Film Reviews

Attack of the Clones

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If you're a fan and have been worried about the quality of Episode II after the very average Phantom Menace, fear not - for Attack of the Clones is a reversion to the atmosphere, tone and delivery of the original trilogy. Set a decade or so after the Phantom Menace, Anakin Skywalker (Christensen) has grown up to be a formidable Jedi in the making, thanks to the tutorage of Obi-Wan Kenobi (McGregor). However, all is not well in the Republic and some fractions are intent on eliminating the voices of reason in the Senate. Chief amongst these is Senator Padmandeacute; Amidala (Portman), whose life is under threat from the separatists. Obi-Wan and Anakin are assigned to protect the Senator and find out who is trying to kill her, but the latter's growing infatuation with Amidala threatens to cloud his judgment. As with any Star Wars film, plot and characterisation are secondary to the imaginary world that Lucas has created and Episode II is no different. Indeed, everything in Star Wars is about as realistic as an honest politician, but, of course, that's not the point. Instead Lucas has created another marvellous slice of hokum, a hugely enjoyable addition to the franchise that has captured the imagination of millions the world over. Put quite simply, if you're a fan, you'll love it. Roll on 2005

Review by Garreth Murphy