‘Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back’ Tops Box Office 23 Years After Reissue
For the first time in 23 years, Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back is back at the top of the box office this weekend, Deadline reports.
The film has clocked an estimated $175,000 at 483 locations and is expected to end the weekend in the $400,000 to $500,000 range. Part of the original trilogy, the film is famous for its introduction of Yoda and the big twist that Darth Vader is Luke Skywalker's father.
The Empire Strikes Back has not had a box office lead since its reissue in February 1997. This lead brings the 1980 George Lucas-produced story and Irvin Kershner-directed film to $290.4 million domestic revenue. Globally, all “Star Wars” films have grossed a whopping $10.3 billion.
With the coronavirus pandemic and cinema closures, drive-in theaters have gained traction, where classic reissues such as The Empire Strikes Back, Ghostbusters, Jurassic Park, and Jaws continue to perform well.
