Star Wars ending explained

What happens

Luke trusts the Force, switches off his targeting computer and destroys the Death Star while Han returns to save him. Leia honours the heroes at a ceremony, though Vader has escaped, so the Empire is wounded, not finished.

The last image

Luke, Han and Chewbacca walk down the throne-room aisle to be honoured, with Leia waiting at the end and the rebels cheering.

What it says

Luke wins by putting his instruments aside and believing in something larger than machines. Han's return shows the loner choosing loyalty. Vader's survival keeps the story open, and the medal ceremony closes the fairy tale on a hopeful note.