Fun and entertaining

Rating: 8/10 (16 May 2002)

I just got back from the first showing of Star Wars: Episode II. The movie starts out fast and grabs your attention before settling down to some plot development. The visuals in this film are amazing. As long as the final product is this good, a 3 year wait is well worth it.
The acting was much better than in Episode I. Most noticable is that of Ewan McGregor. His voice shadows that of Ben Kenobi's in the original movies very nicely. Second is the acting of Hayden Christensen as Anakin. His rise and fall of emotions is amazing throughout the movie. From Pain, to excitement and to regret... he shows a wide range in ability. Not an oscar winning performance by any means but he definitely has talent to work with. Natalie Portman also did a terrific job. The more "grown-up" version of Amidala came off nicely and didn't seem forced. I won't say that she seemed so much older than Anakin... but hey...she's aged well I suppose.
The story moves along nicely and a lot of references are made to parts of the original movies... especially to The Empire Strikes Back... most noticably with C3PO and R2-D2. The transformation of Yoda from puppet to CGI was nicely done. It gave his character some life and movement.. and some great facial expressions.
Are there some "cutesy" moments that seemed out of place to me? perhaps. But much less frequent than Episode I. Jar-Jar is used much better(so..sparingly) But those 13 year olds that laugh at those scenes now will be the 16 year olds and a target audience for Episode III. So, i don't blame George Lucas at all for doing what he can to get their attention now. Overall, a great movie. Entertaining to the end and surprises that keep you on your toes. Great characters, great story, and it leaves you awaiting for the excitement that's sure to come in Episode III:(whatever they call it)