It told the story well

Rating: 10/10 (16 May 2002)

I have not yet read the accounts of any other reviewers, and have only heard rumors of their dismaying reports; so mine is a perspective biased only by my love for the Star Wars universe. I went with the expectation of being told a story-- a story which I, as well as any true fan, already well knew-- a story of love, intrigue, anger, and war. I was not disappointed. Already knowing what was going to happen-- what had to happen, to lead into the next story, and eventually, the story which we all know-did not spoil the telling of this story for me, for it was told in a way that captured my attention like few films have. It was a story that I loved-- so how could I possibly be disappointed?
The music was magnificent; the special effects were spectacular; the action was first-class; and the acting and dialogue served the story well. Much welcome and well-administered comic relief was provided by everyone's favorite pair of droids. Hayden Christensen much exceeded my expectations; he gave an excellent performance, for a pair of boots that are hard to fill. Natalie Portman had to grow up fast to fill her role, something that she's always been good at, and she was impressive, as always. Ewan McGregor also aged, to become a more mature Jedi Master, and did so splendidly. Ian McDiarmid continues to chill my bones as the evil mastermind with a silver tongue.
My verdict: It rocked. It ruled. I loved it.