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Star Wars Episode II:
Attack of the Clones
Directed by: George Lucas
Starring: Ewan McGregor
Genre:
Science Fiction
Run Time: 142
min.
Release Date:
May 2002
On The Web:
Official
Site
Teaser:
Movie Trailer
Reviewed by
Chad Wilson |
If one hasn’t heard about
the new Star Wars film, it’s certain all the clichés have been
encountered. The movie Episode One should have been. Classic STAR
WARS
returns. Lucas gets it right. While more than a few clichés might be
well deserved, there’s no denying STAR WARS EPISODE II: ATTACK OF THE
CLONES escapes grim expectations ...with style!
It’s now 10 years after the events in THE PHANTOM MENACE. Young Anakin
Skywalker (played by Canadian actor Hayden Christensen) has grown into a
powerful, young Jedi under the watchful eye of mentor Obi-Wan Kenobi (Ewan
McGregor, THE ISLAND).
The two continue their adventures in a new era of galactic unrest as
thousands of star systems begin to secede from the once great Old
Republic. Determined to stop the separatists, Supreme Chancellor
Palpatine (Ian McDiarmid) sends now-Senator Padme Amidala (Natalie
Portman, THE
DARJEELING LIMITED) to aid the troubled Republic under the protection of the
two Jedi Knights. What follows is a story of intrigue and epic scope as
the Old Republic continues on a path towards certain collapse.
If good advice could be given about how to review Star Wars AOTC,
it is this: be prepared to learn the difference between an honest review
and critics with a chip on their alien protuberances. Without a doubt,
Clones is an excellent Star Wars adventure. All the elements
that made the original films enjoyable come to life in Episode II,
complete with some tummy-pleasing humor, well composed special effects,
and some true surprises. Those disappointed by the first prequel need
not worry about Clones. A much more engaging, entertaining
piece of space opera awaits the hungry film fan.
Acting in Clones gets a good boost over the last prequel. While
lacking award material, the performances are noticeably refined. McGregor
truly shines as Ben Kenobi, thanks to much greater character depth and
many memorable lines. Most surprising is Hayden Christensen’s
performance as the Vader-to-be Anakin Skywalker. So perfect is
Christensen’s combination of spoiled youth, hot temper, and pathetic
confusion, it’s hard to say whether the actor is really that good or
just happened to land the right role at the right time. Regardless,
Christensen’s role is done so well it’s a guilty pleasure to watch young
Anakin descend into darkness.
Ian McDiarmid continues to scheme and plot as the evil Darth Sidious/Chancellor
Palpatine while Natalie Portman plays well the role of troubled Senator.
The love story between Anakin and Padme never really takes off onscreen,
but the awkwardness works for the pair rather than against. Other jewels
in the cast appear from actor Temuera Morrison as the cunning bounty hunter Jango Fett and
Christopher Lee of
LORD OF THE RINGS fame as the fallen Jedi Count
Dooku. Unlike the miniscule role given to fan favorite Boba Fett in the
original trilogy, Jango Fett appears in the film often and with style.
Some of the most memorable scenes surround the armor-clad mercenary.
Meanwhile, Lee’s grim Jedi Dooku fills the role of the dark, villain
with renaissance style. Like a seasoned sword-fighter, he proves a
match for Ben and Anakin and holds up well when compared to more
flashier Star Wars villains like Darth Maul.
Probably most amazing of Clones appeal is the director’s
concentration on detail. In addition to the fantastic effects and vivid
sci-fi set work, Lucas plays off the audience’s foreknowledge of what is
to come in the saga. The results are incredibly entertaining and a
welcome sight compared to the often weak, uninspired humor in The
Phantom Menace. Effects scenes are also clearer and better
composed, trading dull volume for interesting detail. The impressive
costumes truly enhance the setting, helping throw the audience deeper
into the Star Wars universe. From robot war machines to flashy starships,
the effects are always on top in this sleek adventure. A hit with fans
is sure to be Jedi master Yoda, who shows what a true master of the
force can accomplish in the film’s finale.
Where Clones loses grip on its lightsaber is no surprise.
George Lucas has never directed a Star Wars feature with the best
performances available. However, he obviously learned from previous
mistakes and served up a fun film in the process. Again, the special
effects can at times appear overwhelming, yet can only add to viewer
delight upon repeat viewings. The story remains interesting and focused,
yet doesn’t always keep the audience on a high. In particular, the first
third of the film can feel slow. Lastly, not all the humor works for the
film, but luckily it avoids hurting the picture when failing to provoke
a hearty laugh.
Star War Episodes II: Attack of the Clones may suffer from a
few weaknesses, but it’s fortunately confined to its title and little
of anything else. While the film is unlikely to dethrone THE EMPIRE
STRIKES BACK as the generally accepted king of the Star Wars
films, it gives a gallant effort worthy of the saga’s best. Aficionados
of the series will be thrilled with Clones and movie fans
looking for a fun, sci-fi adventure with some backbone are sure to enjoy
this latest Lucas creation.
Good Star Wars is always a great treat to see on the big screen.
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Image from Star Wars
Episode II: Attack of the Clones
DVD cost: $13.99
Purchase:
Tower.com
Film Review Stew
Favorite? No.
Stew Poo-Poo? No.
Newsworthy:
Shot onto digital video
using a new 24-frame High-Definition Progressive Scan camera, developed
by Sony and Panavision Inc. The cameras worked flawlessly even in
temperatures of 125°F.
Movie Quote: "But
for certain, Senator, in grave danger you are."
Other Actors/Actresses
from Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones
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