dives across the horizon toward Luke and the TIE
fighter.
INT. WEDGE'S COCKPIT
Wedge moves his X-wing in rapidly.
INT. LUKE'S X-WING - COCKPIT
Luke reacts frantically.
LUKE
Blast it! Wedge where are you?
INT. TIE FIGHTER - COCKPIT
The fighter pilot watches Wedge's X-wing approach. Another X-
wing joins him, and both unleash a volley of laserfire on
the Imperial fighter.
EXT. SPACE
The TIE fighter explodes, filling the screen with white light.
Luke's ship can be seen far in the distance.
INT. LUKE'S X-WING - COCKPIT
Luke looks about in relief.
LUKE
Thanks, Wedge.
INT. MASSASSI OUTPOST - WAR ROOM
Leia, Threepio, Dodonna and other Rebel officers are listening
to the Rebel Fighter's radio transmissions over the war room
intercom.
BIGGS
(over speaker)
Good shooting, Wedge!
GOLD LEADER
(over speaker)
Red Leader...
INT. GOLD LEADER'S Y-WING - COCKPIT
Gold Leader peels off and starts toward the long trenches at
the Death Star surface pole.
GOLD LEADER
This is Gold Leader. We're starting
out attack run.
EXT. SPACE AROUND THE DEATH STAR
Three Y-wing fighters of the Gold group dive out of the stars
toward the Death Star surface.
INT. MASSASSI OUTPOST - WAR ROOM
Leia and the others are grouped around the screen, as
technicians move about attending to their duties.
RED LEADER
(over speaker)
I copy, Gold Leader. Move into
position.
EXT. SPACE AROUND THE DEATH STAR
Three Imperial TIE ships in precise formation dive toward
the Death Star surface.
INT. DARTH VADER'S COCKPIT
Darth Vader calmly adjusts his control stick as the stars
whip past in the window above his head.
VADER
Stay in attack formation!
INT. MASSASSI OUTPOST - WAR ROOM
Technicians are seated at the computer readout table.
GOLD LEADER
(over speaker)
The exhaust post is...
INT. GOLD LEADER'S Y-WING - COCKPIT
GOLD LEADER
...marked and locked in!
EXT. SPACE AROUND THE DEATH STAR
Gold Leader approaches the surface and pulls out to skim the
surface of the huge station. The ship moves into a deep
trench, firing laserbolts. The surface streaks past as
laserfire is returned by the Death Star.
INT. GOLD FIVE'S Y-WING - COCKPIT - TRAVELING
Gold Five is a pilot in his early fifties with a very battered
helmet that looks like it's been through many battles. He
looks around to see if enemy ships are near. His fighter is
buffeted by Imperial flak.
INT. GOLD LEADER'S Y-WING - COCKPIT
Gold Leader races down the enormous trench that leads to the
exhaust port. Laserbolts blast toward him in increasing
numbers, occasionally exploding near the ship causing it to
bounce about.
GOLD LEADER
Switch power to front deflector
screens.
EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR
Three Y-wing skim the Death Star surface deep in the trench,
as laserbolts streak past on all sides.
EXT. DEATH STAR SURFACE - GUN EMPLACEMENTS
An exterior surface gun blazes away at the oncoming Rebel
fighters.
INT. GOLD LEADER'S Y-WING - COCKPIT
GOLD LEADER
How many guns do you think, Gold
Five.
INT. MASSASSI OUTPOST - WAR ROOM
GOLD FIVE
(over speaker)
I'd say about twenty guns. Some on
the surface, some on the towers.
Leia, Threepio, and the technicians view the projected target
screen, as red and blue target lights glow. The red target
near the center blinks on and off.
MASSASSI INTERCOM VOICE
(over speaker)
Death Star will be in range in five
minutes.
EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR
The three Y-wing fighters race toward camera and zoom overhead
through a hail of laserfire.
INT. GOLD LEADER'S Y-WING - COCKPIT
Gold Leader pulls his computer targeting device down in front
of his eye. Laserbolts continue to batter the Rebel craft.
GOLD LEADER
Switching to targeting computer.
