By Jacob Cameron

Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith is the conclusion of the much discussed prequel trilogy. A trilogy that is reviled and subsequently defended in equal measure. The consensus appears to be that Revenge of the Sith is the best of this complicated trilogy. And while there have been many jabs directed against some of the stranger moments, this is a film that has more good moments than bad. Now that the film is two decades old, it is as good a chance as any to celebrate the film for all its faults and strengths.

As mentioned, Revenge of the Sith was the final film in the Star Wars prequel trilogy. A trilogy of films that arrived with such promise and disappointment countless. With many saying that George Lucas was past his prime. The Revenge of the Sith is far from a perfect film, but the emotional impact of some scenes makes the trilogy worth a watch. Revenge of the Sith is the best Star Wars movie since Return of the Jedi.

Hayden Christensen was often mocked for some of his line deliveries in the trilogy; with Revenge being no exception. With this in mind, there are more than a few scenes where he over delivers in the acting department. The two subsequent scenes where Padme tells him she’s pregnant was well done and the nightmare he has the following night is haunting. Christiansen has a physical charisma that also deserves mention especially when it comes to the finale.

Ewan McGregor, the shining star of the trilogy, does his best work as Obi-Wan Kenobi. Natalie Portman does good work as Padme. Ian McDiarmid shows off all of his over-the-top prowess mixed in with some subtlety in the retelling of the Tragedy of Darth Plagueus. Even Christopher Lee gives his all in a limited role. There are more than a few scenes that are emotional powerhouses.

This is the most action-packed film in the trilogy. The opening space battle, the battle on Utapau where Obi-Wan kills General Grievous, and the final battle on Mustafaar are all enthralling. This is also one of the most emotional and gut-wrenching Star Wars films period. The Order 66 sequence still haunts to this day. Even the battles on the Wookiee world Kashyyyk are great.

The bad moments in this movie are still there nonetheless. The “It’s over Anakin, I have the high ground” line has become a running joke. And there has been a raging debate about a certain scene involving Anakin and Jedi younglings. Revenge of the Sith tones down some of the more unpleasant aspects of the prequels. But there are some moments of awkward dialogue and questionable CGI peppered throughout.

That being said, Revenge of the Sith has more good than bad. It is interesting considering the state of Star Wars in 2025. Considering the divisive legacy of the sequel trilogy and the varying quality of subsequent releases. Revenge of the Sith seems to have been looked at  more positively in the two decades since its release. This is far from a perfect film; but it’s an important film in the Star Wars franchise as a whole.

 4 stars