Star Wars: Episode 3: Revenge Of The Sith (2005)

3.5 out of 4

Starring: Hayden Christensen, Ewan McGregor, Natalie Portman, Ian McDiarmid, Temuera Morrison, Samuel L Jackson, Christopher Lee

Director: George Lucas

Time: 140 mins

Viewed: Loews Jersey Gardens, Elizabeth, New Jersey

Finale of Star Wars' prequel arc, following The Phantom Menace and Attack Of The Clones, finally shows the turning of Anakin Skywalker (Christensen) to the Dark Side of the Force, eventually becoming the infamous Darth Vader. Story has Chancellor Palpatine (McDiarmid), the Iago of the piece, hissing lies into Anakin's vulnerable ear, leading him to betray the Jedi Order for his beloved Padme (Portman), who is pregnant. This reputedly last film in the series is furiously paced, and also the darkest, with the expected eye candy that Lucas' Industrial Light and Magic is renowned for. No real suspense, as one knows where everything is headed towards (if one has seen the original trilogy), but contains some effective moments, including a chilling sequence that is reminiscent of the ending of The Godfather. Worthy entry in the cycle is emotionally on par with The Empire Strikes Back (in other words, don't watch this if you want a feel-good finish), and neatly ties up most of the loose ends, though still missing the fun, humour and excitement of the originals.

(c) Joe Wong (22 May 2005)