INT. GOLD TWO'S Y-WING - COCKPIT
Gold Two, a younger pilot about Luke's age, pulls down his
targeting eye viewer and adjusts it. His ship shudders under
intense laser barrage.
GOLD TWO
Computer's locked. Getting a signal.
As the fighters begin to approach the target area, suddenly
all the laserfire stops. An eerie clam clings over the trench
as the surface whips past in a blur.
GOLD TWO
The guns... they've stopped!
EXT. GOLD FIVE'S COCKPIT
Gold Five looks behind him.
GOLD FIVE
Stabilize your read deflectors. Watch
for enemy fighters.
INT. GOLD LEADER'S Y-WING - COCKPIT
GOLD LEADER
They've coming in! Three marks at
two ten.
EXT. SPACE AROUND THE DEATH STAR
Three Imperial TIE ships, Darth Vader in the center flanked
by two wingmen, dive in precise formation almost vertically
toward the Death Star surface.
INT. DARTH VADER'S COCKPIT
Darth Vader calmly adjusts his control stick as the stars
zoom by.
VADER
I'll take them myself! Cover me!
WINGMAN'S VOICE
(over speaker)
Yes, sir.
EXT. SPACE AROUND THE DEATH STAR
Three TIE fighters zoom across the surface of the Death Star.
INT. DARTH VADER'S COCKPIT
Vader lines up Gold Two in his targeting computer. Vader's
hands grip the control stick as he presses the button.
INT. GOLD LEADER'S Y-WING - COCKPIT
The cockpit explodes around Gold Two. His head falls forward.
EXT. SPACE AROUND THE DEATH STAR
As Gold Two's ship explodes, debris is flung out into space.
INT. GOLD LEADER'S Y-WING - COCKPIT
Gold Leader looks over his shoulder at the scene.
EXT. DEATH STAR TRENCH
The three TIE fighters race along in the trench in a tight
formation.
INT. GOLD LEADER'S Y-WING - COCKPIT
Gold Leader panics.
GOLD LEADER
(into mike)
I can't maneuver!
INT. GOLD FIVE'S Y-WING - COCKPIT
Gold Five, the old veteran, trys to calm Gold Leader.
GOLD FIVE
Stay on target.
INT. GOLD LEADER'S Y-WING - COCKPIT
The Death Star races by outside the cockpit window as he
adjusts his targeting device.
GOLD LEADER
We're too close.
INT. GOLD FIVE'S Y-WING - COCKPIT
The older pilot remains calm.
GOLD FIVE
Stay on target!
INT. GOLD LEADER'S Y-WING - COCKPIT
Now he's really panicked.
GOLD LEADER
Loosen up!
INT. DARTH VADER'S COCKPIT
Vader calmly adjusts his targeting computer and pushes the
fire button.
INT. GOLD LEADER'S Y-WING - COCKPIT
Gold Leader's ship is hit by Vader's laser.
EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR
Gold Leader explodes in a ball of flames, throwing debris in
all directions.
INT. GOLD FIVE'S Y-WING - COCKPIT
Gold Five moves in on the exhaust port.
GOLD FIVE
Gold Five to Red Leader...
INT. LUKE'S X-WING FIGHTER - COCKPIT
Luke looks over his shoulder at the action outside of his
cockpit.
GOLD FIVE
(over headset)
Lost Tiree, lost Dutch.
INT. RED LEADER'S COCKPIT
RED LEADER
I copy, Gold Five.
INT. GOLD FIVE'S Y-WING - COCKPIT
GOLD FIVE
They came from behind...
EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR
One of the engines explodes on Gold Five's Y-wing fighter,
blazing out of control. He dives past the horizon toward the
Death Star's surface, passing a TIE fighter during his
descent. Gold Five, a veteran of countless campaigns, spins
toward his death.
INT. LUKE'S X-WING FIGHTER - COCKPIT
Luke looks nervously about him at the explosive battle.
INT. DEATH STAR - CONTROL ROOM
Grant Moff Tarkin and a Chief Officer stand in the Death
Star's control room.
OFFICER
We've analyzed their attack, sir,
and there is a danger. Should I have
your ship standing by?
