A definite classic! Excellent orchestral music & visual effects

Rating: 10/10 (4 June 2005)

This is the only one of two Star Wars movies I have seen on first run - the other one is the original Star Wars movie I went to see with my Dad. He was especially excited due to the inclusion of holograms in the film, and holography was the center of his doctoral dissertation.
Concerning visual effects, the ones in this film were extremely well done. The problem with so many visual effects in our time is it is obvious that they were done very quickly on a computer. The music was especially excellent - I'm glad that not only was the London Symphony Orchestra properly credited, but so were some of the musicians therein (such as the concertmaster). As a conservatory-trained professional musician (as well as engineer), I enjoyed this film as much for the music and visuals as I did the plot. In fact, the shear beauty of some of the music brought tears to my eyes.
One last thing: Stay for the credits so you can hear ALL the music! This is a return to a bygone era where quality came first, and the "bottom line" came second. It's a quality I would like to see more of. This is especially refreshing after seeing so many films with cheesy visual effects and synthesized music.
PS: When the movie begins with a wonderful fanfare at the beginning, you can tell it's going to be something special. I also appreciate that the beginning has the title immediately without all the pre-title information (who cares if it's a "Twentieth Century Fox.....presents.....a George Lucas Production..........Star Wars"? We already know that anyway!) Now this is the way to do movies!