I am only "partially" disappointed...

Rating: Null/10 (19 May 2002)

What can you say about a cultural phenomena? Yes, again the special effects were mind blowing, but again, special effects don't make a film great. Episode II follows Anakin trying to deal with his conflict: should he love Padme, even if it means breaking his Jedi oath; while Obi-Wan investigates a multi-layered plot against the Republic and its Jedi guardians. Fans of the series will love seeing more back story revealed (meeting Boba Fett's father, seeing C3P0 and R2D2 first teaming up, seeing the first plans for the Death Star, meeting the aunt and uncle who will raise Luke), watching Anakin slowing changing to what will become the Dark Lord himself, and a cool battle between the Jedis and their new enemies. But too many flat spots, sprinkled with flat acting, scenes that reminded me of "Blade Runner," and pedestrian dialogue, grounded this latest installment on an earthly plane. When the action finally comes, the film is over and I felt cheated. If it wasn't for the best scene in the film (watching Master Yoda fight with a light saber), I would have been "totally" disappointed. With the Yoda scene I am only "partially" disappointed as I cautiously await Lucas' last shot at redeeming his pop culture crown.