TARKIN
Evacuate? In out moment of triumph?
I think you overestimate their
chances!
Tarkin turns to the computer readout screen. Flames move
around the green disk at the center of the screen, as numbers
read across the bottom.
VOICE
(over speaker)
Rebel base, three minutes and closing.
INT. READ LEADER'S COCKPIT
Red Leader looks over at his wingmen.
RED LEADER
Red Group, this is Red Leader.
INT. MASSASSI OUTPOST - WAR ROOM
Dodonna moves to the intercom as he fiddles with the computer
keys.
RED LEADER
(over speaker)
Rendezvous at mark six point one.
WEDGE
(over speaker)
This is Red Two. Flying toward you.
BIGGS
(over speaker)
Red Three, standing by.
INT. RED LEADER'S COCKPIT
DODONNA
(over headset)
Red Leader, this is Base One. Keep
half your group out of range for the
next run.
INT. LUKE'S X-WING FIGHTER - COCKPIT
RED LEADER'S VOICE
(over headset)
Copy, Base One. Luke, take Red Two
and Three. Hold up here and wait for
my signal... to start your run.
Luke nods his head.
EXT. SPACE AROUND THE DEATH STAR
The X-wing fighters of Luke, Biggs, and Wedge fly in formation
high above the Death Star's surface.
INT. LUKE'S X-WING FIGHTER - COCKPIT
Luke peers out from his cockpit.
EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR
Two X-wings move across the surface of the Death Star. Red
Leader's X-wing drops down to the surface leading to the
exhaust port.
INT. RED LEADER'S COCKPIT
Red Leader looks around to watch for the TIE fighters. He
begins to perspire.
RED LEADER
This is it!
EXT. SPACE
Red Leader roams down the trench of the Death Star as lasers
streak across the black heavens.
EXT. DEATH STAR SURFACE - GUN EMPLACEMENTS
A huge remote-control laser cannon fires at the approaching
Rebel fighters.
EXT. DEATH STAR TRENCH
The Rebel fighters evade the Imperial laser blasts.
INT. RED TEN'S COCKPIT
Red Ten looks around for the Imperial fighters.
RED TEN
We should be able to see it by now.
EXT. DEATH STAR TRENCH
From the cockpits of the Rebel pilots, the surface of the
Death Star streaks by, with Imperial laserfire shooting toward
them.
INT. RED LEADER'S COCKPIT
RED LEADER
Keep your eyes open for those
fighters!
INT. RED TEN'S COCKPIT
RED TEN
There's too much interference!
EXT. SPACE - DEATH STAR TRENCH
Three X-wing fighters move in formation down the Death Star
trench.
RED TEN'S VOICE
Red Five, can you see them from where
you are?
INT. LUKE'S X-WING FIGHTER - COCKPIT
Luke looks down at the Death Star surface below.
LUKE
No sign of any... wait!
INT. RED TEN'S COCKPIT
Red Ten looks up and sees the Imperial fighters.
LUKE
(over headset)
Coming in point three five.
RED TEN
I see them.
EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR
Three TIE fighters, Vader flanked by two wingmen, dive in a
tight formation. The sun reflects off their dominate solar
fins as they loop toward the Death Star's surface.
INT. RED LEADER'S COCKPIT
Red Leader pulls his targeting device in front of his eyes
and makes several adjustments.
RED LEADER
I'm in range.
EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR
Red Leader's X-wing moves up the Death Star trench.
INT. RED LEADER'S COCKPIT
RED LEADER
Target's coming up!
Red Leader looks at his computer target readout screen. He
then looks into his targeting device.
RED LEADER
Just hold them off for a few seconds.
INT. DARTH VADER'S COCKPIT
Vader adjusts his control lever and dives on the X-wing
fighters.
VADER
Close up formation.
EXT. DEATH STAR TRENCH
The three TIE fighters move in formation across the Death
Star surface.
INT. RED LEADER'S COCKPIT
Red Leader lines up his target on the targeting device cross
hairs.
EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR
Vader and his wingmen zoom down the trench.
