Star Words: Episode VI, Part 7

Now that Han is thawed, all the players have been accounted for except one. And the final one makes a very dramatic appearance. Luke enters with an ominous serenity, cloaked in dark robes just a little too reminiscent of Vader's garb. He even uses the Sith Lord's signature move of telekinetic choking to get past the guards. Concerns about these similarities are not unwarranted, but Luke is still practicing the Jedi precept of offering peaceful solutions. He offers Jabba a very simple proposition. One way or another, he is leaving with his friends. Jabba has the option of conceding before things get messy.

"You can either profit by this, or be destroyed. It's your choice, but I warn you not to underestimate my power."

As far as Jabba is concerned, this entirely false bravado. How could one measly human take on an entire palace of devoted guards and lackeys? Luke is bluffing, and Jabba easily dumps him into the rancor pit. (Though not before Luke displays some of that power by seizing a blaster and doing a little damage!)

The rancor is nothing to sneeze at, but Luke prevails with a combination of skilled evasion and quick thinking. Does Jabba concede now? Of course not! He still sees himself as occupying a superior position, still can't imagine that Luke is speaking the truth. He was given a fair warning; he ignored it. Luke will not hesitate to follow through on his threat.

Every line Luke speaks in this rescue sequence is imbued with confidence and authority. Oh, we'll see later on that there is doubt beneath his self-assurance, but when it comes to taking on a Huttese crime lord, he's more than capable. I just love Luke so much in this movie.

Next, a reunion under dubious circumstances....