Poor title, great film

Rating: 9/10 (29 May 2002)

Just about the only thing I didn't like about this film was the title.
I'm 38 so I've followed the series right from the start, and I'm pretty sure that after I've seen this film a few times it'll become my favourite. Yes, it's even better than "The Empire Strikes Back".
The film had a really good pace, much better than "Phantom Menace" where I remember checking my watch a few times in the cinema. I was quite surprised when it had finished, I thought there was still some time to go!
The effects have come on so far since the first trilogy that I'd be willing to bet my last shilling on Lucas re-vamping IV, V and VI again, otherwise they're going to look a bit clunky if watched in episode order. Perhaps then he'll finally release them on DVD.
I'm really surprised at some of the criticism aimed at the film. The acting is no worse (although admittedly no better) than IV, V or VI. Product placement seemed a bit more restrained, and there was some good humour in the film (C3PO aside).
The reason I like "Empire" is that it really fleshes out the mythos and the story, and "Clones" is fantastic for the same reason. The effects are mind-blowing too, but it needs the storyline to make the fight and chase scenes have any real meaning. This film has Yoda with a light sabre and an attitude, how could it possibly fail?
"Phantom Menace" really grew on me when I saw it a few times on DVD, and if this does the same then I think this will become THE classic Star Wars film.
Can't wait for part III.......