INT. DARTH VADER'S COCKPIT
Vader rapidly approaches the two X-wings of Red Ten and Red
Twelve. Vader's laser cannon flashes below the view of the
front porthole. the X-wings show in the center of Vader's
computer screen.
EXT. SPACE
Red Twelve's X-wing fighter is hit by Vader's laserfire, and
it explodes into flames against the trench.
INT. RED TEN'S COCKPIT
Red Ten works at his controls furiously, trying to avoid
Vader's fighter behind him.
RED TEN: You'd better let her loose.
INT. RED LEADER'S COCKPIT
Red Leader is concentrating on his targeting device.
RED LEADER
Almost there!
INT. RED TEN'S COCKPIT.
Red Ten panics.
RED TEN
I can't hold them!
EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR
Vader and his wingmen whip through the trench in pursuit of
the Rebel fighters.
INT. DARTH VADER'S COCKPIT
Vader cooly pushes the fire button on his control stick.
INT. RED TEN'S COCKPIT
Darth Vader's well-aimed laserfire proves to be unavoidable,
and strikes Red Ten's ship. Red Ten screams in anguish and
pain.
EXT. SPACE AROUND THE DEATH STAR
Red Ten's ship explodes and bursts into flames.
INT. RED LEADER'S COCKPIT
Grimly, Red Leader takes careful aim and watches his computer
targeting device, which shows the target lined up in the
cross hairs, and fires.
INT. RED LEADER'S COCKPIT
RED LEADER
It's away!
INT. DEATH STAR
An armed Imperial stormtrooper is knocked to the floor from
the attack explosion. Other troopers scurrying about the
corridors are knocked against the wall and lose their balance.
INT. MASSASSI OUTPOST - WAR ROOM
Leia and the others stare at the computer screen.
RED NINE'S VOICE
(over speaker)
It's a hit!
RED LEADER
(over speaker)
Negative.
INT. RED LEADER'S COCKPIT
Red Leader looks back at the receding Death Star. Tiny
explosions are visible in the distance.
RED LEADER
Negative! It didn't go in. It just
impacted on the surface.
EXT. SPACE AROUND THE DEATH STAR - TIE FIGHTER
Darth Vader peels off in pursuit as Red Leader's X-wing passes
the Death Star horizon.
INT. DARTH VADER'S COCKPIT
Vader swings his ship around for the next kill.
INT. RED LEADER'S COCKPIT
LUKE
(over headset)
Red Leader, we're right above you.
Turn to point...
INT. LUKE'S X-WING FIGHTER - COCKPIT
Luke tries to spot Red Leader. He looks down at the Death
Star surface.
LUKE
...oh-five; we'll cover for you.
RED LEADER
(over headset)
Stay there...
INT. RED LEADER'S COCKPIT
A wary Red Leader looks about nervously.
RED LEADER
...I just lost my starboard engine.
INT. LUKE'S X-WING FIGHTER - COCKPIT
Luke looks excitedly toward Red Leader's X-wing.
RED LEADER
(over headset)
Get set to make your attack run.
INT. DARTH VADER'S COCKPIT
Vader's gloved hands make contact with the control sticks,
and he presses their firing buttons.
INT. RED LEADER'S COCKPIT
Red Leader fights to gain control of his ship.
EXT. SPACE AROUND THE DEATH STAR
Laserbolts are flung from Vader's TIE fighter, connecting
with Red Leader's Rebel X-wing fighter. Red Leader buys it,
creating a tremendous explosion far below. He screams and is
destroyed.
INT. LUKE'S X-WING FIGHTER - COCKPIT
Luke looks out the window of his X-wing at the explosion far
below. For the first time, he feels the helplessness of his
situation.
INT. DEATH STAR
Grand Moff Tarkin casts a sinister eye at the computer screen.
DEATH STAR INTERCOM VOICE
Rebel base, one minute and closing.
INT. MASSASSI OUTPOST - WAR ROOM
Dodonna and Princess Leia, with Threepio beside them, listen
intently to the talk between the pilots. The room is grim
after Red Leader's death. Princess Leia nervously paces the
room.
