engaging and enthralling

Rating: Null/10 (30 May 2002)

By George he's done it!
After the dismal Phantom Menace all seemed lost. With the spectacular Episode II, George Lucas has resuscitated interest in the Star Wars franchise.
By now you're probably aware that this film has polarized audiences across the globe. All I can add is that this is a film for Star Wars aficionados only - it is steeped in Star Wars lore and has strong intertextual relationships with many aspects of the Star Wars universe.
I suspect much of the criticism this film has attracted is a more a reflection of the viewer than the maker. The mob is whining that Anakin is wooden, that the romance lacks romance, that characters aren't developed ... etc ad nauseam
If you're a knowledgeable Star Wars fan, ignore this and smile ... they just don't get it!
If you're a true believer, you will adore this film. You'll realise that the Republic has grown stale and ponderous, a dull-witted beast on the verge of extinction. It will occur to you that Palpatine is a Machiavellian dissembler who simultaneously plays the role of protector and assailant. You won't be outwitted by the Shakespearean double plot that Lucas has employed. You'll appreciate the delicious irony of Yoda leading a clone army purporting to save the Republic.
Visually, the film is stunning, eclectic and provoking - I especially enjoyed Dooku's sailcraft - artistically, the Star Wars universe is significantly enlarged.
My recommendation - if you know Star Wars intimately, enjoy! If you don't - read the literature, see the films, do some research ... and then see Episode II.
And thanks George ... looking forward to Episode III.