George Lucas tells a beautifully crafted story rich with fine acting, witty dialogue, and amazing special effects.

Rating: 10/10 (16 May 2002)

Despite what critics have said, "Star Wars: Episode II-Attack of the Clones" is a wonderful, fun filled adventure from a galaxy far, far away. There are a few problems with the script, and the acting is stiff in places, but George Lucas has, for the most part, succeeded with creating a visually compelling, dramatically focused, and very emotional film. Much like "The Empire Strikes Back", Lucas has dwelled into darker territory with "Clones", as we begin to see Anakin Skywalker's inevitable descent to the Dark Side. We also get to see the beginning of the end for the Galactic Republic, and its transformation into the Empire.
At 142 minutes, "Clones" may seem like a long movie, but it moves at a ferocious speed, and it's over almost as soon as it begins. For me, this was a bad thing. Not enough time was given to specific scenes. The love story between Anakin and Padme Amidala feels rushed, and loses some believability because of this. The scenes with the Homestead on Tatooine had the potential to be great, but Owen Lars and Beru Whitesun, Luke's uncle and aunt from the original "Star Wars", have very few lines, and their roles in this movie seem rather pointless. I was really anxious to see this part of the film, but I was ultimately disappointed.
As for the acting, it's mostly pretty good. Ewan MgGregor does a fine job as Obi Wan Kenobi, and offers a couple of pretty good laughs during the film. Hayden Christensen is terrific as the young Darth Vader. He brings a lot of intensity and emotion to the role, and, at times, you can't help but feel sorry for him. Natalie Portman is only ok with her role as Padme Amidala. She delivers some of her lines in a dull monotone. The rest of the cast is excellent, especially Ian McDirmid as Supreme Chancellor Palpatine. He's devilishly sneaky and corrupted, and it's amazing to watch him in action. Samuel L. Jackson is also back as Jedi Master Mace Windu, and, as always, he's a pleasure to watch. Christopher Lee manages to bring us a truly memorable villain with Count Dooku, who's light years ahead of Darth Maul. His skills with a lightsabre are incredible, to say the least.
All of the technical aspects of the film are a wonder. The special effects, the sound, everything, are fantastic. The battle at the end of the film is truly one of the best action sequences ever put on screen. John Williams has also given us a dazzling musical score, his best since "Empire", I think. The love theme is amazingly beautiful.
For me, the best part of the film was the story-telling. It's absolutely masterful. The missing pieces of the saga begin to fall into place, as Anakin slowly begins his transformation into the evil Darth Vader, the beginning of the Clone Wars, the fall of the Republic, and the rise of the Empire. The final sequence of the movie will no doubt send chills down your spine, as it gives you the feeling of the impending doom that's about to be unleashed upon the galaxy.
Even with its faults, "Attack of the Clones" proves that George Lucas still has it in him to create an epic story that not only offers a huge treat for the ears and eyes, but a film rich with exhilarating emotions, raw intensity, and beautifully crafted drama.
Final Grade: B+