Begins like another toy commercial, ends like a real movie!

Rating: 8/10 (26 May 2005)

*** This review does contain one small spoiler, but it's flagged so it can be easily skipped over. ***
It isn't immediately apparent, but Revenge of the Sith (ROTS) is easily the best film of the prequel trilogy. Unfortunately, the beginning of ROTS suffers from the same flaws as the previous two episodes: lazy plotting, weak dialog, non-existent character development, and visual effects for their own sake.
But something wondrous happens during the last 50 minutes or so. We get a real movie, with conflict, drama, plot, and characterization! The acting is much improved in this episode. Ian McDiarmid and Ewan McGregor really shine, and Hayden Christensen stops whining. Even Yoda's "acting" is better - the scene where he enters the Chancellor's office is priceless.
The first part of ROTS has too many scenes that play like a toy commercial. During the fight/chase scene between Grievous and Kenobi, you can almost hear voice-over narration saying, "Generals Grievous and Kenobi action figures, vehicle and mount sold separately." But it's confirmed later that a real movie has arrived, because you know that Lucas isn't going to sell (* SPOILER ALERT! *) burnt and dismembered Anakin action figure, legs sold separately. (* END SPOILER *)
I knew immediately when the switch occurred. It's the scene where the view changes between Anakin and Padme, each almost silhouetted against an orange sky. I said to myself at that point, now we've got a real movie on our hands, and I was right!
In conclusion, remember your Jedi lessons about patience and you will be rewarded.
My ratings by Episode: I - 4/10, II - 6/10, III - 8/10