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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.
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