Top Five Attack of the Clones Moments!
Much like my last article, many people are going to question if there are really any good moments from this film. In fact, in recent years, my fans have come out and said this film is the worst film in the franchise, even more now than the Phantom Menace. However, much like the Phantom Menace, I believe there good moments and sequences, mixed in with all the other terrible stuff in the movie, which is celebrating 15 years this year.
5. TIE- ASTEROID CHASE/SPEEDER BIKE CHASE
If there is one thing that Lucas and the film crew nailed with the film is the action scenes. Granted, many people didn't like the fact that nearly every scene in the film had digital effects to the point where they practically shot on green/blue screens. However, for what Lucasfilm and ILM had to work with, I think they did a good job. Prime examples include the asteroid chase above Geonosis and the opening chase through Coruscant. Both sequences are entertaining, have great effects and music, and have a lot of drama and tension with some comedic elements to them. Granted, the asteroid chase is a not no subtle homage to the asteroid chase from the Empire Strikes Back, but I found it to be effective none the less.
4. The Droid Factory Sequence
Again, does the sequence have too much CGI in it, yes, but is it entertaining and creative, yes. Granted, many fans have taken issue with the idea of R2 being able to fly with rockets, but come on, he always has to find a way to save the day somehow. Plus, the sequence with C-3PO losing his head and being placed on a battle droid body to fight later on in the film is honestly one of, if not my favorite moment with the character.
3. Yoda vs Dooku
While there is some stakes and some creative moments, the lightsaber fight sequence in this film is kind of a let down, especially if you compare it to the climatic fights in the Phantom Menace and Revenge of the Sith. That being said, what many people consider to be the craziest and the most memorable part of the film is the final fight between Yoda and his former padawan Dooku. Many fans are divided on Yoda fighting and using a lightsaber. There are some that believe it goes against the ideas of his character while others think he should have a lightsaber because all other Jedi have one and its awesome to see. I'm kind of in the middle in regards to this fight, but not for the reason you might think. I don't mind the idea of Yoda having a lightsaber as I feel he only ever uses it in a last ditch effort if there is no other option. My thing though is that the fight itself, while it is a spectacle and funny to see, really only lasts less than twenty seconds and the fighting is all over the place. However, the interplay between the two is great and I like the display of raw force power they have before they duel.
2. Obi-Wan vs Jango Fett
While not as popular as his son, Jango Fett has become a popular character in his own right. This fight is probably the main reason for it. It's Jedi vs Mandalorian, the force vs a non force user bounty hunter. The fighting is great, the music is great and they actually fight on a real set with real water for rain. Wouldn't you know it, it makes the fighting stand out more.
Honorable mentions
Before the number one moment, I have four honorable and one dishonorable mention. The first honorable mention is the ending. It perfectly sets the tone for the dark period of the Clone Wars and the uncertainty of the galaxy moving forward. The second is the scene with Anakin and Obi-Wan in the club, "Do you wanna but some death sticks?" "You want to go home and rethink your life." The third is the conversation between Dooku and Obi-Wan in which Dooku completely spills the beans on his master.The final honorable mention is Shmi's death scene at the Tusken camp. It is easily the most emotional moment of the film and I think it is handled well.
Of course, I think you know the dishonorable mention, say it with me now..."I don't like sand. It's course, rough, and irritating, and it gets everywhere." Of course, the moment where Anakin tells Padme how he slaughtered all the Tuskens is just as bad as well.
1. The Battle of Geonosis
I mean, if I'm being honest, the long extended sequence of the battle makes the film worthy of a viewing, or at least, watch these parts. There's the fight between Anakin, Padme, and Obi-Wan against the creatures which is neat to see. Then you have the fight between the Jedi and droids, which is my personal favorite part of the film, then finally you have the proper introduction of the clones and all hell breaking loose in the main battle. People who can't stand this film have to admit there is some part of this sequence that you can like.
So yeah, is Attack of the Clones the worst film. Looking back, yeah, it kind of is. The main character is horrible and unlikeable, the romance is cheesy and poorly written to say the least, the plot and lore is interesting and kept my attention but jumbles all over the place. At least the Phantom Menace kept everything straightforward for the most part. However, I don't think objectively it's a terrible film but I don't think it's a good film either. There's enjoyment to be had but I feel you either have to lower your expectations and have the right mindset to enjoy it. I mean, hey, it's still better than the Holiday Special.
