Pleasant Surprise

Rating: 8/10 (16 May 2002)

I had seen The Phantom Menace, and not particularly liked it. I had heard the terrible title, Attack of the Clones. I had heard that it was bogged down by a love story. So it came as a pleasant surprise when I thoroughly enjoyed this movie.
There are many jokes and plotlines that are easily understandable with a basic knowledge of the first trilogy. And in true Star Wars style, it wastes no time in getting right into the story, so a re-viewing of Phantom Menace may be needed.
It pays off. The characters here are very well-defined, even when not very likable. The special effects are up to par with Menace as well. It's amazing how Lucas can create even more alien species (even if he does borrow a bit from A.I.). It's still the fight sequences, though, that make this movie. Yoda is a delight and the battle sequence with all the Jedis is remarkable.
I already can't wait for Episode 3.