Engaging story, great visuals overcomes flat acting

Rating: 7/10 (6 January 2007)

Revenge of the Sith is a fast-moving, intense story supported by some spectacular visual scenery and special effects. For what it is, it also deals intelligently with two pretty serious themes: 1) how a democracy gives up its authority and 2) how a person loses his fight with his own demons. Only two actors (Ian McDiarmid and Ewan McGregor) give solid performances (as well as a computer-generated Yoda) and the chemistry between some of the characters is really not there (the dialog probably didn't help). Although Hayden Christensen is a good actor, he did not seem to command the presence or intensity I would have associated with a young Darth Vader. However, the fun and innocence that is associated with many Star Wars movies is there, and combined with the intensity of the last 30-40 minutes, the movie provided great entertainment. Compared to the previous two Star Wars, this one also stands up better to repeat viewing.