The New York Post reports:

The Force will not be with American businesses next week when the new "Star Wars" flick opens.

Employers are expected to see a dramatic spike in absenteeism as workers play hooky to see "Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith," when it opens May 19, according to a new report.

That loss of productivity could cost employers as much as $627 million in the first two days that the picture - the last installment of the epic sci-fi series - hits theaters.

"There is a lot of anticipation to see the final movie," said John Challenger, CEO of outplacement firm Challenger, Gray & Christmas.

"With opening day falling on a Thursday, instead of the traditional Friday premiere, we are looking at two days of 'Star Wars'-induced absenteeism."

Click on the link above to read more. Thanks to Justin for the alert.

You can read about Geek Squad's printable absentee form for Episode III here.