LUKE
(over speaker)
Biggs, Wedge, let's close it up.
We're going in. We're going in full
throttle.
INT. WEDGE'S COCKPIT
The horizon twists as Wedge begins to pull out.
WEDGE
Right with you, boss.
EXT. SPACE AROUND THE DEATH STAR
The two X-wings peel off against a background of stars and
dive toward the Death Star.
INT. BIGGS' COCKPIT
BIGGS
Luke, at that speed will you be able
to pull out in time?
INT. LUKE'S X-WING FIGHTER - COCKPIT
LUKE
It'll be just like Beggar's Canyon
back home.
EXT. SPACE AROUND THE DEATH STAR
The three X-wings move in, unleashing a barrage of laserfire.
Laserbolts are returned from the Death Star.
INT. BIGGS' COCKPIT
Luke's lifelong friend struggles with his controls.
BIGGS
We'll stay back far enough to cover
you.
INT. LUKE'S COCKPIT
Flak and laserbolts flash outside Luke's cockpit window.
WEDGE
(over headset)
My scope shows the tower, but I can't
see the exhaust port! Are you sure
the computer can hit it?
EXT. DEATH STAR - GUN EMPLACEMENTS
The Death Star laser cannon slowly rotates as it shoots
laserbolts.
INT. LUKE'S X-WING FIGHTER - COCKPIT
Luke looks around for the Imperial TIE fighters. He thinks
for a moment and then moves his targeting device into
position.
LUKE
Watch yourself! Increase speed full
throttle!
INT. WEDGE'S COCKPIT
Wedge looks excitedly about for any sign of the TIE fighters.
WEDGE
What about the tower?
INT. LUKE'S X-WING FIGHTER - COCKPIT
LUKE
You worry about those fighters! I'll
worry about the tower!
EXT. DEATH STAR SURFACE
Luke's X-wing streaks through the trench, firing lasers.
INT. LUKE'S X-WING FIGHTER - COCKPIT
Luke breaks into a nervous sweat as the laserfire is returned,
knicking one of his wings close to the engine.
LUKE
(to Artoo)
Artoo... that, that stabilizer's
broken loose again! See if you can't
lock it down!
EXT. LUKE'S X-WING FIGHTER
Artoo works to repair the damages. The canyon wall rushes by
in the background, making his delicate task seem even more
precarious.
EXT. DEATH STAR
Two laser cannons are firing on the Rebel fighters.
INT. WEDGE'S COCKPIT
Wedge looks up and sees the TIE ships.
INT. LUKE'S X-WING FIGHTER - COCKPIT
Luke's targeting device marks off the distance to the target.
EXT. SPACE AROUND THE DEATH STAR
Vader and his wingmen zoom closer.
INT. DARTH VADER'S COCKPIT
Vader adjusts his controls and fires laserbolts at two X-
wings flying down the trench. He scores a direct hit on Wedge.
INT. MASSASSI OUTPOST - WAR ROOM
Leia and the others are grouped around the computer board.
WEDGE
(over speaker)
I'm hit! I can't stay with you.
LUKE
(over speaker)
Get clear, Wedge.
INT. LUKE'S X-WING FIGHTER - COCKPIT
LUKE
You can't do any more good back there!
INT. WEDGE'S COCKPIT
WEDGE
Sorry!
EXT. SPACE AROUND THE DEATH STAR
Wedge pulls his crippled X-wing back away from the battle.
INT. DARTH VADER'S COCKPIT
Vader watches the escape but issues a command to his wingmen.
VADER
Let him go! Stay on the leader!
EXT. SPACE AROUND THE DEATH STAR
Luke's X-wing speeds down the trench; the three TIE fighters,
still in perfect unbroken formation, tail close behind.
INT. BIGGS' COCKPIT
Biggs looks around at the TIE fighters. He is worried.
BIGGS
Hurry, Luke, they're coming in much
faster this time. I can't hold them!
EXT. SPACE AROUND THE DEATH STAR
The three TIE fighters move ever closer, closing in on Luke
and Biggs.
INT. LUKE'S X-WING FIGHTER - COCKPIT
Luke looks back anxiously at little Artoo.
