Rating: 
Summary: The Rise of the Empire.
Review: I will keep this short. AOTC was awesome. Just saw it last night. I was totally blown away and was not expecting what I saw. It was everything that TPM wasn't. Its a complete 180 degree turn from TPM. It ties in nicely with ESB & ROTJ. You get to see the Emperor, find out a little of how Anakin turns into a machine, and the music. We get to hear Darth Vader's theme music, as well as the Emperor's, and all the great Star Wars music that was not in TPM. It makes you drool for Episode III, but I guess we will have to wait three years. I hope we get to see how Darth Vader gets his full body armor, helmet, and breathing machine. I can't wait for this movie on DVD. A+.
Rating:
Summary: ATTACK OF THE CLONES A Worthy Addition to the STAR WARS Saga
Review: I'm a STAR WARS fan that loves the Original Trilogy, and I also enjoyed THE PHANTOM MENACE,flaws and all. I've been excited about this film ever since I saw TPM for the first time, yearning for the continuation of the saga. I've been on several highs-and lows-waiting for this film, either hearing how wonderful it was going to be or how badly Lucas has botched it. So did it deliver for me? BIG TIME! ATTACK OF THE CLONES not only captured the magic of STAR WARS, but delivered a finely crafted film with interesting characters and loads of dramatic action. I was expecting to hate the love story-and it's probably my favorite aspect of the film. I loved the anguish of Anakin, not able to control his feelings despite the ramifications of falling in love. Padme's conflict-torn between duty and love-was poignant to me. The love story is full of cliches, but then so is the whole SW Universe. This aspect of the film, to my amazement, gets a big thumbs up from me.
The action sequences and visuals are breathtaking, among the best not only in the SW series but in fantasy film history. I was very pleasantly surprised with all of the performances; I knew that Christopher Lee would be wonderful, and he was. Ewan McGregor is Obi Wan Kenobi. I felt like I was seeing and hearing the same character from the OT. He was perfect, and in full command. Hayden Christensen surprised me alot; he was likable and appealing most of the time, but there were moments when I felt hairs standing on the back of my neck as Christensen unleashed the rage that will ultimately be his downfall. A very textured performance. Natalie Portman also has her moments, and does well in her scenes with Hayden. The oily malevelonce of Ian McDiarmid's Palpatine is palpable; with every scene he becomes more and more the despised Emperor from ROTJ. But the best performance in the film is undoubtedly the voice of Frank Oz, and the special effects Wizards of ILM in their creation of Yoda. This film is Yoda's film, pure and simple. He is the sage who sees clearly that the end of the Republic is near and that the Darkside is going to eclipse the galaxy, and he's an action hero par excellence in what may be the single finest moment in any SW film. The audience cheered with delight at this pivotal moment, a landmark in special effects and fantasy film making.
ATTACK OF THE CLONES more than holds it's own against the Original Trilogy and may be the second best STAR WARS film, second only to THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK.
Rating: 
Summary: You get your money's worth!
Review: I saw it yesterday in a half-full theater (third day after release). This film delivers a spectacle worthy of the price of admission. The story takes place on several planets, all of which are depicted with rich background detail. New and interesting characters are introduced, such as a four-armed chef in a diner and a mercenary soldier who seems to possess Jedi-class fighting skills. The love story is distracting, but at least it allows Padme (formerly a queen, now a senator) to pick up a blaster and join the Jedi in fighting the bad guys -- Natalie Portman finally showed some spirit. The computer effects are even better than before, and the humor works better than in Episode I. Jar Jar Binks is relegated to a minor role. There are a few shortcomings. The action scenes are sometimes shown so close-up and so fast that you can't tell what is happening. I plan to buy the DVD in order to slow down many of the scenes. Also, some of the computer-generated creatures are too anthropomorphic -- the head of a crab-like creature shows an evil and toothy smile. But these are small quibbles. If you are a Star Wars fan, or if you just like Sci-Fi-action movies, forget the small flaws. Just go see it. You will enjoy it.
