Episode II is missing a link, and here it is!

[ak]

.......A link to a discussion about one of the most exciting up-coming films, that is.

I've just finished reading a review by Moriarty over at AICN of the Attack Of The Clones, and it's got me more excited than I ever have been for Star Wars.

I have also just witnessed the new behind-the-scenes documentary over at the official site, which was concerned with the lightsabre fighting styles and action set-pieces, and, from what I saw - This definately looks to be the most dynamic science fiction film of all time.

Darkness? Sort of, but I don't see people's attraction to this "darkness" issue.
Lucas has said it himself that Episode II isn't really dark, but Episode III definately will be.

Romance? Yes - I have no idea how the Anakin/Padme story-line will be executed, or how it will work, i'll have to wait and see with this one.

Action? Just a small amount. I know for certain that the key-word for Episode II action is dynamic.
We get to see the entire Jedi council fighting, with all their different styles. We'll get to see Yoda fighting, who is the most skillfull fighter in the Universe - Will it work, or will it look silly? I have no idea...
- We've got a massive battle with hundreds of Jedi vs. Clone Troopers, Jango Fett, Count Dooku, a huge arena battle, and many other things that we perhaps don't know about.....

Interesting? Far more so than Episode I. Palpatine is one of the most interesting characters, so his progression to reign will be totally involving i'm sure.
Also - We have a little know character called Anakin who's getting into that "difficult" age, playing with his light-sabre, kissing ex-Queens, and en-countering new Darths.

At the moment, i'm more excited for this film than any other, that's including The Two Towers (That's more about timing though. When that film is close to coming out, i'll be hugely excited for that too).

George Lucas is clever. The script, apparently, is clever.

I have not said a negative word in this topic, but i'm sure some people shall bless us with negativity.....

A Long Time Ago In A Galaxy Far Far Away...

Star Wars Episode II: Attack Of The Clones.

http://www.gateway.net.au/~equinox/episodeii/photos/promo/photos/1.jpg



[This message has been edited by ak (edited 03-02-2002).]

[Dumb-Fokker-**]

Well, here is the negativity right here. Mortiary also felt the same way about Ep. 1, and I know he brought this up in his review, but that does take away alot of credibility. Secondly, it doesnt matter how good the script is (it does sound exciting) if the directing is wooden and shitty, which can be expected, judging from Lucas' last endeavor. I still cant help but feel excited though. Im not as excited about this film as I am Minority Report even, but still, it is SW.

[SeperateSelf]

I don't know if you can exactly say that the directing is wooden and shitty in Ep. 1. I think most of the fault in the wooden department lies with the actors. Judging by the documentaries on the Phantom Menace, Lucas kinda sat back and let the actors say their lines, and all the actors did was say the lines into the camera and didn't try to put much into it. I guess this can be put on GL's head too, for not pushing his actors for their best performance. I just think that the actors could have put more emotion into their performances.

On the topic of AOTC, I think its gonna kick ass (especially if the actors will put some more emotion into their performances). Judging by the 'Mystery' trailer, there is gonna be plenty of action, which is cool. Also, I think Palpatine will have a larger role, which is great because I thought he was the best thing about TPM. No matter if everyone says it sucks or not, I'll still see it. If it can take the good points of TPM: jedi battles, great locales, fast paced action sequences, and kick ass creatures; and remove some of the bad stuff like the wooden acting and bland dialouge, I thing it could be on par with the original trilogy.

I guess we'll have to wait 'til May to see.

[Dumb-Fokker-**]

Seperate; im sorry, but Ewan McGregor, Liam Neilson, and that chick (sry) are actually very good actors and actresses, so I doubt the fault lies with them.

[ilovemovies]

<font face="Verdana, Arial" size="2">Originally posted by Dumb-Fokker-**:
Seperate; im sorry, but Ewan McGregor, Liam Neilson, and that chick (sry) are actually very good actors and actresses, so I doubt the fault lies with them.</font>

I think that chick you are refering to is the gorgeous and talented Natalie Portman.

[pineapple]

did anyone hear about the rumor with n sync in episode II

[dicaprio_travolta_man]

<font face="Verdana, Arial" size="2">Originally posted by pineapple:
did anyone hear about the rumor with n sync in episode II</font>

Yeah, it was a very heated discussion here awhile back. And I don't think we really need to go back to that. The fact is they might be cut, but, if they aren't you're probably not even going to see them. I'm really looking forward to Star Wars episode 2 because it is my favorite trilogy of all time and the second one is sure to be darker, and more interesting then The Phantom Menace. Which wasn't all that bad once you get done to it.

[Professor Steve]

Are these the guys playing Boba and Jango?

http://starwars.com/eu/news/2002/02/news20020227_0.html

[Moviefreek]

LOL...Dear god i hope not.

[James Logan]

I'm like ak, I'm really excited by EPISODE II. But maybe that's just because I'm a dumbnut STAR WARS fan since the year I was born. http://www.joblo.com/ubb/biggrin.gif

And Steve (I mean, er, professor), to answer your question: YES. The tall guy is Jango Fett, the little one is the "other" Fett. Yup, he's the one who's gonna get eaten by the Sarlacc. And spit out, yeah, that's the guy. What's his name already? Bubba, or Boobs, or something. http://www.joblo.com/ubb/smile.gif

[SeperateSelf]

<font face="Verdana, Arial" size="2">Originally posted by Dumb-Fokker-**
Seperate; im sorry, but Ewan McGregor, Liam Neilson, and that chick (sry) are actually very good actors and actresses, so I doubt the fault lies with them.</font>

DF, I know they are all kick ass actors. Heck, Liam Neeson is one of my favorites. BUT I still think the blame lies with them, cause I seriously doubt Lucas was sitting back saying "Could you guys stop acting so much and be a little more wooden?"

I think Lucas's main weakness is that he doesn't push the actors to give their best. He kinda settles for what he thinks is sufficient. However, judging from the AOTC trailers and clips on starwars.com, the acting looks quite a bit better than in TPM.

Oh yeah, and we finally get to see some huge Jedi battles, not to mention Yoda and Mace Windu (Sam Jackson) joining in on the foray!!! I think that part at least will kick some serious ass!

[This message has been edited by SeperateSelf (edited 02-28-2002).]

[Dumb-Fokker-**]

Actually Seperate, the acting can be blamed of Lucas. I dont get the impression that the actors like working on these films too much, but they are kind-of obligated. I just dont think these actors and actresses are being give the freedom to fully become their characters, and give realistic believeable performances. Plus, we have already heard some of the dialouge. .......riiiiight

[APzombie]

As long as they try to tell a story instead of flashing more cgi shots than veggie tales it will be decent, but not unless we get another Empire Strikes Back, which focused way more on story, will we get a true star wars sequal, but to me the Phantom Menece scars will never heal and it has ruined the image of star wars forever, we cant just look past it.

