Finally, a worthy prequel

Rating: 7/10 (19 May 2005)

I didn't hold out much hope for Revenge of the Sith. The previous prequels were so dire, I was actually considering not bothering going to see this chapter at all. Seeing the final trailer for ROTS on the big screen twisted my arm into getting to the cinema to see it. And guess what, I'm glad I did! The story's darker edge is evident almost from the start, making this a more satisfying, grown-up Star Wars movie that neatly dovetails the original films. For the first time in the prequel trilogy, George Lucas actually focuses more on plot & character rather than overdosing on CGI nonsense. While the dialogue still has a few clunky moments & some of the humour doesn't work, the plot & the pacing of the film is good enough to see it's long running time fly by. Of the actors the much-maligned Hayden Christiansen comes off best, this time more tortured soul than whiny brat. The much-talked up final sabre fight isn't a patch on Episode 1's three-way dust up (it's sole saving grace), but the film has easily more genuinely emotive moments than it's two forerunners put together. See it!