Star Wars heats up!!!

Rating: 10/10 (23 June 2006)

AOTC begins 10 years after TPM left off. There is a noticeable gap between the two but it doesn't feel like it needs bridging. This really emphasises TPM as a prelude as what is to come in this film.
I will start off by saying how intriguing the story is in this film. The pace is fast from the beginning after an explosion. The pace is taken off in parts but essentially the film maintains its momentum until the terrific climax. No-one does them bigger and better than George. After they leave Courscant the plot divulges into two story lines one with Obi-Wan doing his bit of detective work whilst Ani and Padme are making some discoveries about themselves and their close ones. Both plots are reunited as are all the Jedi in the climactic battle. Thrilling light sabre fights and an ending that raises more questions than answers. There is a certain feeling of mysticism all the way through this film that I felt; and found it very enjoyable. It is unique and different to all other Star Wars films in that here we get to see HOW and WHY the Star WARS began. It makes the wars in the next 4 films that much more meaningful that we no know how they came about. George's panache for story telling really comes to the forte here.
The effects are stunning...enough said. The acting is solid Obi-Wan becomes more like Alec Guiness' Obi-Wan in this one yet Mcgreggor adds his own touch; which I admit could be slightly annoying at times. Other notable performances from, Oz, McDiarmind, Jackson and of course Lee. Padme seems confused yet determined which suits her character down to the earth. Hayden however gets the 1st prize. He has been criticised for being a whiny Darth Vader. While many people forget his character is still on 20 in this film and in many ways very naive. I thought he played this well. He seems to have the turbulence of youth as well as volatility yet something far more dangerous lurking beneath. While perhaps not Oscar winning; solid mention worthy performances all round. And o yes C3PO and R2 provide the usual comic relief.
As a prequel I have no complaints everything was done to the letter. This is a different Star Wars film in that it shows the beginning of the Wars but by the end we're in full swing and the next four can't come on quick enough. It links the more introductory TPM with the rest of the saga more too I fell. Answering some vital questions. Does everything it needs to and is a good Star Wars film for bringing something different and a different feel to the trilogy making it that much more complete a package. We really begin to empathise with the characters in this film; I felt so much for Anakin when is mother died and even Yoda has me on the edge of my seat. Can he really keep that level up to beat Dooku i hope her survives for the others?!? Well of course; but a real connection is deepened hear I feel. We get to know Obi-Wan that much better in this film he almost starts to feel like a friend.
All in all a must see multiple viewings for all true star wars fans. UNmissable and it brings the Saga one step closer to completion.