[ak]

I was thinking to myself the other day - How is the Yoda/Anakin/Obi-Wan/Count Dooku fight going to work out?

We've seen, from the trailers thus far, Anakin fighting Count Dooku, but I really can't see it being greatly dynamic cause Christopher Lee is very old now. Seeing images of him at the LOTR premier he could hardly walk very well.

I know they could easily use a stunt-man for most of it, and some digital enhancements, but, as many of you will know - Lucas likes us to see the emotions from the actors faces in these fight sequences.
Another thing - These fights require one heck of a lot of training - I can't see a man who is 80 years old, doing any kind of training.

Just a thought, considering this is the fight where we will see Yoda in action, and a youthful Anakin giving all he's got.

[The Heart Collector]

Darth Vader wasn't a gymnast either and those lightsabre fights in ESB and ROTJ kicked ass.

[ak]

<font face="Verdana, Arial" size="2">Originally posted by The Heart Collector:
Darth Vader wasn't a gymnast either and those lightsabre fights in ESB and ROTJ kicked ass.</font>

Yes, but the guy inside the costume (David Prowse) was as fit as a fiddle, not an 80 year old man.



[This message has been edited by ak (edited 02-28-2002).]

[Dumb-Fokker-**]

http://hometown.aol.com/oo7kjl/myhomepage/profile.html

Found that, thought you all might like to see it. I am in no way affiliated with that, and dont know if it is real or not.

[Americana]

Well it looks like one hell of a long read, so I'll post my reaction about it laters. But I have high douts about it being real.

[James Logan]

<font face="Verdana, Arial" size="2">Originally posted by ak:
Another thing - These fights require one heck of a lot of training - I can't see a man who is 80 years old, doing any kind of training.

Just a thought, considering this is the fight where we will see Yoda in action, and a youthful Anakin giving all he's got.</font>

Yeah, Christopher Lee IS old. But let's see things the right way: if George Lucas pulls it off, it'll be even more impressive. http://www.joblo.com/ubb/smile.gif

[James Logan]

Oh, and by the way -- Fokker's link doesn't look real to me. But I could be wrong.

[Tuukka]

<font face="Verdana, Arial" size="2">Originally posted by SeperateSelf:
DF, I know they are all kick ass actors. Heck, Liam Neeson is one of my favorites. BUT I still think the blame lies with them, cause I seriously doubt Lucas was sitting back saying "Could you guys stop acting so much and be a little more wooden?"

I think Lucas's main weakness is that he doesn't push the actors to give their best. He kinda settles for what he thinks is sufficient. However, judging from the AOTC trailers and clips on starwars.com, the acting looks quite a bit better than in TPM.

Oh yeah, and we finally get to see some huge Jedi battles, not to mention Yoda and Mace Windu (Sam Jackson) joining in on the foray!!! I think that part at least will kick some serious ass!

[This message has been edited by SeperateSelf (edited 02-28-2002).]</font>

Actually Lucas is famous for a thing he has said to his actors: "Just stand there, don't emote", which is an actual quote from him. The thing is that PM had many GREAT actors in it, and each one of them gave the worst performances of their careers. Lucas himself has admitted that he is not good at directing actors, and he is not even interested in it. The problem is, that directing actors is VERY important, it's just as important as directing the camera. It's fairly obvious that Lucas was responsible for the weak acting in PM. Actors need guidance and Lucas is unable to give it to them.

[LordKaruku]

I am excited to see the visual effects in AOTC, but from what I've seen from the trailers, I don't expect the acting to be any better. Most of Hayden Christian's lines are just painful to me:

"So have you... grown more beautiful that is."

"Oh no, I'd be much too afraid to tease a senator."

I will, of course, still go see Episode 2. But I'd pay $8 bucks to see a two-hour ILM demo reel. http://www.joblo.com/ubb/smile.gif

[ak]

Actually: - The details in that script are spot on in areas. We definately know the opening is an assasination attempt. But, if I know that, and a lot of other people know that, then another person might be able to tie these things together in a fake script.

Second Thoughts - It doesn't add up in places. Anakin says after his first meeting with Padme, to Obi-Wan that she didn't recognise him, but, as seen in the trailer - She does.

Also, some of the language used is too "slangy", not Star Wars language me thinks.....

But........who knows?



[This message has been edited by ak (edited 03-01-2002).]

[gyro_44]

Yeah, some of that romantic dialogue reeks of cheese. However...

I don't see how you could not be excited for "Attack of the Clones". There is so much potential in this saga, it's immeasurable. I just pray Lucas hasn't lost his touch, and the ability to tell a good story without the non-stop interference of CGI. I enjoyed "The Phantom Menace", but it was just too kiddie.

I won't camp out for a week beforehand, but I'm anxious to get a look at this.

[ak]

I actually, thinking about it more, wouldn't be surprised if that is the script, or a draft of it. A lot of details seem to fit too well, from the recent trailers and that new behind the scenes documentary of Lightsabre fighting. Even the description of Obi-Wan flipping to his side is correct, from that documntary - And that was only released a few days back.

There are a lot of dead-on descriptions in this. Too many for coinsidence.

Either way, that was a thoroughly enthralling read.

[This message has been edited by ak (edited 03-01-2002).]

[Kami]

I have to agree with LordKaruku, the dialogue I've seen makes me want to barf. This preview comes NO WHERE near to how much excitement and anxiety the Episode I trailer brought out in me. I downloaded the widescreen version of it and I still watch it on occasion. (it actually seems better than the movie)

Also, I was really disappointed in the PM score. It doesn't help that the AOTC trailers only use the new score. I mean, if you're going to use Darth Vader's breathing in the trailer at least use Darth Vader's theme song too.

As you can tell, I think the Episode II trailers are ass. http://www.joblo.com/ubb/frown.gif Trailers are what make me go see movies dang it!! I hope they release another one. One that's not so smoochy.

[Horror whore]

Holy fuck! My anticipation keeps on getting higher and higher! I just read the script report over at AICN and it sounds great! He said it feels like Lucas is trying to make up for The Phantom Menace and the film is non stop fun....Wooo-Hooo!

