The Force is definitely back!

Rating: 6/10 (16 May 2002)

For the last week I have been reading reviews of this movie by so called respectable critics, I read words like, dull, uninspired , predictable. So I went to see the film with a feeling that I might be dissapointed, all I can say is that it is better than I thought it would be! I have been a fan of Star Wars ever since I was a kid, like most Star Wars fans, I prefer the story of the first trilogy, I grew up with it so I have more of a nostalgic connection with it. This new film is on the level of the first films, definitely better than Episode I, which I liked, but this one tops it in every way! Episode I was more geared towards kids, it did not have the adventurous nature that the other Star Wars film had had. Critics that quibble over the dialogue and the story being cliched should take look at the other movies, Star Wars has NEVER been known for its incredible dialogue. Haydn Christensen does a good job as Anakin, he has a few very good key scenes, nothing worthy of Oscar consideration but, he gives the character the right tone. Ewen Mcgregor gets Obi-Wan right, in the last movie he looked like the role didn't suit him, this time he grows into the role well. Natalie Portman is good, and looks great as now Senator Amidala. Visually this film is easily the most ambitious movie of its kind, George Lucas and the sfx team have outdone themselves! OH and then there is Yoda, lets just say that he steals the film. The important thing is that the Star Wars feeling is back, EPI did not achieve the level of adventure and wonder that I think is crucial in the Star Wars films. Is it the best film in the series? NO, but it definitely is the best installment since Empire Strikes Back! So DON"T listen to skeptical critics, go and have a good time!