Troops Meet Wampas

About this scene:

Imperial troops have now entered the base, and our heroes are in retreat. But Threepio makes a quick decision to help throw off the pursuers: he tears the warning sign off the Wampa trap! The unsuspecting troops then enter the unmarked room, unaware of the fate that awaits them there. Afterwards Darth Vader enters to find only the remains of his troops.

This was cut since it was part of the Wampa storyline that ended up being dropped from the film. Originally it gave Threepio the chance for a clever but deadly joke at the Empire's expense. It also explains why he was so far behind the others when they ran into the hangar to board the Milennium Falcon.

Some photos are from the LucasArts Behind The Magic CD ROM, some from other sources. One of the trailers for The Empire Strikes Back actually contains a few seconds of this scene.

 

Threepio stops and considers. From the Star Wars Insider, issue #29. Passing the Wampa trap. Image courtesy of T-Bone Fender. Threepio tears the sign.

From an ESB trailer - grab... From an ESB trailer - tear... From an ESB trailer - mission accomplished!

Satisfied, Threepio rushes to join his friends. From the Star Wars Insider, issue #29.


Imperial troops spot a likely rebel hiding place. From the 'Behind The Magic' CD ROM.

One of the troops pushes the button to open the door.  From Star Wars Insider #49. Imperials about to meet their doom at the claws of the Wampas. From the 'Behind The Magic' CD ROM.

Fools rush in where angels fear to tread.  From Star Wars Insider #49. The troops decide to rush in. From the 'Behind The Magic' CD ROM.


Lord Vader and his troops storm the rebel base. Image courtesy of T-Bone Fender.

Vader and troops looking around the remains of Echo Base.

Darth Vader stops outside the Wampa trap door. Image courtesy of T-Bone Fender. Vader surveys the wreckage. Image courtesy of T-Bone Fender.