[ak]

<font face="Verdana, Arial" size="2">Originally posted by Horror whore:
Holy fuck! My anticipation keeps on getting higher and higher! I just read the script report over at AICN and it sounds great! He said it feels like Lucas is trying to make up for The Phantom Menace and the film is non stop fun....Wooo-Hooo!</font>

I completely agree.

Everything in "that" script tie themselves together too well. In must be the final script.

http://homepage.mac.com/rayharryhausen/.Pictures/aotcbook.jpg



[This message has been edited by ak (edited 03-02-2002).]

[ak]

The image at this link is too large to paste up on the boards, so here is the link itself: It's a new image from Empire film magazine, of thousands of Clone Troopers making their way into a craft:

http://cgi.theforce.net/theforce/image.cgi?Image=episode2/newspics/empire2002_clonetroopers.jpg

[dicaprio_travolta_man]

<font face="Verdana, Arial" size="2">Originally posted by Kami:
I hope they release another one. One that's not so smoochy.</font>

Belive me when I a major major Star Wars fanatic says that there will be a new two and a half minute trailer attached to Ice Age on March 15th. This trailer is also appearing on Fox network TV between Malcomb In The Middle and The X-Files on Sunday at exactly 8:55 PM. And please don't judge a movie based on it's trailer alone because half the shit in trailers dosen't make the final cut anyway. They just throw something together to get us talking about the movie. That's the only reason we have trailers. Oh, and by the way that SW info come from www.starwars.com (http://www.starwars.com)

[This message has been edited by dicaprio_travolta_man (edited 03-02-2002).]

[ak]

Here's another image, this time of Yoda floating in a chair (Probably cause he's old)....

Please Note: This is probably a rough effect composition shot.

http://people.ozzienet.net/~lrogers/yoda.jpg



[This message has been edited by ak (edited 03-02-2002).]

[Kami]

I saw that info on CNN last night, but thanks. http://www.joblo.com/ubb/smile.gif As for trailers, I don't see why that shouldn't affect whether I want to see a movie. The Episode I trailer had me and my friends so fanatical that we stood in a 4 block line playing cards to buy tickets. The trailer was just fantastic imo. Although I didn't get why they changed the voice of Amidala to sound like a computer. I thought her lines sounded wonderful in the trailer. Then they made her sound like she had laryngitis.

Anyway, this trailer sounds a lot better. I'm just not the type of SW fan that will like Natalie Portman giggling when it dominates a preview. It's kinda odd because I'm a girl and I love love stories and all, but this one just didn't grab me. Hayden doesn't really look like he *loves* Padme. http://www.joblo.com/ubb/frown.gif

[ak]

Well, i'm really looking forward to the new trailer. We are definately going to see a couple of hundred Jedi fighting in it, as an official spokesman has stated. We'll probably only get a glimpse, but if people aren't that excited for the film at the moment, then, I believe, after this preview, they will be.

[Americana]

It's on March 10th right? Between Malcom and X files. I remember reading somewhere. I think that's it.

[Invincible]

<font face="Verdana, Arial" size="2">Originally posted by ak:
http://homepage.mac.com/rayharryhausen/.Pictures/aotcbook.jpg </font>

WoW fuckety fucK! That images raised some goosebumps on me! WooohOOO Totally ROCKS!

Sooo that Trailer to be aired on Sunday....Which sunday is it? THIS? like RIGHT now...today?

[Invincible]

Just a question....

Do you SW fans own any SW video games?

I own:
The Phantom Menace - PC
Star Wars: Episode 1: Racing - PC
I'm also going to get Star Wars Racer Revenge for PS2 It's a remake of the PC version.
http://gamespot.com/gamespot/images/2002/playstation2/swracerrevenge/racer2_screen001.jpg
http://gamespot.com/gamespot/filters/products/0,11114,480910,00.html

[ak]

I don't have any video games, no.


On a different note: It has come to my attention with Attack Of The Clones, how sad the whole Star Wars story is. We know, for a fact, that almost the entire Jedi get wiped out, and this makes Obi Wan and Yoda's cause more desperate in the final three episodes.
Of course, we knew this in A New Hope, The Empire Strikes Back and Return Of The Jedi, but now we're finally going to see the brilliance of the Jedi as an army, which just makes it even more sad that the peace-keepers of the different Galaxies are destroyed.
I've heard that Samuel L. Jackson's character of Mace Windu doesn't get killed in Episode II, so it should be great to see what happens with his story in Episode III. Perhaps Lucas has a fight planned with Palpatine - Who knows?... but that would be astounding to witness (Can you imagine Yoda vs. Palpatine).

I, or any other sane person knows that Lucas has got some great ideas up his sleave for Episode III.
Something doesn't quite add up with that whole Anakin and the Midiclorians story, so that may be revealed in Episode III. I once thought that Palpatine could have planted his seed of evil into Shmi, but this wouldn't work out, or be entirely logical.

So the excitement builds, and the story continues....

...I wasn't into Star Wars when The Phantom Menace was released, but I was dissapointed with it anyways....Now I look forward to Attack Of The Clones with much confidence, and believe, without setting my expectations too high, that this film is going to be one heck of a good ride....

[This message has been edited by ak (edited 03-03-2002).]

[Common Sense Man]

Hey ak I had the exact same thought today. They are going to have a story about AOTC tonight on Access Hollywood and they show Mace fighting in the arena.

It hit me then that everyone is going to croak except Yoda and Obi-Wan.

But maybe not all in episode II and if you put any faith in the Timothy Zahn books some Jedi may escape to be hunted down later, perhaps off screen in between episode II and III.

But I was surprised that no one had brought this up. It is rare to know that all the characters are going to die.

And no one has talked about this either, or at least I have not seen it.

What about cloning the Jedi Masters, sort of like an insurance policy, clone them and send them off to the other side of the Galaxy? eh?

Out.....................

[ak]

I don't think Mace Windu dies in Episode II. He has a further role in Episode III. What will happen to him in Episode III no-one knows, but he could be in a conflict with Darth Vader (still in human form though), which causes his eventual demise into a robotic Sith.
From A New Hope I got the impression that Obi Wan wasn't actually the one who destroyed Vader's body - There wasn't a great sense of exploding anger at Obi Wan from the fight in the Death Star. All he says, more or less, is the when they last met he was the student, now he is the master.

It will more than likely be Obi-Wan who "kills" Anakin though, as it's more logical in the death of their "relationship", and Obi Wan's the one who has seen Anakin through it all - This would make it far more emotional.

AND SOMETHING THAT HAS ALWAYS BUGGED ME ABOUT STAR WARS: Why does each film have to end with that rather cheery piece of score? I really hope that neither Episode II or III end with it, cause it just wouldn't be appropriate. It's also not a very dramatic piece of music, and doesn't help with the impact of the film coming to a close.



