I liked it a lot- 4.5 out of 5 stars

Rating: 10/10 (12 September 2002)

Surprisingly enough, I really liked this film. The only reason I had actually gone to see it was because of Ewan McGregor and Hayden Cristensen- I'd never watched a Star Wars movie before (Yes- I am a freak). Although most people have critised Hayden Christensen and Natalie Portman's acting, I have to disagree. Regardless of whether or not Anakin's character lived up to all the fans' expectations of what Darth Vader should have been like when he was younger, Christensen did a superb job with his role. Hayden has a very unique way of acting that makes him stand out from all the other young actors and he really put a lot of emotion and realism in it and I could truly see him as a person, not just as a fictional character. The scene with his mother and the one where he is confessing to Padme are incredibly moving. Natalie, though she seemed a bit bored and stiff at times, was very good with her eyes. In the confession scene you can see all the terror and hurt she is going through when listening to Anakin talk about killing the Tuskens, while also seeing the compassion she is feeling for him and the instinct she has to comfort him. Ewan McGregor is amazing as usual (too bad he didn't sing...:D) and brings a light touch of humor to all of his scenes. I heard he hates the Star Wars prequels and George Lucas, though...that's pretty freaking hilarious. Franz Oz is absolutely the best! I love Yoda!!!
The special effects were awesome as were Natalie Portman's costumes (though it was a tad unrealistic to have her in a different dress for every scene...). If this movie isn't at least nominated for a cinematography award, I do not know what I will do to the Oscar people.