Distressing Damsel

Another beautiful wide shot of Cloud City, after which we follow a cloud car through the city (thanks to the advancing technology of the special editions) until we finally come to the window where Leia is visible. This rather long establishing moment gives us a sense of the urgency and worry simmering below the surface of the pretty scenery.

Leia is pacing restlessly, and even when Han comes along and tries to reassure her, they remain mostly at a distance or at least distanced from the audience. When we finally end with a closer shot, its potential romance is abrogated by the dialogue -- even if things work out and nothing sinister is lurking below, Han will be leaving. There's nothing more they can say.

Next time, a first full look at the uglier side...