[This message has been edited by ak (edited 03-04-2002).]

[Americana]

<font face="Verdana, Arial" size="2">Originally posted by ak:
AND SOMETHING THAT HAS ALWAYS BUGGED ME ABOUT STAR WARS: Why does each film have to end with that rather cheary piece of score? I really hope that neither Episode II or III end with it, cause it just wouldn't be appropriate. It's also not a very dramatic piece of music, and doesn't help with the impact of the film coming to a close.[/B]</font>


I totally agree with you ak. I feel that the darker the story, the darker the ending score should be. With a movie like TPM, it was agreeable (Hope I spelt that right.) But with a darker movie like AOTC it just wouldn't be right ending it with some corny ass kiddie music... Right?

Anyways, it's all about the "Darkness" here. I feel that a dark movie should have a dark soundtrack to it. "Darkness baby, Darkness"

[Dumb-Fokker-**]

Um, Episode II and the whole "darkness" thing. Well, I think its utter bullshit. It might be darker than the other SW movies, but im sure wont be that dark in anything, but the night scenes. Anyways, I know im the resident LotR nerd around here, but that doesnt mean I dont like SW (ESB, and ANH anyways) so I thought you all might like to see this;

http://www.swmovies.net./episode-ii/scenebyscene/

I havent looked at it yet, but I will a little later. Enjoy.

[Stripes]

I totally agree about the ending score. I know that it would kinda break the SW mold, but this film is supposedly supposed to be dark(crossing my fingers)but remember TPM. I still have doubt in Lucas after the Phantom Menace. But hopefully this one turns it around. I hope he took the fan's slanders and bitching to heart with this one. And made a really great movie. But who Knows till its out. I'm not trying to get my hopes up. But I will definitely see it.

[James Logan]

About the music, it IS going to be there -- it's a STAR WARS "classic", like the scrolling yellow story intro, Lucas will never take it out. Even though I find your point of view entirely valid, it never bothered me: after all, SW is supposed to be a space opera epic, so that music fits.

[ak]

Dumb-Fokker-** - Thanks for that link. After reading the "script", and looking at this, all the information is coming together nicely (I don't mind spoilers).
The different sections aren't yet finished. They are still to type up the Clone Troopers vs. Jedi part.

They also include images to aid the text, that I have not seen before. Well put together, me thinks.

As for the classic cheery music at the end of the film - I know it's something that is bound to happen, cause it's the tradition, it's just - George! Step away from the boring tradition, and give us some down-beat/haunting, dramatic music! How can we possibly feel even more stunned at the massive loss at the end of the film when the main theme plays, which is, in itself, a sign of Jedi over-powerment.


P.S - One of the reasons this is able to remain a "tradition" is due to Lucas fondness of inserting a "happy" ending to a dark film.
Look at The Empire Strikes Back - The final image is of Luke and the rest of the gang looking out of a window into the stars, Millennium Falcon disappearing into oblivion.
Not entirely happy, but it isn't downbeat, compared to the rest of the film.



[This message has been edited by ak (edited 03-04-2002).]

[LordKaruku]

What will be _really_ interesting is the happy music at the end of Episode 3. The Jedi have been destroyed, the main character has turned into the most evil dictator the galaxy has ever known, an evil empire rules the galaxy... cue happy John Williams music. http://www.joblo.com/ubb/smile.gif

[ak]

I hasten to add that, from the script floating about - We end with Anakin and Padme's wedding, and then.....the final shot of the film, was said to be - Some senators over-looking the mass-production of the Clone-Trooper army, entering an even bigger ship than that seen in the preview trailers.
If that's not a dark ending, I don't know what is - Happy music - No way!

Mind you, the script may have changed. Although, the thought of the film ending on Anakin and Padme's wedding bores me. Seems too much like A New Hope and The Phantom Menace. Lucas - There is a point where this stuff gets too repetitive you know!

That's my MAIN problem with Star Wars as a whole, is that it's all too predictable in its structure. We know how it starts, we more or less know the middle, and we can guess the ending. I want to be surprised when I see Episode II.

[This message has been edited by ak (edited 03-04-2002).]

[James Logan]

Yeah, but remember that Lucas sees STAR WARS as something of a fairy tale. If it is something of a fairy tale, that it HAS to have a happy ending.
That said, considering the six movies of a whole, the happy ending is there at the end of ROTJ, and I agree -- it would be stupid to have that music at the end of EPISODE III.

[This message has been edited by James Logan (edited 03-06-2002).]

[ak]

A really interesting article over at AICN.
Check it out for some talk on Yoda, lightning bolt catching and throwing!


http://www.aintitcool.com/display.cgi?id=11680

I don't want to be getting over-excited yet, but this is even more confirmation that we're going to get quite a rush from the next two.......


[This message has been edited by ak (edited 03-06-2002).]

[James Logan]

I quickly checked out the beginning of the article, and it sounds good. But I don't want to know too much about AOTC before it comes out -- I want to discover it as I see it.

[Dumb-Fokker-**]

Found this article at AICN.

Harry,

I was there at Les Theatre Des Arts in Las Vegas to see the McCallum speech and witness the incredible Episode II footage and trailer. I love Lucasfilm. They made a big announcement that there would be no cell phones or photographic equipment of any kind allowed. I felt pretty special.

First off, I agree with the others. The footage looked fantastic - definitely more moody and atmospheric than the first episode. As McCallum himself put it: "Every one of you [theatres] that gets this movie is going to make a SHITLOAD of money."

The ten minutes of footage they showed was amazing; it was meant to show off the digital technology and it worked well. Some random bits of juicy gooey joy:

Three Sandcrawlers at dusk looking gorgeous and immense,

a great shot of Obi-Wan checking out the massive workforce of clone boys,

the whole style of Coruscant's underworld (think Gotham City from Batman Forever but done just right - holograms, neon, weird symbols and dark lighting - YUM!),

a COOL scene that looked like it was out of one of the Super NES Star Wars video games with Ani and Ami dodging massive stamping machines on a conveyor belt while Ani slashes away at bad flying reptiles with his lightsabre

And there were TONS of beautiful shots of Coruscant and the water city (Geonesis??) and the torturous waves hitting it.

The footage was immense. Great. Splendiferous. Neato.

And McCallum showed off how digital images could be blown up to 300%. Yawn. (Except for Ami in the dominatrix outfit. That was A-OK)

The big thing was the trailer. God, I loved it. It made me sit up and yell, "You go, Lucas! You remembered to add the fun and thrills this time!!!"