Rating:
Summary: The Genius of George Lucas Revealed
Review: Since May of 1977, when the original 'Star Wars' premiered, George Lucas has been assembling the biggest cinematic jigsaw puzzle ever to hit the realm of fantasy and science fiction; a monumental undertaking that has forever altered the celluloid landscapes of the universe while propelling the art of filmmaking ahead at light speed. His epic saga is the ultimate tale of Good against Evil-- pure in every sense-- and with the fifth installment, 'Star Wars: Episode II, Attack of the Clones,' Lucas carefully inserts more of the integral pieces into that puzzle, leading us ever closer to the full and complete picture that will be revealed in Episode III, the sixth and final chapter that will at last bring the story full circle. It has been ten years since the events depicted in 'Star Wars: Episode I, The Phantom Menace' unfolded, and the ramifications of galactic politics has brought the galaxy to the brink of war; the life of Padme Amidala (Natalie Portman)-- now a member of the Senate-- has been threatened, and Jedi Knight Obi-Wan Kenobi (Ewan McGregor) and his young apprentice, Anakin Skywalker (Hayden Christensen), have been called upon to protect her. Not an easy task, however, as the dark side of the force has grown in strength, clouding the future to such an extent that not even Jedi Master Yoda (Frank Oz) can discern what may be in the offing. Jedi Council Leader Mace Windu (Samuel L. Jackson) is concerned with the threat of the impending war and the possible outcome, for he realizes that the Jedi, though strong, are too few; they are the peace keepers of the galaxy, but there is simply not enough of them to fight a war. But the one who is perhaps the most troubled of all is Anakin Skywalker, who in his zeal to cling to his autonomy is beginning to feel the pull of the dark side, that part of the force that will eventually seduce him, and to which he will ultimately dedicate himself. And when it happens, it will drastically affect not only Anakin, but Obi-Wan, as well; and most especially, the young woman with whom Anakin has been in love since the first day they met, Padme Amidala. George Lucas is a visionary filmmaker; he is to film what Jules Verne, H.G. Wells and J.R.R. Tolkien are to literature, with a touch of Aesop and The Brothers Grimm thrown in as well. If you take a step back, pause and reflect upon what Lucas has done, it's awe-inspiring. Not only did 'Star Wars' spring from his fertile imagination, but he managed to translate it all vividly to the screen, with all of the myriad plot twists and turns, characters and intricacies, in a cohesive, accessible way that makes it riveting entertainment that has been embraced by audiences around the world and from one generation to the next. And with 'Episode II,' he does not merely give you more of the same-- the forte of most sequels, especially beyond a second installment-- but develops the story and characters with meticulous detail that takes you one step closer to that moment when all is revealed and the final link is established, tying it all together. Beginning with the original, and right on through the (now) five films, Lucas demonstrates what a master craftsman he is, delivering an engrossing story that is visually astounding, as well. And throughout the series, he maintains a continuity and consistency in the presentation; in the storyline, the way it is acted and the overall 'look' of the finished product, and with a pace that it always perfectly attuned to the moment-- accelerated for the heart-pounding action sequences, more deliberate when needed, to effect the personal drama that lies at the core of the story. In the final analysis, George Lucas is one of the few artists to whom the title 'filmmaker,' in the absolute purest and truest sense, can be attributed. He is a brilliant storyteller; a genius who has perfected and advanced his chosen medium perhaps more than anyone else before or since. And, inexplicably-- like Chaplin and Welles during their respective lifetimes-- Lucas has never been truly or properly recognized for his many accomplishments; recognition that is deserved and overdue. It's time to stand up and acknowledge him as the gifted artist he is. In his second outing as Obi-Wan, Ewan McGregor continues to amaze. Creating the younger version of the character already established so indelibly by Alec Guinness-- and making him convincing-- had to be a tremendous challenge; and McGregor comes through with banners raised high. He does not merely imitate, but truly captures the essence of the character established by Guinness, almost as if channeling Guinness' spirit through his performance. He has the mannerisms, the speech patterns, expressions and body language, all of which leads to a seamless transition from McGregor to Guinness in Episode IV. And it's all done in a subtle, unassuming and quite natural way by McGregor, which makes his Obi-Wan believable and real. It's a studied, discriminating portrayal, and a real accomplishment for this talented young actor. Another of the strengths of the film is the performance by Hayden Christensen as Anakin Skywalker. Knowing that the engaging young Anakin will one day become the evil Darth Vader, it is pivotal that the actor playing the role at this stage of the character's development is able to capture and convey what it is in his personality-- and deeper, in his heart-- that allows him to be turned to the dark side. And that is exactly what Christensen accomplishes with his portrayal. Perfectly cast, he is believably the older version of the character created by Jake Lloyd in Episode I, and most importantly, he displays the dark, inner rumblings and angst that will ultimately be his undoing. Finally, the chemistry between Christensen and Portman makes the inevitable romance viable, and 'Attack of the Clones,' another triumph for George Lucas.
