28 years ago when Star Wars premiered in the U.S. and changed the way films are made, distributed, and marketed, a black cloaked figure draped in menace and evil marched onto the screen. In doing so, George Lucas gave us (arguably) the most intruiging, recognizable, and popular villain in the history of cinema, Darth Vader. One of my favorite scenes in the history of film is when Vader makes his first appearance in the halls of the Rebel Blockade Runner (Tantive IV for us "Star Wars" types ) at the beginning of Star Wars. His presence is unmistakable, commanding and intimidating all at once. From the familiar breathing pattern, bombastic voice (courtesy of James Earl Jones), and black helmet, Vader has always been my favorite character in the Star Wars universe, and has always had the most complexity about his persona.

What makes him tick? What makes him so angry? Why did that little boy on Tatooine become the most powerful, evil, and malicious Jedi Knight of all time? Having made sure I remain spoiler free throughout the duration of this bombardment of hype (you can't throw a stick anywhere these days without hitting something Star Wars ), I await tonight's midnight showing with feverish anticipation and joy. True, Star Wars is just a movie (no question about it), but the moments of exhilaration, happiness, and escape that George Lucas's universe has provided me with have been palpable, significant, and wondrous. Anyone who knows me realizes that this is an exciting time in motion pictures, culture, and in my life.

They say you can't go back; can't relive your youth, can't be a kid again, have to live in reality, etc., and therein lies some truth. We must make good choices, eat our vegetables, love our neighbor as ourselves, and work hard to be our best; but the joy this big kid feels in experiencing the Star Wars universe helps to make the crazy times a lot less so. In just a few short hours, my best friend (my brother) and I will experience the final film in the Star Wars saga, and relive the joy and peace of youth, and share (once again) the wonder that is Star Wars!!!

Stay tuned tomorrow for the review...