Disappointed

Rating: 6/10 (7 November 2012)

I understand that this original Star Wars is a classic. Undeniably, several scenes, situations, and dialog are present here that I am sure have been copied endlessly - a mark of a true classic. John Williams' theme is grand and memorable. Yet there are elements in the film I wish were polished further.
One is the utter unrealistic nature of the Stormtroopers' shooting. Obi-Wan's comment about their shots being precise made me roll my eyes. Never was it more demonstrated as Leia and Luke were trapped on the tiny dangling platform. Their military performance was horrendous. I understand how bad guys' aims are usually off - but Stormtroopers bring this to a whole new level of bad. I never felt a sense of danger even when faced against an battalion of those soldiers.
Second is the battle and death of Obi-Wan. Their sword/saber-fighting was extremely stiff and boring. It literally felt like an old man swinging his cane. And Vader sure felt epic - but it didn't show in what was a prime opportunity. How unfortunate. Moreoever Obi-Wan's death, while honorable, was unnecessary and badly timed. He could have sacrificed himself when the survivors boarded the ship already, not when they were standing in plain view. But then, given number 1, I'm sure it wasn't much of a problem.
Finally, the characters were absolutely bland. They were cardboard characters with a single attribute. Only Han was a tad developed, the rest were flat. Luke was earnest and brave, Leia a strong female figure, Vader evil, Ben wise. The rest, C3P0, R2D2, random 'generals' in the Death Star, felt necessary but boring. Well, except the droids. I was amused.
Maybe it has something to do with the fact that I never watched this in the cinema, or watched the prequel trilogy before this original one. I downloaded all three in the hope that I would enjoy and revel upon this classic. Now, the next step is uncertain, because the first was unfortunately disappointing.