There are moments that truly define touching stones within our lives. Sometimes we celebrate them and embrace them. Other times, we would wish that they never would have taken place at all. This year marks the ten-year anniversary of a friend’s suicide for me, personally. A good portion of this past year has been a reflection process for how it has impacted me, how it’s impacted my marriage and my life as a whole. If it hadn’t been for that singular event, this podcast or website would never be what it is. It permanently changed me for the remainder of my life. For others, it’s a television show, video game or movie that ushers in that reflection. Ten years is a long time for something to happen.
That’s we find our young protagonist, Anakin Skywalker (Hayden Christensen), and mentor, Obi-Wan Kenobi (Ewan McGregor) in the sequel to 1999’s The Phantom Menace. Attack of the Clones picks up ten years after its processor as war is brewing towards the front lines. Padme (Natalie Portman), queen turned senator, is being hunted and its up to our heroes to protect her and find out why. Clones has a serious identity issue. For the opening act of the film, McGregor and Christensen, are faithfully together as mentor & mentee. Though when the plot shifts and calls for a separation, viewers are taken on this awkward character journey. There is a clear split in narrative as Christensen and Portman have their own aside as writer-director, George Lucas, poorly and forcefully attempts to create this Shakespearean forbidden love between the two characters. The dialogue between the two is horrendous in an of itself. Perhaps even more than that, though, is the delivery between the characters. These maybe some of the hardest scenes to watch not just in a Star Wars film but any film set in the science fiction or fantasy genres.
Then on the other hand, we get McGregor’s arc, who is investigating the assassination attempt on Portman. As viewers follow McGregor’s arc unfold, they are met with a fascinating subplot that eventually grows to the third act. McGregor within the confides of Clones is incredible. You can really start to see the beginning of the fan favorite take shape here within this film. McGregor is hands down - THE best part of this movie. Not only are getting to see some truly mesmerizing fight choreography but the charm of the character. His arc is pivotal for not only the film, but to the franchise.
Overall, Star Wars: Attack of the Clones, is a weak chapter to note within one of the most beloved franchises. Largely feeling like a crisis of identity. On one hand, you have this forcefully and painfully Shakespearean forbidden love arc with Hayden Christensen & Natalie Portman. Lack of chemistry, terrible writing and even worse acting – make viewers question where is the force with this one? The saving factor of the film is once again its fight choreography. Crafting some truly visually stunning sequences. On the other hand, we have Ewan McGregor – who is arguably THE strongest part of the movie. Not only engaging in some compelling storytelling and fight sequences but also is charmingly perfect for the role. The clones might attack, but so is sleep because this one is a snoozer.
RORSCHACH RATING
And more importantly, if you or someone you know is struggling with suicide, addiction, self-harm or depression - please free feel to reach out. Use any of our resources, call the suicide lifeline (1-800-273-8255) or text 741-741.
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