Fourth Best

Rating: 7/10 (30 May 2005)

It's finally over. I viewed this film over the Memorial Day weekend. It was more as an act of faith than than a burning desire. The first two films of this new trilogy have left much to desire. Episode I was a kiddie film, Spy Kids set in a galaxy "far, far, away." There were good sections, but not a good film. Episode II was much better but Anakin Skywaler as a petulant teen got on the nerves. Thank God American teens can't access the Force! I know that the character was supposed to be a flawed and conflicted individual, but the story and dialog did nothing to present that case. Worse, Skywalker and Padme had no chemistry. This was supposed to be a love that shook worlds and destroyed governments. That's not what I saw on film.
There are still problems in Episode III but it is visually stunning and moved with a purpose. As an action picture it was quite good. As a drama it was mediocre. There were things done in this film that should have had much more emotional impact than it did. Some of Anakin's actions were monstrous, but I never felt it. Therefore, you have my score--7--for action and visuals. Any higher score required things that were lacking in this film. It is the fourth best of the series. At least we finished on a high note.