Rating: 
Summary: Attack Of The Moans
Review: Having seen this long awaited chapter of Star Wars i must say i am disappointed.Some reviewers in here have stated that this installment is superior to the original three....statements whiich are scarcely credible.Neither this movie,or The Phantom Menace hold a candle to the original three and heres why
The dialogue in Star Wars has never been exceptional but in this new movie i found it excruciating.The romance scenes were stilted,sterile and severely lacking in chemistry.The special effects are good but it is sensory overload right from the start...the film isnt allowed to breathe as in the originals.The story seems ill conceived and the characters two dimensional...you just dont care what happens to them(even though you already know!!!)i could go on all day but there is no need.If you are a star wars fan and not blinded by the hype then youll see what i mean.I must say however that seeing Natalie Portman in a wraparound top is worth admission alone so thats one star for effort and one for girly eye candy
Rating:
Summary: Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones
Review: I have seen this movie twice in the last three days. i ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT! i LOVED Ewan McGregor, he just becomes Obi-Wan, like Alec Guinness in the old films, and Hayden was very good,he could be sweet in one scene and amazingly scary the next. the one scene that freaked me out the most was when he was telling Padm'e what he did at the Tusken camp,and the look on his face is just..... chilling. it freaked me out, totally.C-3PO was funny, as well as R2, some bad puns, but it was funny, it was 3po from the old movies! and also i love the alien-guy in the bar, who wants to sell Obi death-sticks. that is my favorite line prolly. it's hilarious.and of course, the CGI is AWESOME!! and Christopher Lee was good, as was Boba(Daniel Logan) and Jango(Temura Morrison??) Fett. Boba was a mean little kid! and everyone else was good. Oh i forgot Natalie Portman! she is SO gorgeous. and i loved all her costumes, and her acting was amazing.and oh yeah... the little green dude??? YODA WAS AWESOME!!! I LOVE YODA! HE IS DEFINATELY "THE MASTER"!!!! the movie as pretty long, but it doens't drag, and isn't boring. go see it and ignore the critics...i don't get how they come to their conclusions that it's a "bad" movie.. whatever. STAR WARS ROCKS!!!!!
Rating:
Summary: Even more disappointing than "Phantom Menace"
Review: After being decidedly underwhelmed by "The Phantom Menace," I was really looking forward to "Star Wars, Episode II: Attack of the Clones," the latest film in the venerable sci-fi franchise. Alas, I found this film even more disappointing than Episode I. Much of Episode II feels like (1) an excuse to show off the latest special effects technology, and/or (2) an extended commercial for forthcoming video games. The film is hurt by unbelievably bad dialogue: much of it sounds like a bad soap opera. Also annoying was the barely comprehensible plot. Watching Episode II, I realized how much the success of the original trilogy (Episodes IV through VI) depended on the superb chemistry of Mark Hamill, Carrie Fisher, and Harrison Ford. In contrast, there is zero chemistry among the principals in Episode II. The weak love story is totally unbelievable. After seeing Hayden Christensen's fine performance in "Life As a House," I was really looking forward to his performance as Anakin Skywalker in Episode II. But his performance in this pivotal role just never worked for me. Maybe it was the bad dialogue; maybe he was let down by poor direction and editing. Other characters in the film are wasted. And ultimately, Episode II is a tremendously violent film. But unlike a war movie like "Saving Private Ryan," which treats battle carnage with sensitivity and moral awareness, "Attack of the Clones" is a film which seems to be saying that violence is fun. Part of the problem is that so many of the victims of Episode II violence are robots and nonhumans about whom, the filmmakers must assume, we just don't care. Sure, there is a lot of stunning eye candy in "Attack": the costumes, starships, sets, and alien creatures are packed with intricate detail. But with the emotional and moral emptiness at the heart of Episode II, it all doesn't amount to much. "Attack" is currently my pick for the biggest artistic disaster of 2002.
Rating:
Summary: The Clone wars have begun....
Review: The fans that WERE dissapointed with the Phantom Menace will not
be in Attack of the Clones. Attack of The Clones is perhaps the
most darkest Star Wars films of all, and I am tired of so many
fans bitching about the the new movies saying "It's not as good
as the orignal". I mean come on, the purpose of the new films
is to tell what's Star Wars is all about, not to replace the
popular orignal, and many fans aren't giving the new films a
chance. Many films disliked the Phantom Meance, many not understanding the value of the film, but Attack of the Clones
is MUCH, MUCH more darker. We are left with a postive ending
in Episode I as Padme and Senator Palpatine try to renew the republic, but instead it crumbles over a 10 year peirod. Palpatine is braniswashing the senators, and a unpostive love
relation starts to bond between the soon to be Darth Vadar, and
Padme. The film itself, is dark leading to nothing postive. Episode III is expected to be even darker. Episode II was very
action packed and for the fans that were dissapointed with the episode I, Epsiode II seems to make up for the loss. The film
is exhlirating with special effects as the dark side starts to unraviel before the galaxy, as many see the beginning of the end of democracy, and the coming of the Empire. Attack of the Clones
lives up to it's title, but Episode III is expected to be darker in 2005....
