Attack of the Clones enhances the Star Wars tapestry
posted by Tygrrius @ 6:07 AM
Note: This review contains no major plot spoilers
Star Wars: Episode II—Attack of the Clones is yet another cinematic achievement for writer/director George Lucas. Attack of the Clones features an intricately woven story that greatly enhances the overall Star Wars tapestry.
While it is called "Episode II," the fact that this is actually the fifth movie produced in the series makes Lucas' accomplishment even more striking. There is no other long-running series of movies so consistent in quality.
As Lucas promised, Attack of the Clones helps put many of the events of 1999's The Phantom Menace in proper perspective. The Phantom Menace was often unfairly criticized by longtime Star Wars fans and its sequel should put much of that criticism to rest.
Obi-Wan Kenobi (Ewan McGregor) and Padme Amidala (Natalie Portman) both have larger roles this time around, which serves to further strengthen the film. Newcomer Hayden Christensen proves to be an excellent choice for Anakin Skywalker and his scenes with Natalie Portman are particularly good. Also contributing to the success of the movie are larger supporting roles for Mace Windu (Samuel L. Jackson) and Yoda (voiced by Frank Oz).
Since 1977, the Star Wars films have always led the industry in special effects. Movies with strong special effects seem to be a dime-a-dozen in the 21st century, though. Attack of the Clones raises today's special effects bar more than several notches, far outpacing all others - even The Phantom Menace.
Spider-Man and The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring look like child's play compared to this. Lucas takes total control of the screen, paying close attention to every possible detail. Attack of the Clones is the most visually stunning of all Star Wars films.
After his slightly disappointing effort for The Phantom Menace, composer John Williams proves to be in top form again with a wonderful music score that perfectly compliments the soundtracks of the classic trilogy.
The best Star Wars film is still 1980's The Empire Strikes Back. While Attack of the Clones does not quite have enough power to take this title, it is easily the best one since then. George Lucas' magnificent Star Wars puzzle is nearly complete. Episode III in 2005 will supply the remaining pieces. Like The Empire Strikes Back, Attack of the Clones will be a tough act to follow.
Star Wars: Episode II—Attack of the Clones is yet another cinematic achievement for writer/director George Lucas. Attack of the Clones features an intricately woven story that greatly enhances the overall Star Wars tapestry.
While it is called "Episode II," the fact that this is actually the fifth movie produced in the series makes Lucas' accomplishment even more striking. There is no other long-running series of movies so consistent in quality.
As Lucas promised, Attack of the Clones helps put many of the events of 1999's The Phantom Menace in proper perspective. The Phantom Menace was often unfairly criticized by longtime Star Wars fans and its sequel should put much of that criticism to rest.
Obi-Wan Kenobi (Ewan McGregor) and Padme Amidala (Natalie Portman) both have larger roles this time around, which serves to further strengthen the film. Newcomer Hayden Christensen proves to be an excellent choice for Anakin Skywalker and his scenes with Natalie Portman are particularly good. Also contributing to the success of the movie are larger supporting roles for Mace Windu (Samuel L. Jackson) and Yoda (voiced by Frank Oz).
Since 1977, the Star Wars films have always led the industry in special effects. Movies with strong special effects seem to be a dime-a-dozen in the 21st century, though. Attack of the Clones raises today's special effects bar more than several notches, far outpacing all others - even The Phantom Menace.
Spider-Man and The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring look like child's play compared to this. Lucas takes total control of the screen, paying close attention to every possible detail. Attack of the Clones is the most visually stunning of all Star Wars films.
After his slightly disappointing effort for The Phantom Menace, composer John Williams proves to be in top form again with a wonderful music score that perfectly compliments the soundtracks of the classic trilogy.
The best Star Wars film is still 1980's The Empire Strikes Back. While Attack of the Clones does not quite have enough power to take this title, it is easily the best one since then. George Lucas' magnificent Star Wars puzzle is nearly complete. Episode III in 2005 will supply the remaining pieces. Like The Empire Strikes Back, Attack of the Clones will be a tough act to follow.
Story: 8 (out of 10)
Performances: 9
Visual Style: 10
Effects: 10
Music: 10
Overall: 10
Labels: by Tygrrius, films, Star Wars
