Initial reactions ***SPOILER ALERT***

Rating: 7/10 (19 May 2005)

I liked this movie better than the rest (except for Empire). I just got out of the movie, and want to do a brain dump on some thoughts, so forgive me if they aren't organized.
The intro credits: War! What does it mean "there are heroes on both sides." Who is a hero on the Seperatist side? Dooku?? The opening sequence is awe-inspiring. I'd go again just to see that part. Is it possible to homage your own films?? The placement of certain elements (X-wings with TIE fighters, the Chancellor watching the duel) are intentional, but effective. Shouldn't Obi-Wan have had a broken leg after this part? Who knew R2 was such a bad-ass? General Grievous was OK, but a little more back-story would have been welcome. I assume he's an attempt at a cyborg, but who knows.
Much less comic relief from Threepio is a welcome change. Bad writing of love scenes...is consistent. Why can none of the Jedi sense Anakin's secret with Padme (it's not like he controls his feelings well)? Is it safe to infer that the Emperor is Anakin's father? His mother was a slave and claimed she became pregnant with no father involved. Palpatine claims the Sith have knowledge of how to create life from the Force. I am glad there was no "I am your father" scene this time. Even if he's not, Palpatine sure is Vader's father.
I expected more from Mace Windu, thought it was cool to see the Emperor's appearance change. Anakin's motivations were clear, but the change to utter devotion was too quick. I think he should have grudgingly accepted his master's wishes a bit longer. He also seemed to waiver between accepting that he was doing wrong, and thinking his actions were justified.
I liked the Godfather-like killing of the Jedi (homage to his mentor, Coppola?). I wish Vader had more of a hand in that. The Jedi weren't really "hunted" down (although some probably will be between ep. III and IV).
Yoda apparently flies in a port-a-potty. I did like the introduction of the Alderaan ships. Ties things together.
Is this the first fight between like-colored lightsabers? After the end of that fight, I can see why Vader is so upset. Wow! I understand he is awkward in the suit intentionally (because it's new). It also explains why he can't defeat Obi-wan in ep. IV. He possibly hasn't dueled with anyone in that suit until Ep. IV.
Padme. Reminded me too much of Trinity in Matrix Revolutions. Waste of a good character/actress. It would have been nice if they explained how she chose the babies' names...
I really wanted to hear more about Dagaboh and actually see Qui-gon. Other than that, I got everything I needed/wanted from the movie, except my own personal lightsaber.