“It’s a Trap!”

Return of the Jedi

Memes and GIFs did not exist in 1983 and Admiral Ackbar’s exclamation “it’s a trap” was so very nearly a product of the wrong era as a result. Fortunately, Star Wars has stuck around and the Admiral has been able to take his place alongside the internet’s greatest meme stars.

But the “it’s a trap” scene earns it’s spot as my 18th favourite Skywalker Saga moment for more than it’s simple memeability. It marks the beginning of one of my favourite space battles in the saga.

The Rebellion thought they would catch the Empire off guard. With Gold Leader Lando Calrissian at the helm of the Falcon, the rebels jumped out of hyperspace to meet the second Death Star. Han Solo was leading the ground assault on the station’s shield generator. He would cripple the system, the rebels would attack the work in progress planet killer, destroy it and nullify the Empire once more.

However, the Empire jams the Rebel Alliances’ readings on the status of the shield. The penny drops for a bemused Lando; “But how could they be jamming us if they don’t know that, (brilliant pause), we’re coming.”

Lando gives the command for all fighters to break off and fall back, an Imperial blockade has appeared behind the fleet. It was, of course, a trap. The Empire scrambles it’s fighters and the Battle of Endor is underway.

The Empire’s Executor, along with 30 Star Destroyers dwarf the Rebel Alliance’s measly armada. The heroes are once again fighting against all odds, painfully outnumbered but with greater resolve – and a little help from some ingenious friends on the ground.