Not quite up to scratch, but doesn't deserve the criticism

Rating: 6/10 (6 April 2000)

Ok. Fine. This film is not quite as epic or brilliant as (two of) the three films it predates, but it is still not bad as a forerunner for what will hopefully be two excellent follow-ups. George Lucas has clearly displayed the fact that he is far better suited to directing animation over real people, but the specials effects are brilliant and Lucas' vivid imagination shines through in the dazzling array of creatures, ships and devices throughout the film. There are two problems I had with this film. Jar Jar Binks, and Darth Maul. Jar Jar was an unnecessary attempt to appeal to the younger generation, who would have loved the film without him, he brings an element of immaturity to the film. Its very hard for a film to be epic when you have a stupid, unfunny character distracting you from more important things. And secondly, Darth Maul doesn't say anything cool. When Obi-Wan fought Darth Vader in the original, the battle was replete with memorable lines left, right and centre. Darth Maul never even spoke to Qui-Gonn and Obi-Wan, and the battle, while spectacular, left me feeling empty and unfulfilled.
But these two complaints aside, this was still more than satisfactory entertainment and a good start to a new trilogy.