I wouldn't say they're bad films. As in unwatchable, but they're barely good. Repeatability (of viewing) just isn't there for me, on any of the prequels. But, six years since TPM this isn't news.
I don't think i found any of the dialogue too cringe inducing as opposed to most of AOTC. But, throughout the plot is barely strung together. Not done well, etc, etc. They're amazing films really, in the sense that Lucas was an icon, Star Wars a part of pop culture..these films were events. And, in my opinion (i envy those who disagree) all three films just exist. That's it. Don't suck the life out of me, but they're just there.
There's so many things we could pick apart. Stanton's off to a good start. But, why? Three films in, why are judging these by some other standard? If Spielberg made a film like this, we'd ball up in a corner and cry. As opposed to George's previous two efforts..this one was better, but not the 'near saving grace' i'd read it to be.
I think he asked Kasden to write TPM, but Lawerence said no. He may or may not have asked Darabount. I dunno, I just think he felt he was forced to write it himself. Instead of hiring a writer, when his list of one or two contacts declined, he became a gamer and did it himself. And directing??
"I don't wanna teach anyone how to do bluescreen.."
Right.
I'm all four Lucas writing and directing, but you see the result. I'm sure if he had a good/great script he could direct a movie, but the script well..needed saving. But it never left his hands.
And these 'touchup' writers he employed for the last two. Stealin' money. Or maybe Lucas just wants the spelling changed, instead of "My lord, there's a problem with the first three acts."
He could hire a writer for Indy IV (more than one), but not Star Wars.
It's the project that made him a billionaire. These were his films to get back on the map. To 'change' cinema by going digital. It's just amazing that someone of his statue, produced this kind of low-to-mid quality.
Woody Allen does poor work, but you don't leave second guessing your childhood.
I'm sure a book will be written some day.
Through all three you can see he has good ideas. He just didn't prove to be a good enough filmmaker right now to make'em work.
Saw it a second time Saturday and it got better. There were flashes. I liked the scene berfore Anakin goes to the Temple to stop Mace. Where it's a cut back and forth between he and Padme. Nicely done, and probably the work of one of his famous friends.
Killing the Younglings should have been emotional. I thought the kid's jerk back reaction once the Saber was ignited was pretty good, but why didn't we see the Clone Troopers attack the temple, and blow some stuff up? Set up their fear?
I think Hayden is a good actor. But, geez...you can only do so much.
There were moments before 'the duel' where he came through. "(screaming) You wont' take her from me..." But, what the performance lacks is'nt his fault.
And yes Mike..Anakin should've dominated the fight more. I'd read his anger would get the best of him, and that'd make him unbalanced as a fighter, and he'd make a fatal mistake. But...again..why review it? Of course it's not done as well as it could be.
I could list 50 "huh?" moments, such as why does it take 20 years for the death star to be built?
Anyway. I've geeked enough. Enjoyed parts. Shame they all weren't better.
