Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith (2005)

It has been three years since the Clone Wars began. Jedi Master Obi-Wan Kenobi and Jedi Knight Anakin Skywalker rescue Chancellor Palpatine from the clutches of Count Dooku and General Grievous the commander of the droid armies. Despite rescuing the Chancellor, Grievous escapes. Suspicions are raised within the Jedi Council concerning Palpatine, with whom Anakin has formed a bond. Asked to spy on the chancellor and full of bitterness toward the Jedi Council, Anakin begins questioning the council and the Jedi. Especially since he can't seek their help with his constant visions of his secret wife, Padmé, dying. Now, with a hunt for Grievous, hoping to end the Separatist armies, the Clone Wars could very well be nearing its end. All I can say about this film is it is my most beloved movie in the saga and easily the best Star Wars film ever made, definitely tied with Star Wars: Episode V - The Empire Strikes Back (1980), The special effects used in this film have outdone the previous films dramatically and even rival that of products today. There are countless breathtaking visuals from the largest to the most insignificant of assets, it all looks as if it were done recently. Just the opening sequence alone is the best piece of Star Wars content out there, which sets up the movie perfectly. It begins with a gigantic space battle with so much going on and I love all the attention put into it, even to the tiniest of details that make this world so intriguing. We also get to see Anakin and Obi-Wan flying in the battle, showing off Anakin's skills as a pilot, originally mentioned by Obi-Wan in the original movies, which bridged the gaps of the trilogies nicely. The two instantly seem more like friends than they had done in the previous film, growing closer over the conflict and war, becoming more like brothers. When they get aboard the ship, the banter and comedic quips between them only grow and are fantastic, always managing to bring a grin to my face. Not a single scene falls short at all. It's phenomenal. Revenge of the Sith has a 12A rating, which is extremely warranted considering the darker tone and brutality on display, with quite a lot of disturbing imagery and content. To put it lightly, this is a tragic film. If you haven't seen the original trilogy before these prequels, then definitely do so or this will spoil the biggest reveal in movie history for you. So skip past the red to avoid spoilers. *Spoilers* Anakin is left with no help from the Jedi with the nightmares of his wife's death since the Jedi cannot have relationships. Palpatine manipulates Anakin into the role of his new apprentice by offering him the path of the dark side to prevent death. Leading to the saddest part in the whole Star Wars saga. Order 66. This order was used on the clone army, forcing them to turn on their Jedi generals, who they had fought with for years, and gun them down in an instant, with no remorse. It is gut-wrenching. Especially seeing Yoda's reaction. Even Anakin goes to the temple and helps kill off the remaining Jedi. Two survivors, Yoda and Obi-Wan, each go to fight the two Sith as a final chance to end the evil. The final duels are some of the best-choreographed fights I have ever seen in movie history. No competition. The amount of work put in by both actors was unmatched. Not only was there such beautiful cinematography, with scenes of them clashing to the backdrop of rising lava and flames, but the time and skill that was present in this battle were just unbelievable. Combined with a reprisal of Duel of the Fates and Battle of the Heroes made for a heartwrenching, epic fight. If you love this film as much as I do, I highly recommend Star Wars: The Clone Wars (TV Series 2008-2020), which delved into the events set between this film and the previous, creating an even greater appreciation for the prequel era. Overall, every duel, planet, character, special effect, sound design, score and acting was perfect. This movie continues to blow me away every time and will forever remain a highlight in the series, which now moves onto the original trilogy. So if you want to continue the magnificent and exciting adventure return to Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope (1977) and as always, may the force be with you.

Runtime: 2h 20m

Director: George Lucas

Genre: Action / Adventure / Fantasy / Sci-fi

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Star Wars: Episode II - Attack of the Clones (2002)

