Lucas Strikes Back

Rating: 7/10 (20 May 2005)

Finally, after 22 years, the first "Star Wars"-movie that really deserves the huge title "Star Wars".
It seems that Lucas has learned of his mistakes committed in "Episode I" and "Episode II". He now concentrates much more on the film's characters and its story, which is a big point in its favour. After the first weak 20 minutes, the spectator is hooked in this fascinating universe. While the special effects are certainly the best you can see for the moment in films, the people, especially Anakin Skywalker and Senator Palpatine, are more important and (fortunately) more interesting. And even though you know what will happen and how it is going to end, you want to discover the "why?". Exactly in this point, Lucas knows how to handle with the spectators and their feelings. The acting is still far from being brilliant, but it really has improved: Christensen seems more confident in his role as Anakin Skywalker/Lord Vader and Christopher Lee is, as usual, excellent in the part of Count Dooku (although his part may be too short). Almost every element mentioned in this film has got some impact on the whole "Star Wars"-story. The circle closes so well that even the other five episodes get new dimensions through this.
All in all, Lucas has created a great episode III and a mesmerizing final for the whole "Star Wars"- trilogy.
Rating: 83
MarSco