Great Vader, Bad Anakin

Rating: 8/10 (18 May 2005)

Have just watch the worldwide premiere of Star Wars III: Revenge of the Sith. It wasn't great but compared to the lacklustre Episode II, this concluding instalment at least offer a glimpse of the old Star Wars calibre.
I've always wondered why Hayden Christensen was casted as Anakin in Episode II. This guy is truly irritating and does not leave any impression at all. Finally in Episode III, we finally see his potential as Darth Vader. He truly brings out DV's anguish and innate evilness with just the barest trace of humanity. Sadly though, Christensen is out of his depth in his portrayal as Padme's husband. Its almost like watching a master-servant relationship! I think its perhaps a blemish for the entire Star Wars franchise that we do not have a truly memorable Anakin that can bring out both the pre and post DV stages convincingly.
Most guys would (naturally) be more interested in the fighting sequences. I think there are definitely enough lightsaber duels in Episode III to satisfy most. These are well-intersperse among the plot line although the beginning tend to drag a bit with too much dialogue between the Chancellor and Anakin. Lots of breathtaking shots of new star systems and a new mascot! (the one Obi-Wan was riding on, didn't manage to catch the name) I shall leave all these to the "techie" folks for their review.
All in all, a deserving close to 3 decades of Star Wars fans. May the force be with you.