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 In cinemas Thursday [PG]
Director: Dave Filoni
Runtime: 98mins
Ever since Star Wars came out in 1977, much speculation was generated by the conversation Luke Skywalker had with Obi-Wan Kenobi on what the Clone Wars were actually about. Unfortunately the world had to endure Attack Of The Clones, which was surprisingly worse than The Phantom Menace, to learn all about it. The one saving grace in the entire prequel affair was the Star Wars: Clone Wars animated TV series kick-started by Genndy Tartakovsky of Dexter’s Lab and Samurai Jack fame. The series took place in-between Episodes II and III, chronicling the actual wars that took place between the Jedi who command the clone army; and the Sith Lords who manipulate and control the droid army.
George Lucas – having conceded that these were the events that people actually wanted to see rather than shoddy dialogue, poor acting and a Jedi’s case of too many ninjas – has fronted the money to create a computer animated series dedicated to the Clone Wars. This feature length film is a primer to a planned 100+ episodes on the Cartoon Network and judging by this movie alone, the series looks like it could be as good as the traditionally animated series.
The basic story line follows Anakin and Obi-Wan as they battle to secure the war efforts in the Outer Rims of the universe. Unfortunately Darth Sidious and Count Dooku have hatched a plan to kidnap Jabba’s Son in order to secure the much needed trade routes the Republic desperately need. Anakin and his new Padawan Ahsoka Tano are then forced to rescue the baby Hutt so as to ensure peace in the galaxy.
In terms of animation, the characters emotional range and voice acting are a vast improvement over the movies. However in carrying over the designs from the TV show, the movement sometimes looks awkward due to the stick-like proportions of the characters. The storyline is adequate, but a little exposition heavy, although action sequences are well-realised and plentiful enough for those with a short attention span. The introduction of Ahsoka provides a good chemistry between her and Anakin that was missing when he was paired with Obi-Wan. Furthermore, it displays a maturity in the character that was barely seen in the prequels.
Unfortunately the movie does not escape feeling like a set-up for a television show. Yes, there is a beginning middle and an end, but there are no parts of this film that particularly stand out. Despite its shortcomings, it’s still enjoyable enough for at least a single viewing.
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ELWOOD LEE
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