As more star systems get swept into the Clone Wars, the valiant Jedi knights struggle to maintain order. More and more systems are falling prey to the forces of the dark side as the Galactic Republic slips further under the sway of the Separatists and their never-ending droid army. Anakin Skywalker and his Padawan learner Ahsoka Tano embark on a mission that brings them face-to-face with crime lord Jabba the Hutt. Plotting against them is the evil Count Dooku and his agent, Asajj Ventress, who would ensure that the Jedi fail in their quest. This animated feature was released in cinemas as a preview to the upcoming series of the Clone Wars. Unfortunately, it was met with bad reviews due to its poor animation which was due to the fact it wasn't completely polished up to its best on release. This movie was originally planned to be the first 4 episodes of the series before it was changed by George Lucas who wanted a feature for the big screen. So these 4 episodes were made into one connected feature length story which is alright but should probably have been left for the series. However, I personally adore this film despite its flaws because I had so much fun watching it plus it has a special place in my childhood and is very nostalgic for me. It certainly acts as a great introduction and starting point to the phenomenal acclaimed series. The opening alone is fantastic with the battle of Christophsis, which is easily the best part of the movie. The action is incredible showing both a huge-scale battle and Jedi Obi-Wan Kenobi and Anakin Skywalker showing off their skills. Seeing Anakin lead clones behind enemy lines attacking the huge Tri-droids was so cool. Jumping to each one deflecting blaster bolts, destroying each one was just epic. We are introduced to many familiar faces from the prequels like Commander Cody (Obi-Wan's second in command) whilst bringing new faces to the Star Wars galaxy most notably Captain Rex and Ahsoka Tano. Captain Rex is Anakin's second in command and one of the coolest clones in the entirety of the Clone Wars. Ahsoka Tano is a Padawan learner who arrives during the Christophsis war where Obi-Wan greets her as his Padawan only to be corrected that Master Yoda had assigned her to Anakin much to his disapproval since he didn't want one. The idea of Anakin having an apprentice was such an interesting idea that would continue to be explored throughout the show. Having him be forced into it only to grow, taking her on saying: "You're reckless, little one. You never would have made it as Obi-Wan's Padawan ... but you might make it as mine", was lovely to see and is one of my favourite lines. Such a beautiful starting point for their growth as master and apprentice. I also love how they have some banter and give each other nicknames, which is pretty fun. Ahsoka was originally disliked by viewers when it was released and hated how whiney she was but I had no problem with her character. She was purposefully made this way so she could develop and grow throughout the series. She is now one of the most beloved characters in all of Star Wars. Upon finishing the battle, Yoda sends Anakin and Ahsoka to rescue the son of Jabba the Hutt, Rotta. The adventure for the little Huttling is very entertaining with the scaling of the rock tower where an abandoned monastery is, which holds the Hutt. The vertical battle is a superb idea and executed very well with some awesome visuals of the AT-TE walker climbing alongside the clones using ascension cables. Asajj Ventress also makes a return, however, this time to the canon after her appearance in the original Star Wars: Clone Wars (TV Series 2003-2005), so it was great having her back. Another pleasant surprise was having Christopher Lee voice Count Dooku, who he played in the films, giving that masterful performance as usual. Overall, whilst not perfect, having a few flaws and being a cinematic disaster, I personally adore this movie and continue to check it out. It has since become more loved among fans mainly for its real accomplishment in setting up the best product in the franchise ever, Star Wars: The Clone Wars (TV Series 2008-2020), which is the epitome of a must-see.
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