"; if(is_file("header.php")) include "header.php"; else include "../header.php"; ?>


outstanding sci-fi, a great new chapter in SW

I must say I am mystified with the criticism of the newest chapters in this amazing series. My kids, who did not see the first trilogy (4-6) when it came out, are simply nuts about this film. They pull me into the living room, sit in my lap, and there is laughter, suspense, and questions begin. I have watched it 15 times, and still have never felt bored by it.

Now we see the flaws of Anakin becoming evident, yea dominant as he slaughters for the sake of revenge. But as a sci-fi world, this immensely adds to the picture of some alternate universe and time from our own. Everything with the earlier films is densely consistent and adding to a whole that is slowly yet relentlessly revealed. This is, in my humble opinion, some of the finest sci-fi that has ever been done, on film or in print. If you can "suspend your disbelief", this is the greatest treat that modern media can offer. The depth truly rivals that of Dune.

In this film, Anakin has matured and is chaffing under the yoke of his master, Obi-wan. There is a question of talent - Anakin is a budding genius - but also of character and discipline in a newly dangerous political situation. The republic is under attack by adversaries who are revealed as a shocking lack of vision by those representing the good side of the force. Only Yoda understands the true import of what is happening, and as in the first trilogy, every single one of his utterances is pregnant with significance.

I don't mean to sound hokey - and my wife would laugh at my writing of this - but there is wisdom in all of this for those who desire to plumb its depths. Only a young mind, perhaps, can truly understand its import: the influence of talent and the fight to preserve the good, which is always threatened by uncontrolled anger and implacable hatred. This is beautiful stuff, and my children understand it better than us adults.

Then, there are the themes in this, which are unique in the series. Anakin and Padme are falling in love, perhaps predestined in an intensity they cannot control. The Jedi, too, appear not as brilliant (and perpetually lucky) improvisational fighters, but as an organised force in what may be their final battle. The scale is wonderfully vaste, even breathtaking. This battle is one of the best of the entire series.

Then there are the enemies of the good side of the Force, with mysterious facets of their plans uncovered but not yet fully comprehended. It keeps the pulse of tension going in a truly remarkable way. I do not think there is a better series of films anywhere, in terms of execution, technique, and devloping themes.

This is some of the best sci-fi I have ever seen, particularly in an era where special effects trump depth of theme. I admit that it takes an unusual and child-like mind to enjoy it, but if you "get it", there is no better entertainment experience available anywhere. It is first rate. Absolutely.

Highest recommendation.