Best of the Prequel Trilogy

Rating: 9/10 (20 May 2005)

Star Wars is back! Of course, for me, it never left. But for those who disliked Episodes I and II, Revenge of the Sith will (should, anyway) make you happy. "Sith" is the bridge of the series. It shows you why everything in Episodes I and II had to happen, but without the context of "Sith" when Episode I came out, I can see why fans were startled. I recall having people asking why any of Episode I was important. But it was. When Episode II was released, people asked why things happened the way they did. But they had to. Looking back, I suppose it was inevitable that some would lose heart in Lucas and the prequel trilogy, but to me, "Sith" changes all that.
"Sith" is a powerful film. The story is taut, linear, and tense the whole way through (this despite the fact that there are many humorous moments as well). Every word, every look, every shot drives the plot inevitably to its final frame with a relentless fervor.
Lucas answers a host of questions about Episodes I and II without dragging us through dry exposition. Anakin's transformation into Darth Vader is handled in a sophisticated, realistic manner worthy of Vader's reputation. Lucas makes us invest emotionally in Anakin's destiny, in Anakin himself, and his wife and friends. Then, piece by piece, Lucas forces us to watch as the Repubic unravels, as the relationships are torn apart. He makes us hate and yet like Anakin.
There are some incredible lines in the film. The performances of the actors are several notches above the Episodes I or II. Lucas reportedly was very specific about what he wanted from the actors, which is not something he normally does. This shines through in some of the best moments of the film. The romance scenes with Anakin and Padme, while still cheesy to an extent were not nearly to the degree they were in Episode II, and Natalie and Hayden handle the material much better too. One scene with the two of them somewhere in the second half of the film is one of the most powerful scenes of the Star Wars saga, never mind the prequels.
I think we sold Lucas short six years ago with the release of Episode I. He once again shows us that he can weave a wonderful and powerful story together that can only be fully understood after that final episode. For that, he should be pleased. For that, we should be happy.