Remarkable Improvement

Rating: 9/10 (26 June 2009)

Episode II may not be entirely perfect, but still, it is a huge improvement compared to the last one. Fans will cheer over the fact that Jar Jar Bink's screen time has been chopped in two, although he does play a major part in a crucial scene concerning the power of the Chancellor. Fans will know this signals the beginning of the Clone Wars, and the end of the Republic. I appreciate the film's darker tone. Anakin is now played by Hayden Christensen, who in my opinion portrayed the more 'sinister' side of Skywalker. Much enjoyed.
In this film, Lucas also introduces new characters, like bad-ass Jango Fett and Christopher Lee as Count Dooku. Their performances are extremely well done. The mystery aspect of the film is something that I find adds much to the film and sets up the relationship with the original trilogy. We are also able to see more of Naboo and Coruscant, giving the film that same sense of awe and wonder the first three did. The action, which you do have to wait a bit for, is definitely worth the wait. Once the action starts, it doesn't let up, ending with an incredible lightsaber duel. Some will undoubtedly find Yoda's fight with Dooku laughable, but I find it modestly enjoyable. Despite being less than three feet tall, he truly is the most skilled Jedi Master who has ever lived.
John William's does an excellent score, as usual, even providing a romantic theme for the love angle of the story. The problems I had this one, not much, it was just a bit slow at times. While surely not surpassing the originals, Episode II is still a remarkable improvement.