Here are my favorite SPOLIER-STREWN bits (and if you don't believe that I saw it, watch it yourself on the 10th and see):

Palpatine throwing his arm around Ani and saying, "I see you becoming the greatest of them all."

The revelation that Obi-Wan hates to fly!

He and Ani are in a craft chasing an enemy through the Fifth Element-looking Coruscant skies, dodging other craft. Ani says, "Sorry, Master. I know you hate to fly." Then Ani just stops the craft. Obi-Wan says, "Great, you've lost them." Ani gets up and says, "I'll be right back." He then jumps over the edge of the craft, free-falling downward. Obi-Wan leans over and says, "I hate when he does that."

Later, while being chased by Slave I, Obi-Wan states, "This is why I hate to fly."

There were tons of other little things. Yoda floating down a hallway and later arnessing blue lightning in his right hand (which lloked a little cheesy).

Some random Yoda lines from the trailer"

"The dark side clouds everything." and "Begun these Clone Wars have."

My head is still buzzing. McCallum says there are 500 effects shots left to finish before May 16th. I for one can't wait.

Later!

John Hammond

And so my dissapointment deepens. I didnt like TPM, and it seems Lucas is trying to make the exact opposite of it, which should be a good thing - but its not. Sure, AOTC looks to have huge action sequences, and the like, but how many action sequences do we need before it becomes overkill? I think in his attempt to make the film more fun, he has shoved too much into the film. Im sure the film isnt going to go to far over 2 hours, so there is an awful lot to pack in. Add in the dialouge that we have seen or heard thus far, and Lucas' inability to direct, and you have an unhappy camper. For a while there I was getting a little excited too.

[ak]

I'm a little weary at the moment too, but I am getting rather excited.
It's truly unfair to judge before the fact, so we should wait and see.
The action looks incredible thus far, and I just can't wait for the footage of the Jedi on the battle-field.

Here's to May, hope it's good!

P.S - Will somone tell me what the trailer is like on Sunday, cause I don't live in America, thus won't get the chance until a later time.

[This message has been edited by ak (edited 03-07-2002).]

[Americana]

Not to worry my good man, when it comes out on the 10th I'm sure that there will be a lot! of websites posting up bootleged copies for all of us to see. And if not I'm sure you'll get to see the one I put up. http://www.joblo.com/ubb/smile.gif http://www.joblo.com/ubb/smile.gif http://www.joblo.com/ubb/smile.gif

[Invincible]

No one has answered my question!

When will AOTC trailer be aired on TV? Which Sunday is it? This Upcoming one? What time!?

[noisy_brut]

The AOTC Trailer will be played on FOX Sunday March 10th around 8:55. Right After Malcolm in the Middle and before X Files

[A Canadian ThereWolf]

Bad News For Canadian Fans: We as Canadians may be denied The Attack of the Clones trailer on Sunday, because Global has the broadcasting rights to Malcolm In The Middle here in Canada, and its signal overrides the Fox feed, so unless you have a grey market satellite or The Force, you ain't seein' nothin' on Sunday!
It sucks, that's for sure. But at least we'll get to see it on the Web! http://www.joblo.com/ubb/biggrin.gif



[This message has been edited by A Canadian ThereWolf (edited 03-08-2002).]

[ak]

I'm going to try and kick-start this discussion again. If nothing comes of it, then that's nature...

Well, the trailer's been and gone, the release date is ever looming, anticipation is hightening, we've seen more of the film than ever before, had one or two "reviews" of the film, which were sketchy, and read the script which was online recently....

What happens from here on I have no idea, but i'm certainly getting more and more excited for it (Not at all to over-hype status though).

[ColinM]

I finally saw the trailer (I missed it on TV, but I saw it attached to Ice Age) and I must say: it kicked serious ass. Ten times better than any of the TPM trailers...

[Dumb-Fokker-**]

Wha!?!?!??!?!? Wowzers, thats a new one. I respect that you liked the trailers, but this had NOTHING on TPM trailers. Man, those were better than the entire movie. ....just thought I would say that. hehe

[ak]

I agree with Fokker - The trailers for TPM were brilliance, the trailers for Attack Of The Clones were underwhelming at best.

It leaves a bad taste in the mouth, but the two reviews I have read were very positive for it.
The second review, which was online a few days back, stated that the film was only 75% complete (effects and editing probably) but the major thing was that he actually cared about the characters.
The reviewer stated that the character of Anakin wasn't all that great, but Hayden's acting was very good, and also said that the scene where he (SPOILERS) massacres a family of Tusken Raiders is the most shocking/dark piece of the entire series thus far.

I wonder if anything can get as dark as the scene in Empire where Luke comes face to face with Vader in a dark cave, who he knocks down and sees the image of his very own face in the helmet....

Plus: I don't know if any of you saw this image in the other Episode II topic that I posted it to, but here's Yoda holding some Force lightning:


http://theforce.net/episode2/newspics/billboard1.jpg

Apparently, they've shot two fight sequences with Yoda.
One where he uses his Lightsabre, and another where he just uses the Force (seen above).
If the fight with his weapon of choice doesn't work, then they'll go with the Force fight.
Let's face it - A six foot odd Christopher Lee and two foot odd Yoda could look pretty silly, so their decision is a good one.
We'll get the one that wasn't chosen as an extra feature on the dvd, which will be great.

Another Note: I posted a few images up on the other Episode II topic the other day, which were quickly removed by Lucasfilm from the source site, and it showed Yoda in "Don't mess with me" form, which was brilliant. His hand was raised, ready to kick the shit out of Count Dookuu.


[This message has been edited by ak (edited 03-17-2002).]

[ColinM]

Right on, ak, that picture was awesome.

Well, I'll grant you that it could be that I don't remember the TPM trailers as well, and it could also be that I'm excited for AOTC, but I enjoyed the AOTC trailer enormously.

Not that it was flawless. I didn't like Anakin's security line, or "Begun this clone war has" or "I hate it when he does that". Other than that though...wow...

[Dumb-Fokker-**]

I dont know ak. Im not one to believe advanced screening reviews. I read the same exact thing before TPM came out. "You can really connect with the characters", "the acting is very good", "Darth Maul is the coolest bad-ass ever" (ill somewhat agree with that) "this film has one of the best action sequences ever". Im not gonna buy any advanced reviews until I see the film, because they are either plants or SW nuts and fanboys.