LUKE
Artoo, try and increase the power!
EXT. LUKE'S X-WING FIGHTER
Ignoring the bumpy ride, flak, and lasers, a beeping Artoo-
Detoo struggles to increase the power, his dome turning from
side to side.
EXT. SPACE AROUND THE DEATH STAR
Stealthily, the TIE formation creeps closer.
INT. DARTH VADER'S COCKPIT
Vader adjusts his control stick.
INT. BIGGS' COCKPIT
Biggs looks around at the TIE fighters.
INT. LUKE'S X-WING FIGHTER
Luke looks into his targeting device. He moves it away for a
moment and ponders its use. He looks back into the computer
targeter.
BIGGS
(over headset)
Hurry up, Luke!
EXT. SPACE AROUND THE DEATH STAR
Vader and his wingmen race through the Death Star trench.
Biggs moves in to cover for Luke, but Vader gains on him.
INT. BIGGS' COCKPIT
Biggs sees the TIE fighter aiming at him.
BIGGS
Wait!
INT. DARTH VADER'S COCKPIT
Vader squeezes the fire button on his controls.
INT. BIGGS' COCKPIT
Biggs' cockpit explodes around him, lighting him in red.
EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR
Biggs' ship bursts into a million flaming bits and scatters
across the surface.
INT. MASSASSI OUTPOST - WAR ROOM
Leia and the others stare at the computer board.
INT. LUKE'S X-WING COCKPIT
Luke is stunned by Biggs' death. His eyes are watering, but
his anger is also growing.
INT. DEATH STAR - CONTROL ROOM
Grand Moff Tarkin watches the projected target screen with
satisfaction.
DEATH STAR INTERCOM VOICE
Rebel base, thirty seconds and
closing.
INT. DARTH VADER'S COCKPIT
Vader takes aim on Luke and talks to the wingmen.
VADER
I'm on the leader.
EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR - LUKE'S SHIP
Luke's ship streaks through the trench of the Death Star.
INT. MASSASSI OUTPOST - WAR ROOM
Princess Leia returns her general's worried and doubtful
glances with solid, grim determination. Threepio seems
nervous.
THREEPIO
Hang on, Artoo!
INT. LUKE'S X-WING - COCKPIT
Luke concentrates on his targeting device.
EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR
Three TIE fighters charge away down the trench toward Luke.
INT. DARTH VADER'S COCKPIT
Vader's finger's curls around the control stick.
INT. LUKE'S X-WING - COCKPIT
Luke adjusts the lens of his targeting device.
EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR
Luke's ship charges down the trench.
INT. LUKE'S X-WING - COCKPIT
Luke lines up the yellow cross-hair lines of the targeting
device's screen. He looks into the targeting device, then
starts at a voice he hears.
BEN'S VOICE
Use the Force, Luke.
EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR
The Death Star trench zooms by.
INT. LUKE'S X-WING - COCKPIT
Luke looks up, then starts to look back into the targeting
device. He has second thoughts.
BEN'S VOICE
Let go, Luke.
A grim determination sweeps across Luke's face as he closes
his eyes and starts to mumble Ben's training to himself.
EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR
Luke's fighter streaks through the trench.
INT. DARTH VADER'S COCKPIT
VADER
The Force is strong with this one!
EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR
Vader follows Luke's X-wing down the trench.
INT. LUKE'S X-WING - COCKPIT
Luke looks to the targeting device, then away as he hears
Ben's voice.
BEN'S VOICE
Luke, trust me.
Luke's hand reaches for the control panel and presses the
button. The targeting device moves away.
INT. MASSASSI OUTPOST - WAR ROOM
Leia and the others stand watching the projected screen.
BASE VOICE
(over speaker)
His computer's off. Luke, you switched
off your targeting computer. What's
wrong?
LUKE
(over speaker)
Nothing. I'm all right.
EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR
Luke's ship streaks ever close to the exhaust port.
INT. LUKE'S X-WING - COCKPIT
Luke looks at the Death Star surface streaking by.