Rating:
Summary: Much Better then the Phantom Menace (TPM)
Review: ... It was much better than I anticipated. Unlike the Phantom Menace, this film was not made for kids. and Jar Jar Brinks has only about 5 minutes of screen time for the whole movie. He does play a very important scene however, even though he still is the same Jar Jar. This film is well over 2 hours long. it is the longest Star Wars movie by far. But the most important thing of this movie is that the film is more focused on the story, not visual effects. the draw back however is that the diolouge is still a bit flawed (nothing serious though). A more serious draw back is that the music near the end of the film was taken out from the Phantom Menace soundtrack. Which had a cut and paste quality to it which is not good (though only about 5 minutes of music from the TPM was taken out all together) In conclusion, go see this movie, it is getting back on the right track, big time
Rating:
Summary: alarmingly macho big-budget CGI-sludger
Review: It's a shame that these new movies are sold as continuing the Star Wars enterprise. In fact the spirit of 'Star Wars' is long gone. 'Attack of the Clones', like its predecessor, is just another mildly entertaining big-budget CGI-sludger. By 'CGI-sludger' I mean a film swamped in effects at the expense of atmosphere and clarity (visual or otherwise). Major problems with the movie are exactly those that afflicted 'Menace' - (1) way too much CGI-sludge; (2) bad characterisation; (3) plot deficiencies; and (4) redundant slapstick. However, on top there is a more worrying development. This episode does a volte-face on the essential Star Wars pacifism. Lucas has gone macho. Examples: (1) CGI overload/problems
Current CGI movies will look very, very dated in a couple of decades' time. The main problem is that CGI-scapes have very little atmosphere, making them, in the end, unmemorable. There is one nice idea which is a landscape with - appropriately - cloned waterfalls: simple and effective. But elsewhere things are just visually confusing and messy. Surprisingly, some of the effects look amateurish. Both Anakin and Padme do a bit of bucking bronco stuff on CGI creatures that is badly sync'd (the riders and the creatures are moving differently) with non-uniform lighting - a real clunker if this is supposed to be state-of-the-art. Most problematically of all, the CGI is derivative. The 'execution scene' has creatures that escaped from 'Starship Troopers', and the Verhoeven influence doesn't end there: the 'big war' sequences attempt some 'news footage' effects with rapid, search-for-the-target pans and zooms, glitchy refocussing etc. This makes these scenes way too bombastic and heavy, as if Lucas were going for a Black Hawk Down or even Private Ryan-type effect. This shoot-things-up obsession looks all-too current and is a weird and unwelcome turn where Star Wars used to be about pacifism. [Another derivative bit: the cloners have been nicked wholesale from the last scene of 'AI'.]
(2) Bad characterisation
Yoda kicking [rear] just does not work - the Buddha never went postal; nor should he. Again, this is Star Wars going military. His Jet-Li moves, tho', are very funny indeed and the best part of the entire movie. I don't think this was intentional, however.
(3) Plot deficiencies
This film alarms more than 'Menace' on this front. The clone army is pretty important to this movie - central not only to the plot but also the title. However, the development of this army when its commissioner has died without the developers' knowledge seems extremely far-fetched. Added to this it is not clear why this army was commissioned in the first place unless it was already known that Darths Sidious and Tyranus (aka Count Dooku) were already up to no good. If so, why was this knowledge not available to the Jedi in general? I guess the explanation must be that the Jedi were going for deterrence just in case. Again, this is evidence that Lucas has lost his way with Jedi motivation. Everyone's suddenly dropped the force and got tooled up instead. But would spiritual leaders really go for arms as a solution? This just does not work, and confuses Anakin's 'turn'. When he trashes his mother's tormentors, it just looks like Jedi business-as-usual in the context of this movie.
(4) Irritating slapstick
While this film wisely dispenses with the breathtakingly naff Jar-Jar Binks, the rubbish-for-laffs effect remains. C3PO's 'football head' slapstick is extremely irritating. Surely Lucas does not need to depend on this sort of nonsense for audience response. It suggests a confidence problem. Oh well, there you go. Fluff being taken way too seriously - including by me, who usually prefers stuff by Godard or Tarkovsky. However, that these new episodes ARE being taken so seriously is testament to the brilliance of the original trilogy, which got us all hooked bigtime on little (as well as big) muppets, spaceships, blokes in tupperware, and hokey mysticism as if these were the greatest, most important cinematic ideas ever. That the fantasy is so enduring is, perhaps, Lucas's real achievement. I can't imagine any of us bothering much with this badly-conceived, macho codswallop otherwise.
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