After an assassination attempt on the life of Senator Padmé Amidala, Jedi Knight Obi-Wan Kenobi and his Padawan learner Anakin Skywalker are sent to investigate. After tracking down the assassin, she is killed before any information can be obtained. The two Jedi are then sent on two different missions: Anakin is sent to Naboo with Padmé to protect her and Obi-Wan is sent to the planet of Kamino, where he will investigate the assassination attempts following a lead. Little does he know, his investigations will uncover a connection between the assassination attempts and a Separatist movement led by the former Jedi, Count Dooku, against the Republic. The Galactic Republic finds itself on the brink of a civil war. Set 10 years after the events of Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace (1999), this film continues the story of the prequel trilogy in the Star Wars galaxy. Attack of the Clones is a movie I adore so much, and I know that many people dislike the prequels (including this one), but I love them all so much. They were a huge part of my childhood and I have never had an issue with them. There are so many elements of this particular adventure from the planet of Kamino with the cloning facility to the arena and the first battle of Geonosis are some of my favourite pieces of content in the entirety of Star Wars. It was also interesting to finally see things put in motion with the beginning of the Clone Wars, which was name-dropped in the first production Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope (1977). showing Lucas' had planned this out far ahead. Anakin Skywalker has grown up too since the last film and is now a skilled Jedi learner under an older Obi-Wan, who looks so cool now with a mullet and beard. Meeting with Padmé again, Anakin's feelings start to grow into something more than friendship. The two begin to fall in love, however, love is forbidden to the Jedi as they fear that it will lead to emotions that could spawn the dark side of the force. My favourite planet introduced in this film is, hands down, Kamino. Everything about it I just find so cool, from the constant rain outside contrasted with the completely bright white halls. It screams sci-fi to me, and like the rest of this film, it looks absolutely stunning. Even the music is just beautiful, bringing every scene to life thanks to the magnificent work of John Williams yet again. Most of the mystery laid out centres around the planet Kamino and how the clone army was created. It doesn't get explained to its full extent unless you watch the phenomenal show Star Wars: The Clone Wars (TV Series 2008-2020). It shows the events following this film set during the Clone Wars and before the events of the next movie (which you should watch first). The template for the clones is a bounty hunter named Jango Fett. If you have seen the originals, this name should instantly make you think of Boba Fett. Turns out he is an unaltered clone of Jango, whom he raises as a son who would go on to take up his father's armour later on, which is a fun detail. One of the main complaints in this film is the romance between Anakin and Padmé. Whilst it is odd and, at times, painful, it is hardly as bad as it made out to be, although it is still not the best. Of course, like the last film, the finale is easily the best part, with Anakin, Padmé and Obi-Wan being captured on Geonosis and placed in an arena. There they battle against three unique creatures before the Jedi arrive. It's such an impressive battle with droids spewing into the arena, where all-out conflict ensues, and hundreds of lightsabers illuminate the fight. Mace Windu, played by Samuel L. Jackson, carries a purple lightsaber, which is one of a kind. What makes it all the better is he asked to have that colour. So awesome! Overall, I adore Attack of the Clones and will continue to rewatch it frequently. I enjoy it so much, paying no mind to the hate it gets, like the other prequels. They will always be favourites of mine. Definitely check this one out with the outstanding duels, battles and improved CGI that look so good, not to mention a magical score. What's not to enjoy? Also, see the next and final entry in the trilogy Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith (2005), and may the force be with you.

Runtime: 2h 22m

Director: George Lucas

Genre: Action / Adventure / Fantasy / Sci-fi

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Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace (1999)

As imminent conflict brews between the powerful Trade Federation and the peaceful planet of Naboo, Jedi Master Qui-Gon Jinn and his apprentice Obi-Wan Kenobi travel to Naboo to warn the Queen of the galactic fallout which is to follow. Eventually, Naboo is invaded, forcing the Jedi to evacuate the planet with the Queen. With their ship damaged in the escape, they're forced to land on the desert planet of Tatooine, where they meet a slave boy named Anakin Skywalker, who is evidently one with the Force. They enlist his help in fighting the war, while the Jedi confront one of the Lords of the Sith, Darth Maul. Following the original trilogy movies, The Phantom Menace is the first of 3 prequel films that show the events that led to the first features. I would also add that watching the originals first before starting with episode 1 since they came before and have some shocking revelations best experienced by new viewers. Personally, I adore the prequels. Now I know they get a lot of hate and were constantly ripped apart by fans and critics alike, however, as time has passed, they have become so widely loved and appreciated. I grew up with the prequels and thoroughly enjoyed them from the get-go although I must admit, this was probably my least favourite, but still a good movie. The prequels use a great deal of CGI, which was mainly due to Lucas trying to push it to its boundaries. Whilst accomplishing such amazing work in the later movies, this film has moments that feel very dated due to the bad CGI, which at the time, was like nothing ever done before. Plus, if it wasn't for the work pushed on this flick, such effects of today wouldn't have come to be at such a standard they are now if it wasn't for Lucas pushing ILM. We follow two Jedi knights, Qui-Gon Jinn and Obi-Wan Kenobi, who are some of my favourite Jedi in Star Wars. They have such great scenes together, especially the final duel, which is the best sequence in the whole film. It was so cool finally seeing the Jedi at the height of their power, especially since they were all but extinct during the originals. It was also great visiting a different region of Tatooine and witnessing a pod race, which was an exhilarating experience. The race is exceptionally entertaining and includes plenty of phenomenal sound effects for the pods. We even get to see the return of some familiar characters. From R2-D2, C-3P0, Yoda and Obi-Wan, it was so much fun to see some of these beloved characters' origins and see them during an earlier period. Once the 3rd half is reached, this production drastically excels. My favourite part of the adventure is the duel between Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon against Darth Maul. The choreography is unbelievable, the location is visually stunning and the music is unmatched. The song composed and performed by John Williams (who did the exquisite soundtrack of the originals) is called 'Duel of the Fates' and is by far his finest, and most listened-to track ever. He went above and beyond in creating such an impactful piece, especially thanks to all those involved. It elevates the action and makes the whole fight all the more epic. It was that good, it is even used in the following two films. Maul is one of the coolest characters and the most loved part of the film amongst all fans. Although not saying many lines, he looks so menacing, has a double-bladed lightsaber (which had never been seen before) and was able to hold his own against two Jedi Knights. Overall, The Phantom Menace is an enjoyable tale that is not without some flaws. I personally, rather enjoyed this story and can acknowledge its issues, like the constant talk of politics and Jar Jar, but I find them interesting and quite fun. Other issues, like the wooden dialogue and acting, don't affect me. I can still have a delightful time with this entry into the Star Wars franchise. I even end up quoting so many lines from this one too. Thanks to all those countless hilarious memes. The rest of the film is simply incredible and an exciting escape to the wondrous galaxy far, far away. So give this sci-fi fantasy a look over and the next in the saga: Star Wars: Episode II - Attack of the Clones (2002), and may the force be with you, always.