EXT. LUKE'S X-WING FIGHTER
Artoo-Detoo turns his head from side to side, beeping in
anticipation.
EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR
The three TIE fighters, manned by Vader and his two wingmen,
follow Luke's X-wing down the trench.
INT. DARTH VADER'S COCKPIT
Vader maneuvers his controls as he looks at his doomed target.
He presses the fire buttons on his control sticks. Laserfire
shoots toward Luke's X-wing fighter.
EXT. LUKE'S X-WING FIGHTER
A large burst of Vader's laserfire engulfs Artoo. The arms
go limp on the smoking little droid as he makes a high-pitched
sound.
INT. LUKE'S X-WING FIGHTER - COCKPIT
Luke looks frantically back over his shoulder at Artoo.
EXT. LUKE'S X-WING FIGHTER
Smoke billows out around little Artoo and sparks begin to
fly.
LUKE
I've lost Artoo!
Artoo's beeping sounds die out.
INT. MASSASSI OUTPOST - WAR ROOM
Leia and the others stare intently at the projected screen,
while Threepio watches the Princess. Lights representing the
Death Star and targets glow brightly.
MASSASSI INTERCOM VOICE
The Death Star has cleared the planet.
The Death Star has cleared the planet.
INT. DEATH STAR - CONTROL ROOM
Tarkin glares at the projected target screen.
DEATH STAR INTERCOM VOICE
Rebel base, in range.
TARKIN
You may fire when ready.
DEATH STAR INTERCOM VOICE
Commence primary ignition.
An officer reaches up and pushes buttons on the control panel,
as green lighted buttons turn to red.
EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR
The three TIE fighters zoom down the Death Star trench in
pursuit of Luke, never breaking formation.
INT. LUKE'S COCKPIT
Luke looks anxiously at the exhaust port.
INT. DARTH VADER'S COCKPIT
Vader adjusts his control sticks, checking his projected
targeting screen.
EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR
Luke's ship barrels down the trench.
INT. DARTH VADER'S COCKPIT
Vader's targeting computer swings around into position. Vader
takes careful aim on Luke's X-wing fighter.
VADER
I have you now.
He pushes the fire buttons.
EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR
The three TIE fighters move in on Luke. As Vader's center
fighter unleashes a volley of laserfire, one of the TIE ships
at his side is hit and explodes into flame. The two remaining
ships continue to move in.
INT. LUKE'S X-WING FIGHTER - COCKPIT
Luke looks about, wondering whose laserfire destroyed Vader's
wingman.
INT. DARTH VADER'S COCKPIT
Vader is taken by surprise, and looks out from his cockpit.
VADER
What?
INT. DARTH VADER'S WINGMAN - COCKPIT
Vader's wingman searches around him trying to locate the
unknown attacker.
INT. MILLENNIUM FALCON - COCKPIT
Han and Chewbacca grin from ear to ear.
HAN
(yelling)
Yahoo!
EXT. SPACE AROUND THE DEATH STAR
The Millennium Falcon heads right at the two TIE fighters.
It's a collision course.
INT. WINGMAN'S COCKPIT
The wingman spots the pirateship coming at him and warns the
Dark Lord.
WINGMAN
Look out!
EXT. DEATH STAR TRENCH
Vader's wingman panics at the sight of the oncoming pirate
starship and veers radically to one side, colliding with
Vader's TIE fighter in the process. Vader's wingman crashes
into the side wall of the trench and explodes. Vader's damaged
ship spins out of the trench with a damaged wing.
EXT. SPACE AROUND THE DEATH STAR
Vader's ship spins out of control with a bent solar fin,
heading for deep space.
INT. DARTH VADER'S COCKPIT
Vader turns round and round in circles as his ship spins
into space.
EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR
Solo's ship moves in toward the Death Star trench.
INT. MILLENNIUM FALCON - COCKPIT
Solo, smiling, speaks to Luke over his headset mike.
HAN
(into mike)
You're all clear, kid.
INT. MASSASSI OUTPOST - WAR ROOM
Leia and the others listen to Solo's transmission.
HAN
(over speaker)
Now let's blow this thing and go
home!
