Absolutely Breathtaking

Rating: 10/10 (24 May 2005)

"Star Wars Episode III, Revenge of the Sith"  Written & Directed by George Lucas
Grade (Out of 5 categories; See below for description and score card): 4.25
Entertainment Level: 4th Grade to Nursery Home
Meets the Hype:Exceeds
Star Wars brings the difficult task of grading one chapter of a story versus grading the story as a whole. George Lucas set out to do something that's never been accomplished in cinema history and that's telling one full story over six films. Considering that this "chapter" was the turning point of the whole story and also served as the bridge between the prequel trilogy and the original trilogy, I'd have to say Mr. Lucas not only accomplished what he set out to do, but did so in a unique & compelling fashion. Sith is the fastest paced, darkest and deepest of the six part epic and could very well be considered the best. While up to this point, popular opinion would consider "A New Hope" and "The Empire Strkes Back" the best in the franchise, I believe that given time, Sith will be regarded as the most emotionally satisfying, while at the same time adding much more depth to the original trilogy, especially Vader's redemption in the waning moments of "The Return of the Jedi". I was left in a saddened state at the conclusion of this film. Since "The Phantom Menace", all knew that young Anakin Skywalker was doomed / destined to become Darth Vader, but few foresaw that the deep troubles within his soul would ultimately consume him and imprison him to a lifetime of evil, regret and solitude that would leave the audience feeling sorry for the fallen Jedi Knight.
This movie was fin amazing!!! From the opening battle above Curoscant to Vader'sfirst breath and everything in between, there's satisfaction for the most serious "Jedi Knights" to the newcomer "Padawans" (Where have you been for the last thirty years??). After a quick paced start, the film settles in to its emotionally dark epitome. Anakin is faced with horrible images of his secret wife, Padme, dying in childbirth much like the ones he had of his mother before she was murdered in "Attack of the Cones" (Episode II or the fifth one). He sets out, selfishly determined to do whatever it takes to stop his visions from coming to fruition. Losing faith in the Jedi order, mixed with corrupted teachings from Chancellor Palpatine, Anakin ultimately begins his journey towards the dark side of the force where his fate will be forever sealed.
Ian McDiarmed gives a flawless portrayal of a corrupted, heartless politician / Sith Lord. Ewan McGregor does not only a stunning job of Obi-Wan Kenobi, but somehow leaves us to really believe that he grows into the legendary Sir Alec Guiness. Christansen & Portman also have grown even more comfortable around one another as doomed star-crossed lovers. The story has almost always carried the Star Wars franchise, and Episode III only adds to the legendary tale. This film is, as noted above, the most emotionally satisfying of the six. Lucas has mastered the art of creating a fictional story based in a fictional universe that somehow anyone can relate to. The characters actions are all motivated and give the story an added layer of believability. (Given that it's of the Sci-Fi / Adventure Genre) John Williams score, as always is a masterpiece within itself. Music has always played a very important part of the series and Williams's blend of old familiar tunes with new dark-toned melodies hits the nail right on the head for this installment. (See Anakin's Dark Deeds during and after the Seperatist assassinations  Hair should stand on end.) Finally, the CGI special effects are, with out a doubt in my mind, the best ever put to film.
Following my first viewing of "Sith" I was speechless, after the second viewing I couldn't keep my mouth shut about it. It's quickly becoming one of my all time favorite movies that will with out a doubt stand the test of time, and will in future years be considered a Shakespearian-esquire masterpiece. Anyone who doesn't enjoy this movie are of two different types: Ones who are haters and decided that they wouldn't enjoy it prior to viewing or ones that should be checked in to their respective local psyche ward.
JAK Official Scorecard
Acting: 0.50/1.00 Story: 1.00/1.00 Emotional Impact: 1.00/1.00 Believability: 0.75/1.00 Camera Use / F/X: 1.00/1.00 Total: 4.25/5.00