by Mark Amison

Created on: September 25, 2008

Filling in the gaps between episodes 2 and 3, namely the actual clone wars General Kenobi is so famous for (see A new hope), this film is generally a little fan service for those who love Star Wars, like me.
Obviously, approaching this film as a critic without my guns already fully loaded with praise is difficult, however I will try my best.
It was awesome.
There, I tried. The film is fairly action packed; after all it is depicting a war between two huge inexhaustible armies whose outcome is down solely to their generals. The separatists command a plethora of battle droids, whereas the Republic churn out wave after wave of clone soldiers.

The film focuses on the events of Obi-Wan and Anakin Skywalker naturally, but also introduces a few new characters. Most importantly is Anakin's padawan apprentice; Ashoka.
My favorite addition is probably that of Rex, the clone commander under Anakins command. Though he is no Commander Cody from Episode 3, I am always happy to see minor characters such as clone commanders getting focus.
Thankfully, the film is not just a carbon copy of the clone wars series of cartoons, but is instead set in between the two series of the aforementioned cartoon. The film follows our jedi heroes being assigned to rescue Jabba the hut's son, a task they would not usually embark on, but they need the allegiance of Jabba to access safe passage in the outer rim to help with the war effort. Hey, this is a science fiction film, so if all that jargon put you off, why are you even reading this review?
The characters are mostly all very good, Anakin actually having a likeable personality unlike Hayden Christians sub par attempt, with clone wars actually showing Anakin as a great pilot, a cunning warrior, and a good friend, rather than an angsty, love ridden, whiney teenager.
Anakin's character is further developed by his interactions with his padawan, Ashoka, who albeit is the most annoying character in the film by far, actually brings out a lot in Anakin, as her headstrong, arrogant attitude reflects a lot of what Anakin is, allowing for a lot of growth in his character.
The film does feature a fair amount of comedy, ranging from atrocious "witty" lines from any scenario involving Anakin, to actual rather humorous slapstick and banter from this films comic relief; the droids.
Containted within the rather short film, are 5-second cameos of many fan loved characters. Already mentioned is that of commander cody, but added to this list are General Greivous, Kit

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