INT. LUKE'S X-WING FIGHTER - COCKPIT
Luke looks up and smiles. He concentrates on the exhaust
port, then fires his laser torpedoes.
EXT. SURFACE OF THE DEATH STAR
Luke's torpedoes shoot toward the port and seems to simply
disappear into the surface and not explode. But the shots do
find their mark and have gone into the exhaust port and are
heading for the main reactor.
INT. LUKE'S X-WING FIGHTER - COCKPIT
Luke throws his head back in relief.
INT. DEATH STAR
An Imperial soldier runs to the control panel board and pulls
the attack lever as the board behind him lights up.
INTERCOM VOICE
Stand by to fire at Rebel base.
EXT. SPACE AROUND THE DEATH STAR
Two X-wings, a Y-wing, and the pirateship race toward Yavin
in the distance.
INT. DEATH STAR
Several Imperial soldiers, flanking a pensive Grand Moff
Tarkin, busily push control levers and buttons.
INTERCOM VOICE
Standing by.
The rumble of a distant explosion begins.
EXT. SPACE AROUND THE DEATH STAR
The Rebel ships race out of sight, leaving the moon-like
Death Star alone against a blanket of stars. Several small
flashes appear on the surface. The Death Star bursts into a
supernova, creating a spectacular heavenly display.
INT. MILLENNIUM FALCON - COCKPIT
HAN
Great shot, kid. That was one in a
million.
INT. LUKE'S X-WING FIGHTER - COCKPIT
Luke is at ease, and his eyes are closed.
BEN'S VOICE
Remember, the Force will be with
you... always.
The ship rocks back and forth.
EXT. DARTH VADER'S TIE FIGHTER
Vader's ship spins off into space.
EXT. SPACE
The Rebel ships race toward the fourth moon of Yavin.
INT. MASSASSI OUTPOST - MAIN HANGAR
Luke climbs out of his starship fighter and is cheered by a
throng of ground crew and pilots. Luke climbs down the ladder
as they all welcome him with laughter, cheers, and shouting.
Princess Leia rushes toward him.
LEIA
Luke! Luke! Luke!
She throws her arms around Luke and hugs him as they dance
around in a circle. Solo runs in toward Luke and they embrace
one another, slapping each other on the back.
HAN
(laughing)
Hey! Hey!
LUKE
(laughing)
I knew you'd come back! I just knew
it!
HAN
Well, I wasn't gonna let you get all
the credit and take all the reward.
Luke and Han look at one another, as Solo playfully shoves
at Luke's face. Leia moves in between them.
LEIA
(laughing)
Hey, I knew there was more to you
than money.
Luke looks toward the ship.
LUKE
Oh, no!
The fried little Artoo-Detoo is lifted off the back of the
fighter and carried off under the worried eyes of Threepio.
THREEPIO
Oh, my! Artoo! Can you hear me? Say
something!
(to mechanic)
You can repair him, can't you?
TECHNICIAN
We'll get to work on him right away.
THREEPIO
You must repair him! Sir, if any of
my circuits or gears will help, I'll
gladly donate them.
LUKE
He'll be all right.
INT. MASSASSI OUTPOST - MAIN THRONE ROOM
Luke, Han, and Chewbacca enter the huge ruins of the main
temple. Hundreds of troops are lined up in neat rows. Banners
are flying and at the far end stands a vision in white, the
beautiful young Senator Leia. Luke and the others solemnly
march up the long aisle and kneel before Senator Leia. From
one side of the temple marches a shined-up and fully repaired
Artoo-Detoo. He waddles up to the group and stands next to
an equally pristine Threepio, who is rather awestruck by the
whole event. Chewbacca is confused. Dodonna and several other
dignitaries sit on the left of the Princess Leia. Leia is
dressed in a long white dress and is staggeringly beautiful.
She rises and places a gold medallion around Han's neck. He
winks at her. She then repeats the ceremony with Luke, who
is moved by the event. They turn and face the assembled
troops, who all bow before them. Chewbacca growls and Artoo
beeps with happiness.
FADE OUT:
END CREDITS OVER STARS
THE END
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