"Sith" is a success even measured against classics.

Rating: 8/10 (22 May 2005)

Normally I tend to give sci-fi movies automatic credit for just being in their genre, but Revenge of the Sith stands alone as a great piece of cinema even when measured against the classical epic films of the 20th century. Not being a hard-core Lucasophile, I came at the movie from a fairly objective space and I found that of all Star Wars episodes, this one does the best job of communicating Lucas' overall philosophy - that we are all simultaneous mixtures of good and evil and ultimately we must achieve balance internally to be successful individually. Further, it seems plain to me now that Lucas believes this concept of balance best secures the future of humanity. Through the whole series it seems that Lucas is clarifying the old adage that "Absolute power corrupts absolutely". By showing the ambivalence and confusion in Anakin in this episode, Lucas succeeds in showing how dangerous it is to make permanent judgments that define others as either "good" or "evil". Besides the quality of the film as a vehicle for setting the philosophical base for Star Wars as a story, Revenge of the Sith is remarkably entertaining and suspenseful with an ideal mix of logical and emotional appeal. One of the most important symbols in this episode for me was the moment when Obi-Wan, arriving to face Anakin on his hellish headquarters planet, sheds his robe as he exits the ship to reveal his (pure) white garb beneath. At this moment it becomes clear that his ultimate motives are unselfish and will forever be at odds with those of his hitherto-beloved apprentice. My only major disappointment is with the halting and awkward dialog and the fact that not even this fine cast was able to overcome such maudlin ramblings as those of Skywalker and the queen. Finally, I am impressed with Lucas' judicious editing - this episode is the only one that did not leave me even once looking at my wristwatch.