[ak]

I think the great difference this time though is this:

When TPM was due to come out, people wanted it to be great, and those who may have seen a rough-cut of it might have thought it was good at that stage (effects not being completed and all that jazz), not believing that it could be anything but good. The mind can play a very powerful trick.

But this time, with AOTC, we have less expectation, and it seemed to me that this man was talking in quite an intelligent manner. He wasn't going ballistic over anything, he doesn't do a Harry Knowles "OH-MY-GOD" or anything like that, it seems he genuinely appreciated what he saw.
If he was going "OH-MY-GOD" in every sentence, then I would question the integrity of the review.

Let's face it though - There's been good word around Episode II. Perhaps the trailers have been a let down, but what I have seen, seems to be a lot more atmospheric and much more dynamic, which is exactly what Star Wars should be.

[Dumb-Fokker-**]

There is another imprtant factor here - most people want this film to bring the Star Wars feeling back to Star Wars. Moreso than the people who wanted TPM to be great, I think. Either way, we can only wait.

[Horror whore]

Would someone be kind enough to post Ain't It Cool's review of AOTC...? The website wont download for me..

[Dumb-Fokker-**]

Yeah, it isnt working for me either. I get the big 504.


***OK, I got it to work this time. Here ya go.***

STAR WARS EPISODE TWO: ATTACK OF THE CLONES early cut review
I saw Star Wars Episode Two: Attack of the Clones hours ago. The ‘how’ of that will be a thing of mystery buried in a passed piece of paper from my book signing with a hotel, a room number and a time listed upon it. You don’t want to know about that room or the person(s) in that room, you want to know about Episode Two.
Jar Jar Binks. Jar Jar has a 15 second StepInFetchIt shuffle speak routine he does as he goes to first let Obi Wan Kenobi and Anakin Skywalker into the Amidala’s quarters that is so offensively awful, that it will not only make you recoil in horror, but it will remind you of all of the worst aspects of his character from THE PHANTOM MENACE. I wanted to burn the film, destroy, maim and murder it at this stage. I was steeling myself from the impending incompetence, the horror of my childhood being molested. I was prepared to have a very bad time.
I found myself not liking Anakin Skywalker at all, he’s a punk spoiled brat… A snotty nosed ego trip, that angry evil high school football quarterback that wants the head cheerleader. He whines like a Mark Hamill squealing about going to Toshi Station to get some power converters. There is much anger in him. He’s impulsive, conflicted, out of control and a mass murderer. Everytime I saw him and Natalie Portman together, I wanted to tell her to run, fly you fool. But am I not supposed to feel that way?
So did George Lucas drop the ball? Did he rape our childhood? Has he turned into nothing more than flannel wearing toy salesman without a soul or an eye for storytelling anymore? Was I disappointed to such a state that I wanted to yell and scream and break my original 12 inch Boba Fett and defecate upon it in a ritualistic purging of all that was once sacred to my childhood?
To answer all of those questions…. THANK GOD NO!!! Lucas succeeds with the film beyond my wildest dreams.
I was scared and thrilled to be watching Episode 2. The entire time I was in that hotel room, I was convinced that agents of Lucasfilm were going to knock down the doors and I knew I was being set up for a fall. I mean, it isn’t possible to see STAR WARS early. I know that, but there I was watching it. Listening to the sounds of drunk SXSW revelers falling into the door outside.
After about 20 minutes of that awareness everything but the film ceased to exist. The lights in the room dimmed in my mind. The person(s) in the room shrank like Scott Carey into the microverse. Everything about me was concentrating upon the film. The movie was not complete. There were moments where the effects were quite rough, but the work that was finished, was beyond reproach.
How do I explain the success of ATTACK OF THE CLONES? First, I must say that this film makes THE PHANTOM MENACE a better film. In fact, I would have to say that not only does it do that, but suddenly you will realize with horror, exactly why Jar Jar Binks is in the series at all. Upon first viewing, in less than ideal circumstances, I must say that I feel that this is by far the most entertaining Star Wars film to date. It may not have that innocent sense of wonder for the first film. It doesn’t have that sense of intimacy that EMPIRE STRIKES BACK had, or that film’s desperation. However, it also doesn’t have the trivial frivolity of JEDI or MENACE. ATTACK OF THE CLONES is a turning point in the saga. The point of no return.
I love this film desperately. I want to continually watch it for about a week with my best friends. I want to see it digitally projected with sternum shaking sound. I want to watch as friends discover the twists that Palpatine/Sidious/Dooku have in store for us. I want to have the conversations about what this all means, the speculative conversations about how these elements will play out in the final chapter of the prequels.
What is great about the film?
Obi Wan Kenobi / Ewan McGregor. He just owns the role now. There is a moment in the Cantina/Sports Bar on the surface level of Coruscant, where he and Anakin have chased an assassin. As they enter this packed sci-yuppie-scum club, they realize they can’t seem to be able to see ‘the assassin’ anymore. Anakin wants to rush in, tear the place apart looking for the suspect. Obi Wan tells him to slow down or something then turns to head in a different direction, Anakin asks him, "Where you going?" to which Kenobi dryly responds, "To get something to drink." Kenobi is just that calm about things. He is the king of cool. He’ll get his suspect, but he’s going to get a drink first. Priorities. I was reminded of him telling Luke to let go and to trust his feelings. He doesn’t repeat that here, he simply lets go and trusts his feelings. We see it as an action, a path he chose. Then when he gets to that bar, leaning on it, sipping that odd drink, a drug dealer comes up to him and asks, "Wanna buy some deathsticks?" Obi Wan responds, "You don’t want to sell me death sticks." Drug dealer says, "I don’t want to sell you death sticks." "You want to go home and rethink your direction in life," Kenobi continues. "I want to go home and rethink my direction in life," the dealer says as he blankly turns and walks out of the club. Before he can get too smug about his little trick he senses the assassin behind him and he pulls the patented Obi Wan pivoting light saber at a bar strike that you’ve seen in the trailer. He gets his suspect and he’s never broke a sweat. He is the master. Kenobi is just plainly cool in the film. Watch how he handles things on Camino or the way he doesn’t betray a single thought in his conversation with Jango Fett there. He knows his game, his methods and his ways. He is confident and completely on the clock. Ewan is relaxed in the role, clearly having fun and is very very very good in the film. Contrary to Moriarty’s assertion that he would be more ‘Han Solo’ he is in fact much more Master Li Mu Bai (Chow Yun Fat from CROUCHING TIGER HIDDEN DRAGON) but without the romance.
Jango Fett – Boba Fett / Temuera Morrison – Daniel Logan -- I love this pair. I love them because they are the renegade Father and Son. They have their own set of rules, they are a self contained functioning unit. Jango wanted a son to raise his own way, that doesn’t mean he beats him and does evil things. He loves his kid. He’s training him to be a good Bounty Hunter like he is. There is very much a father/son – Master/Apprentice style thing going on here. And they have my favorite moment of the entire film, which is a tiny little moment between these two. Jango and Boba are headed to Genosia when they pick up that Kenobi is tailing them. They dive into the asteroid belt surrounding Genosia, Obi Wan trails behind them, not being lost. Jango tells Boba something like, "Prepare the sonic mines, we’ll give him…" something, I couldn’t make out… but Boba presses some buttons while doing what I can only describe as an evil giggle… a delighted giggle. Jango looks at him smiling, as if to say… "That’s my boy!" The moment is so honest and real. I’ve never seen a father – son moment like this in science fiction. Completely classic.
