Has the magic of the first one!

Rating: 9/10 (17 May 2002)

The original Star Wars, Episode 4, was a rehashing of old 1930's serials, but it was a highly fun and inventive one. Going to Star Wars Episode 4 was a magical movie-going experience and seeing this movie at the age of 17 was the reason that I became so heavily interested in all forms of cinema. From this "serial" series, I grew to love and appreciate all forms of film, from the "crowd-pleasers" to the darker, more thought-provoking and inventive cinema. It has a tremendous effect on the movie industry and while I certainly don't think it is the greastest film ever made, it is certainly one of my personal favorites.
So then, what do I think about the current film, Episode II, Attack of the Clones? Yes, there are some flaws with this movie. Yes, the romance might be misconstrued as awkward, but then teenagers are awkward and kind of gawkish when they are in love. (And remember Anakin is a 19-year-old with unresolved emotional attachment issues!! And Amidala is a 26-year-old who is really having trouble with the fact that this guy went from a 9-year-old nerd to a major babe magnet.) Yes, the story is complicated and intricate, but then I enjoy watching a movie that keeps you on your toes. Attack of the Clones was well done, so that four children ranging in ages from 8 - 14 could easily follow it. (As an aside, many of the same critics that are blasting this movie for this reason have often lamented about how American cinema is "dumbing down" its content for the masses. Give me a break and stop speaking out of both sides of your mouths!)
The real stars of the show are the special effects. They are incredible and they raise the bar even higher for subsequent films. I wish Samuel L. Jackson had been used more; he is such an incredible actor with tremendous range and presence. However, Christopher Lee as Count Dooku makes up for it; I hope I look that good when I am 80!
Needless to say, I highly enjoyed the film. Maybe it was because I really didn't expect it to be as good as it was. I expected a competent, enjoyable and well-crafted film, which is what one usually gets from George Lucas. What I did not expect was to experience the magic of the first one. Is it the best film I have ever seen? Absolutely not. But honestly, for the first time since the original, I felt that excitement and magic, both in the movie and in the theatre itself. And truthfully, not once did I check my watch in the entire 2.5 hours. I really did not want this movie to end!!!
So, if it is possible, go see the movie, relax and enjoy the movie for what it is: a thrilling 2.5 hour cinema "joy ride" that will leave you wanting yet more!