Runtime: 2h 16m

Director: George Lucas

Genre: Action / Adventure / Fantasy / Sci-fi

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When released, as seen in the trailer, Yoda was originally a puppet, like he was in the original trilogy movies. This puppet was made to look much younger however, it didn't really look quite right. After the latter two prequel films were released, Yoda was made CGI since he took part in duels and fights, which led to him being changed in this one, to fit in with the following two and feel cohesive.

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Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope (1977)

A rebel ship flees from a giant Imperial Star Destroyer, as it escapes with plans for a deadly weapon belonging to the Empire. Princess Leia leads the ship but is captured and held hostage by the villainous Darth Vader in the hopes to snuff out the rebellion. Just before capture, Leia puts the plans into the droid, R2-D2, who is accompanied by C-3P0. The two escape in a pod down to the planet below, Tatooine. Meanwhile, on the planet, Luke Skywalker finds the droids and takes them in. R2-D2 escapes to try and deliver the plans to an Obi-Wan Kenobi, who lives on the desert planet. Luke catches up to him and they find Obi-Wan under the alias of Ben Kenobi. The three of them set off to Mos Eisley spaceport, where they hire some smugglers to take the plans to the planet Alderaan. Han Solo, pilot of the Millennium Falcon and co-pilot Chewbacca takes them in the hopes of rescuing the beautiful princess and helping the Rebel Alliance restore peace and freedom to the galaxy. I absolutely adore Star Wars. I love the films so much that I don't even view them as movies, they are that special to me. Although later renamed Episode 4, this was the first ever Star Wars made and when released back in 1977 it was only known as Star Wars. Years later, Episodes 1, 2 and 3 were made, but I decided to review the saga in release order rather than timeline order. If you are a first-time viewer of the franchise then you must begin with the original trilogy, as this was how it was released and with major spoilers in the later 2 films, the best way to experience them is by starting here. A New Hope is a superb sci-fi movie and one of the best at that. It is so visually stunning and holds so much wonder and imagination, which is no wonder why it changed the world of cinema forever. With iconic elements like the lightsaber (the weapon of a Jedi Knight), the force (an energy field created by all living things, which gives the Jedi their power) and the droids like Astromechs (R2-D2). This film nails the science fiction look and not to mention the feel of another galaxy far, far away. Not only did it manage to perfect the look, but would go on to shape the look and feel of every sci-fi movie, show, and video game for years to come. It would inspire products of the same decade and ones to come. There are so many great actors in this film too, like Mark Hamill, Harrison Ford, Carrie Fisher, Alec Guinness, Peter Cushing, Anthony Daniels and so many more. Even actors like James Earl Jones lend their vocals to create the phenomenal voice of Darth Vader, which is so recognisable and without it, he would not be the feared villain we all know. Some actors, like, for example, Mark Hamill and Carrie Fisher, were not very well known and not big names. However, every one of them delivered outstanding performances, which alongside the film's popularity, made them household names and led to many more projects/movie offers. The sound design is literally out of this world and brings this timeless film to life and is recognisable instantly they are so iconic. John Williams composed the music, which is nothing but fantastic, with so many memorable pieces that elevate every scene, like my favourite in this film: The Binary Sunset. It's just utter perfection. It's also an incredible feat to have composed for all the Star Wars saga films and his work brings so much emotion through these heartwarming pieces, making them all the more impactful. It wouldn't be a true space opera without the classical instruments evoking all the human emotions at every waking moment. Star Wars has had a massive impact on my life and I have nothing but praise for its creator and director, George Lucas, who brought the best franchise ever (in my opinion) to us all. Without it, the world of cinema would never have been the same. It has had so much influence over the years and continues to amaze and impress today. Overall, this is a must-watch and if you are a first-time watcher, start with this film and the original trilogy (4, 5 and 6 before 1, 2 and 3). A great movie and a magnificent franchise, which I will forever cherish. Check out the next film in the series: Star Wars: Episode V - The Empire Strikes Back (1980) and may the force be with you, always.

 

Runtime: 2h 1m

Director: George Lucas

Genre: Action / Adventure / Fantasy / Sci-fi

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