Movie Review: Star Wars - The Clone Wars

This is an interesting release, to say the least. It all started some years ago when the original Clone Wars shorts were commissioned. Under the directorship of Genndy Tartakovsky, of Dexter's Laboratory and Samurai Jack fame, the shorts were a hit. The episode length was increased from three minutes to ten for the second go-around. Again, they proved to be a hit, making fans (myself included) thirst for more.

It was then announced that the series would continue, this time in full half-hour long episodes. The series would also make the switch from traditional cell animation to computer generated animation. Unfortunately, it would also continue without Genndy Tartakovsky's involvement. This film is the first fruits of those labors, and while it is enjoyable, it is definitely not all that it could have been.

I entered the theater hoping for another blast of a Star Wars experience. I sat down and waited for the movie to start. The lights went down, the trailers rolled, and then the Warner Brothers logo appeared. I must say that it was very strange not to have the Fox logo and fanfare open a Star Wars film. The next change came with the appearance of the Star Wars logo. First, the accompanying music was different; it is like a remixed version of John Williams' theme. I sort of liked it, but upon first hearing it, it does sound a little awkward. Secondly, rather than a screen crawl to set the stage, we get what looks and sounds like a news broadcast from Starship Troopers. I was half expecting to hear them ask: "Want to know more?" This led directly into the start of the story.

Now, this film is essentially the first four episodes of the series strung together. That being so, I was looking for the episode breaks, but must say that I did not see them. Also, being a television series the animation is not on par with what we are used to from big screen animated features, like Kung Fu Panda and Wall*E, although it is a definite step up from Space Chimps and will likely play well on the small screen.

As the story opens, the Republic, with its clone army, is doing battle with Count Dooku and his Separatist droid army. The Republic's shipping routes through the inner systems have all been compromised by Separatist control, so they are attempting to negotiate with Jabba the Hutt to allow safe passage through the outer rim, which is under his control. This is where the plot begins to take shape.

We learn that Jabba's son has been kidnapped and he wants the Jedi army to find him and ensure his safe return before allowing any travel through his territory. This leads to the entrance of Obi Wan Kenobi and Anakin Skywalker, the two Jedi available to mount a Hutt rescue operation. They are joined by Ahsoka Tano, a young padawan assigned to Anakin.

Article Author: Chris Beaumont

Christopher Beaumont spends much of his time writing about music and movies when he isn't indulging in them. He is always ready to talk about his favorite form of entertainment and offer up recommendations. Interests: SF, horror, and metal. …

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