Review: "Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones"

People say that The Phantom Menace was the worst installment of the prequel trilogy. I kind of liked that film. However, this movie is a considerable step-down, trading emphasized action and character development for cheesy romance and underdeveloped characters.

I get that the actors are at least trying here, but Hayden Christensen just feels wooden, although he can convey some convincible emotion. Natalie Portman also has a weaker performance in this film, feeling more stiff and boring. However, Ewan McGregor still shines as Obi-Wan Kenobi, and Samuel L. Jackson adds something to the film, as well. Christopher Lee gives acceptable acting, and the banter between C-3PO and R2-D2 is much better than the mildly funny but nonsensical screaming of Jar Jar Binks in the first film, although he still has an unnecessary but improved role in this film. However, what made the first film more enjoyable was the presence of Liam Neeson as Qui-Gon Jinn, who gave a soothing performance and sadly died in the end. He could perhaps be the best part of the first film, looking back at it.

Although the special effects are pretty decent, they pale in comparison to The Phantom Menace and do not hold up well in 2021. The human movements look unrealistic and the CGI looks cheap, especially for a budget of $115 million, although it is the same as the first film. They could've done better, but at least the big battle scenes are thrilling and distract from the boring monologue of the rest of the film. The final act of the film is amazing and wonderfully executed, even if it can't make up for the rest of the movie.

One of the film's biggest pratfalls is its dialogue. The romantic scenes between Anakin and Padme feel forced in a way, and the exchanges between the two are nothing short of laughable, although there may be a scene or two that could make someone sad. The scene where Anakin's mother dies is perhaps the corniest in this entire film, due to the fact that she, quite literally, jerks her head backward and dies with an open mouth. I could not contain my laughter, and those little movements ruined what should have been a scene where audiences should cry.

Attack of the Clones has some good action and somewhat solid performances, but they're bogged down by cheap-looking CGI, clichéd dialogue, and laughably bad romantic moments.

RATING: 5/10