Empire is a magical film. I once heard it called the best 80’s fantasy film ever made, and I have to agree.
As others have mentioned, the effects, the music, the writing, the character development. It’s all top notch. It’s a movie made by some of the most talented filmmakers when they were at the absolute top of their game.
Also this:
Star Wars might have been the best contained story of the series, but Empire feels more than any other film like you have stepped into an ancient world where things of myth and archetype are happening all around you.
Very well said NeverarGreat!
An aside:
What’s wrong with the romance between Han and Leia? Their back and forth banter is one of the oft-cited strengths of the film, and I agree. Their chemistry on screen is really fun and engaging.