Anakin Skywalker - Padme Amidala / Hayden Christensen – Natalie Portman -- First Anakin is just an ass in this film. Like I said earlier, I can’t stand him. He’s like that boy in the TWILIGHT ZONE movie that has too much power and thinks about using it too much, but sometimes it goes terribly astray. Portman’s Padme in this film has mostly dropped the ‘high speak’ that she had from the first film…. Injecting into her character far more vocal variety than the droll monotone of the first film that killed the performance. Here she infuses the character with more of herself, which is a very good thing. I like that she doesn’t want to have anything to do with Anakin. That she constantly is aware of all the reasons they shouldn’t be together. Of the scandal. Of their careers. Anakin hates being told no. She can see all the reasons, but when they go through what they go through… When the emotional binding takes place between these characters through a brief adventure, a loss of a loved one, a decent into hell… When faced with certain doom, they realize that life is too short to worry about the ifs and buts… And when it happens… John Williams’ love theme kicks in. This really kicks in just as Anakin and Padme kiss before being taken out and strung up in the arena (you know the sequence when they are chained against the pillars.) It actually starts from the shot (which we see in the trailer - of the arena with all the Geonosis creatures seated and cheering - the long shot looking from high to low). It consists of maybe three instruments playing at first, classic violin, very sorrowful and warm. It almost sounds a little bit like the theme for the Incredible Hulk TV series with Lou Ferrigno. The intros are similar before other instruments join in. It also reminded me of Francis Lai’s theme from Arthur Hiller’s LOVE STORY. Although it is strikingly different from other parts in the film, IT FITS IN BEAUTIFULLY. Elegant but not soppy. Gentle but not melodramatic. Williams thinking differently (after all, a very different relationship from Han and Leia!) and succeeding. It starts to crescendo as the lovers are wheeled out into the arena (reminded me of the shot of Luke with the twin suns) - same type of crescendo. It continues through the cuts between Obi-Wan chained and them being taken over to the same place but changes into a military drum style (you know, the thumping dictatorship heavy beat - almost like the 'sacrifice has arrived'). This changes the whole tone as we realize their 'moment' has been intruded and they are in serious poodoo. The romance is handled in terms of familiarity and proximity. This is that sort of romance where one loves the other, but only at the point of an emotional precipice where the other could see that they shared that feeling and embrace it. I liked this.
Palpatine-Sidious – Count Dooku-Darth Tyrannus / Ian McDiarmid – Christopher Lee -- Wow. Ok, read no spoilers about all of this. I remember thinking that Lucas could be soft in the head for trying to fool the audience into thinking Palpatine isn’t Sidious. I mean we can see that in the credits. What the hell? Right? See that is so like a self-centered audience. To sit there and think they are the center of the universe. The Palpatine-Sidious thing from the first film… The trade dispute… All of it not only makes sense with this film, but the way it unfolds. As you see the point of the various guises and names… How Yoda and Windu sense no ‘disturbance’ around Palpatine… There are reasons for these things… Just because you don’t know them yet, doesn’t mean Lucas doesn’t know what he’s doing… Upon seeing this film, seeing how he handles these two characters being 4 characters… It is genius. Compelling Machiavellian positioning and deception. There are points in this film where I wanted to scream at the screen and say, "Palpatine is an evil Sith Lord! They’re conspiring to destroy the Republic from within!" That’s when Christopher Lee essentially tells Obi Wan the same thing… My god. The evil. The evil of using the truth, knowing it could only be interpreted as being a deception and a lie. The Devil uses truth to betray mankind, because he is expected to lie… and the truth sounds better, but will never be believed. Just wait till you see how the Death Star plays into this… You’ll friggin die! FANTASTIC.
Yoda-Dooku fight… HOLY GOD! Right now there is a lot of speculation about Yoda with lightning. It is on one of the soundtrack covers. When you look at that. When people described the ball of lightning in Yoda’s hands from ShoWest, I thought they were insane. I thought only the bad guys did that. When I saw the film, well… I can tell you exactly how that moment plays out. So far as I have seen that hasn’t leaked and it isn’t a huge spoiler. When Yoda and Dooku first set up to go at it, Dooku hurls lightning at Yoda… Yes, Chris Lee’s character is that strong. Perhaps the strongest character with the force I have ever seen in Star Wars history. He attacks Yoda with lightning, Yoda captures it, twirls it around, balls it up and redirects it back at Lee. When I saw this, I screamed like a little girl. I mean it was like Uncle Tony grabbed my pantied ass. I jumped about 12 feet up in the air and squealed. WHAT A THRILL! The Yoda – Dooku fight is astonishing. I can not emphasize that enough. I have been thinking for quite some time that there was no way on earth that Yoda with a light saber could look cool. Folks, not only does it look cool, but there will be a collective scream of HOLY SHIT when what happens happens. Yoda’s fighting style is… well let’s just say he could kick all your asses. Oh and by the way, Williams’ DUEL OF THE FATES was nothing in comparison to this. Remember Vader vs Luke in EMPIRE… How overwhelmingly powerful Vader felt in comparison to Luke. Remember how weak Vader felt in comparison to the Emperor? Now imagine someone with The emperor’s powers in a full on battle with a master. Here towers of metal are torn asunder with the power of the force. The ceiling ripped apart. Seemingly unlimited strength with the force. You will quiver, shake and scream. You are warned.
You have to understand something in going into this film. What you have seen in Star Wars movies before were skirmishes… incidents… Remember, The Battle of Hoth was small, a minor hiccup. In ATTACK OF THE CLONES, you have the first REAL Star War. It isn’t a space battle, but you understand the scale of things. The size and scope of a MAJOR OFFENSIVE. And unlike in PHANTOM MENACE, where Lucas decided to cut up the action by trying to intercut three consecutive arenas of battle, here he portrays the action linearly… basically following Obi Wan and Anakin and Padme… who all basically stick together, with Padme taking a roll in some sand to miss out on the Dooku battle.
After the film was finished playing I was just beside myself with glee.
Right now it is a very interesting time for Star Wars fandom. PHANTOM MENACE polarized the audience into the faithful and those that felt it had all gone wrong. That everything was doomed. With the introduction of MATRIX and LORD OF THE RINGS into fan circles, there began to be a real angry mix. Fights, screamings and hurling of ‘love it or leave it’ style rhetoric.
Watching the trailers for STAR WARS: ATTACK OF THE CLONES in theaters, the audiences seemed muted in comparison to the delightful screams of approval from the SPIDER-MAN trailers.
You know those guys that have been camping up in Portland? The experience they are going to have in the theater upon that first showing… They will be so completely happy.
Now the cut I saw was still a bit rough around the edges, but folks… I can’t wait to see this on the big screen complete. To see what gets cut, what gets changed, what I notice when watching this movie the way Lucas meant for people to see it.
The source(s) that showed it to me were tired of all my LORD OF THE RINGS stuff. They were tired of all the rhetoric about Tolkien, all the focus I had on LORD OF THE RINGS. They wanted someone outside of the ranch, outside of the ‘circle’, someone that seemed to be straying from the fold to see what it was that Lucas had done. What Lucas has done, is to make a film that is so relentlessly entertaining and thrilling, that there will be no movie this summer that can stand against it. This is it.
This movie is the real deal. It is smart, beautiful (god digital photography is the glory and the future of the world of film, the palette is strikingly dramatically colorful), thrilling and electrical. Essentially it is a pure action adventure science fiction fantasy with a touch of romance. Line up now. This Star Wars is for real.
P.s. To the talkbacker concerned about Jimmy Smits... He doesn't really do anything major in this film. He is next to Palpatine though right before that amazing shot of all the Clone Troopers and those Star Destroyer things... So he's close to Palpatine, but I bet he betrays Palp in the next one (speculation) Oh, I'm off to Los Angeles, so I won't be doing talk back looking on this to answer questions, but if you come to the book signing at BOOK SOUP Tuesday at 7pm, I'll answer all NON-SPOILER QUESTIONS about Episode 2. In fact, I'll even do imitations of scenes and looks on faces. I'm so jazzed about this movie now! Can't wait to share, but not spoil!!! The gods of spies have looked out for me on this one.... That sacrificial Power Puff doll was worth it!

