George scores BIG again

Rating: 7/10 (2 July 2005)

George Lucas has done it again. Another fine entry from that galaxy long ago and far away, one I predict will have the multitude racing to their nearest video store upon its much anticipated release on DVD. Fans of the saga will not be disappointed with the visuals. The effects are simply dazzling. Mouths will drop, and eyes will pop out of their sockets at everything George has packed into this production. Everything that fans have been expecting to see since they were first introduced to that galaxy all those years ago are delivered with great style. The acting is among the best of the saga. In my mind, Ian McDiarmid should get an Oscar nod for his performance as Chancellor Palpatine. Even Hayden Christensen's portrayal of Anakin Skywalker was surprisingly impressive. Frankly, I did not think he could fill Vader's boots. But all in all, stealing a line from Yoda, you FEEL the force of Anakin's torment as he falls to the dark side. George doesn't hold back any punches this time. He doesn't miss a trick.
Sadly though, as good as this film is, and it is GOOD, it left me wanting to see MORE. It left many questions of the original trilogy unanswered in my mind, suggesting that George does have more plans for Star Wars in the future. It does bridge the gap well, but not enough in my mind. In certain spots, I think George forgot to watch Episode IV: A New Hope at all. Viewers can practically toss out Obi-Wan Kenobi's speech in his hut on Tattooine. The events of the current installment just don't add up to what Obi-Wan tells Luke at all. Does Anakin want Luke to have his light-saber? Shouldn't Obi-Wan have known Anakin was going to be a father to make that scene possible? Hmmmmmmmmm...I guess we will have to stay tuned for more from George.
Other inconsistencies from the original trilogy include Padme's death. How can Leia recall her mother when Luke doesn't? Could she be so adept with the force as a baby? Other nagging points of interest: Why does Luke feel his presence on Dagobah in Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back is "something out of a dream" when he never is taken there?, Where was the search for the Death Star plans?, Where was the Rebellion to the Empire at all??? Again, stay tuned for more from George I suppose. All these points aside, this installment of the saga is great entertainment and a film that true fans of the saga will not want to miss.