The Road to Hell is Paved with Good Intentions

Rating: Null/10 (18 May 2002)

The seeds are sown for the ultimate coup for Episode 3. Like Episode 1, the Dark Side moves in shadows, with deception and lies that further his dark agenda while seeming to be in the best interests of the Republic. This time, the agenda is not to gain political power, with Darth Sideous already has, but to gain control of a military force he can use to enforce his rule on the galaxy. Separatists, including the Trade Federation are striking to rebel against Republic Control with a huge army of even more advanced battle droids. But there is a possible salvation; another huge army of clones grown at the order of a dead Jedi Knight over 10 years ago - clones grown supposedly for the Republic!
While Jedi Knight Obi-Wan Kenobi seeks to uncover the mystery, and capture the source of the clone army, a bounty hunter named Jango Fett, the Jedi council realizes how deeply the dark side is clouding their ability to use Jedi visions to foresee events.
Meanwhile, young Padawan Anakin Skywalker receives his first independent assignment: the protection of former Queen, now Senetor Padme Amadala, who, as the chief opponent of a Republic Army, finds herself the target of a plot to kill her. Unfortunately, his reunion with her stirs feelings of love and passion, which are forbidden to the Jedi. Worse still, his dreams of his mother in pain and suffering lead Anakin to return to Tattooine in a desperate attempt to find her. No more direct comments, but master Yoda stated it best. "Afraid to lose her are you? Fear leads to anger. Anger leads to hate. Hate leads to suffering." Some of the seeds for his descent into a Sith lord who is more machine than man are firmly planted.
Side note. It is clear that Anakin is the chosen one who will bring balance to the force. Jedi fade and the ability to become one with the force, while still retaining a sense of self was unknown to Jedi before this time, and Anakin opened the door for this, very slightly, in this episode. Obi-Won will understand it eventually, allowing himself to be struck down to allow Luke and company to escape, while still being able to guide him.
Final note. Don't underestimate Yoda. He is wise, and kindly, and a good trainer of Jedi, not to mention a master who can gain insights into the force unlike most others. However, he is a true master of the force, and if pressed, the kindly teacher of the ways of the Jedi is a dangereous and deadly opponent if forced into battle. For knowledge and defense, a Jedi uses his power for. Short he may be, but don't underestimate his ability as a Jedi.