The best in the prequel trilogy.....the second best of all six films....

Rating: 9/10 (29 July 2005)

After almost 30 years, the Star Wars saga is finally done. I for one, am sad to see this film series go. For me, these were more than films, these were a cultural impact while I was growing up, and bring back many memories of my childhood. With that said, "Revenge of the Sith" goes out with a huge bang, and brilliantly sets the stage for the original trilogy filmed a long time ago.
At the start of the film, the clone wars are in full swing. Obi-Wan Kenobi and Anakin Skywalker are caught in a huge space battle over the planet Coruscant. Their mission, to rescue Chancellor Palpatine from the clutches of the evil Count Dooku. The opening shots are just breathless, with cutting edge technology, and edge of the seat action. I can write forever about the actual story of the film, but I will leave that for those that have not seen it, as I do not want to spoil it for the one or two people out there that have not seen it.
Anakin Skywalker's fall towards the dark side is a compelling story, and finally, after two "decent" films, we all get what we are looking for. Although I find the reason for Anakin's turn to be somewhat weak, when he finally does turn, all hell breaks loose! Hayden Christiansen has much improved as the tortured Anakin from the previous installment, "Attack of the Clones". He actually seems to show some emotion in this film.
Ewen McGregor is fantastic as young Obi-Wan Kenobi. There are certain scenes in this film where is is strikingly similar to the original Obi-Wan, Sir Alec Guiness.
However, the star of the film is not the story, and not even the amazing special effects. The main character that totally blew me away, with incredible acting, and an overall great character, was Ian McDiermand's portrayal of Chancellor Palpatine. Ian brought a credibility to the character, and watching him hiss and sneer as he turned into the supreme Emperor was engrossing!
Overall, "Revenge of the Sith" is a fantastic end to 30 years of excellent story telling from George Lucas, and a great end to the Star Wars universe. A fantastic summer movie full of action and special effects, this movie is definitely a bang for the buck! Thanks George for the great memories these last 30 years. Here's hoping we can get more adventure in that galaxy far far away.