Roll on Episode III

Rating: 7/10 (17 May 2002)

Like many others, I have been waiting to see Attack of the Clones with eager anticipation. I have avoided (or tried to avoid) the trailers, and any TV spots, so that I could see it fresh.
I was looking forward to it so much, probably too much...
The special effects and set pieces are phenomenal and it's good to see George Lucas back on form. The effects are so good, that they are unnoticeable in many cases, and that is excellent. But what is unfortunate is that it seems as though the time and consideration has been put into this at the expense of the script.
The dialogue is clunky and laboured in many cases - these are not bad actors, they are just dealing with some really awful lines.
The first hour of the film is very slow, but it is worth the wait. From then on we move from one set piece to another - the introduction of new characters into the mix is great and very enjoyable. Jango Fett and Count Dooko are great villains!
There are many references to the future in this film - from the Death Star plans, to the clone army / stormtroopers; and Bail Organa to Owen and Beru. Episode III certainly holds a lot of promise.
It is a clever film, both enjoyable and thrilling, but I was expecting more... Maybe at 28 I'm just too old for Star Wars...
I think the pull to the dark side (Lord of the Rings) is just a little too strong!