[This message has been edited by Dumb-Fokker-** (edited 03-18-2002).]

[ak]

Sounds alright http://www.joblo.com/ubb/wink.gif

Seriously though - That's a very positive review.

Still not completely over-excited though.

That's all I have to say for now. I'll be back tomorrow when I digest it more.....

[ColinM]

I didn't get to read the whole thing, but I will later. But what I've read is only making me more and more excited about ATOC. It does seem to me to have more credibility than the Phantom Menace advanced screening reviews for all the reasons ak has pointed out. He doesn't seem me like a guy who wants it to be good. In fact, he kinda indicated that he didn't even like Return of the Jedi or The Phantom Menace.

Hope he's right....

[Dumb-Fokker-**]

Go dig up Harrys initial review of TPM, before everyone started bashing it. It is so similar that I completely discounted it before I was even finished. But I do have hopes for this film now.

[ak]

It is indeed true that Harry Knowles is far too much of a geeky fan-boy type to even take what he says all that seriously - After a day of thinking about his "review" (Whenever I refer to the word "review" in Harry terms, I put inverted commas around it, cause none of his reviews are any good), I'm willing to think that what he says is personal hype, but I just can't help but be thankful that it's positive.

The major problem with the internet, in my opinion, is that it's full of negative thinkers. Far, far too many - And the year and a couple of months that I've been with this site, i've noticed the odd few http://www.joblo.com/ubb/wink.gif. It doesn't hurt to think positively in a while, even if what has come before (in Star Wars terms) wasn't all that good.

I'm looking forward to this film more and more now.
It'll, without doubt, be the biggest film of the year, and hopefully the most entertaining.

[Dumb-Fokker-**]

I have no doubt it will be entertaining, but Armageddon and Resident Evil were also entertaining. I think I will enjoy Episode II in the same sense. .....hopefully

[Lazycouch]

Well, Harry Knowles is a lowlife who never moved out of his parent's basements, so his opinions lack credibility.

However, I will take notice of several positive word of mouth on the script. Maybe there is hope.

[ak]

I thought I'd bump this one up, seeing how someone has started another topic in the same vein, which is unnecessary, cause this one started some good discussion...

[BitchTits]

ak, we're entitled to our own opinions, and I respect yours, but may I ask exactly why you didn't appreciate the trailer for Episode 2?

I thought it blew the first one right out of the water. Granted, it didn't raise the hairs on my neck like the first trailer did though.

I think the main reason why the TPM trailer excited everyone was that for years and years people have been anticipating the prequal trilogy that Lucas had promised them. They were eager to find out what a 90's Star Wars movie would look like. When they first saw the trailer, their anticipation for the movie was one of the reasons everybody got excited. And the fact that the trailer itself was pretty damn cool only helped to increase the hype.

Well, everybody has seen Episode 1 and most of them were let down by it. We all know what to expect (for the most part) in Episode 2, so that's why the trailer didn't generate an "OH MY GOD!" kinda excitement from people.

[ak]

BitchTits - I think it had more to do with the cutting of the trailer and the music they used.
There was no suspensful build up to the final pieces of the trailer. Afterall, seeing hundreds of Jedi in battle should get the blood pumping, but because of the flat music and terrible pace, I just went "oh", instead of "wow".

Perhaps if they had used slices of Duel Of The Fates in the trailer, instead of that music from Return Of The Jedi then, perhaps, it might have helped.

Incidentally, I watched this trailer in college where they have digital connection on the computers (I have a shoddy 56 k modem here at home) and quite a few people gathered round the computer to watch it - They too were un-impressed. Everyone thought it looked too "digital", which is quite correct.

It is amazing to think, actually, that out of all the stunning imagery in the trailer the most brilliant part, for me, was the inclusion of Palpatine's line to Anakin:

"I see you becoming the greatest of all Jedi, Anakin".

The way that line was delievered made it absolutely my most favourite line out of the entire four films, thus far. The meaning behind it makes it so powerful. Brilliant.

[Dumb-Fokker-**]

Even better than "Yipeeeeeeeeee!", ak??