What we were waiting for...

Rating: 9/10 (19 May 2002)

A return to form and Lucas' strengths, namely the sence of epic mysticism and Jedi-centred action [al be it toned down for the kiddies]. Yoda finally shows the temper of his metal. Obi wan grows up into the mantel of Alec Guiness and some decent comic relief is provided by the stright man funny man combo of R2 and C3PO. The decried mistake of Episode one i.e. Jar-Jar is corrected and the Gungan only has three or four lines [although a pivotal part in events]and Palpatine grows steadily in power and menace. The groundwork for the third installment and the original three is firmly lain and we see Christopher Lee in the second of probably what will be the three biggest grossing films of this twelve month period [with Lord of the Rings - books one and two] as the menacing count Dooku. The usual quanta of colourfull aliens and ugly monsters [one of Episode one's good points] are also here and the film will have all Starwars fans grinning and gripping their arm-rests alternately. The climatic end is built up to beautifully and a bit of romance thrown in keeps the tone quite light, without detracting too badly from the pace. A definite improvement on The Phantom Menace and for a final word - Yoda is the man!