Make no mistake, Clone Wars is honest-to-goodness authentic Star Wars. The animated series takes place between Episode II, Attack of the Clones and Episode III, Revenge of the Sith. If the feature films covers the beginning and end of the war, Clone Wars depicts the actual battles and events that made heroes into legends. Don't expect too much character development, as the episodes tend to be driven more by flat-out action than by dialogue (which can be a good thing, considering some Star Wars dialogue). We see such familiar faces as Obi-Wan Kenobi, Yoda, and Mace Windu in combat, and we meet the elite Arc clone troopers plus new Jedi--the amphibious Kit Fisto and two women, Luminara Unduli and Barriss Offee. We also see a little more development of Anakin--showing off the best pilot skills in the army, defying Obi-Wan, and engaging in a deadly duel with Sith apprentice Asajj Ventress. But just when it's clear that the Separatist droid armies are no match for a Jedi, the tide begins to turn with the introduction of the menacing General Grievous, who plays a crucial part in Episode III. The cast mostly consists of veteran voice actors, but Anthony Daniels does appear as C-3PO.
Clone Wars was created by Genndy Tartakovsky, whose resume includes such stylish series as Samurai Jack, Dexter's Laboratory, and The Powerpuff Girls, and the program won a 2004 Emmy for Outstanding Animated Program (For Programming One Hour or More). These 20 episodes, which played on the Cartoon Network, can be viewed as a seamless 69-minute whole or as individual chapters. DVD features include two commentary tracks, a making-of featurette, video game and Episode III trailers, and an Xbox playable demo of the stealth game Republic Commando. If you're a fan who can't wait for Episode III, Clone Wars is essential viewing. --David Horiuchi
Fun cartoons for Star Wars nuts! Gendy Tartakovsky's interpretation of the 'Star Wars' mythology is faithful to Lucas' original creations and injects a good deal more energy in each segment that seemed to largely elude the official prequels. Actually, watching the cartoons filled in a lot of blanks that Lucas himself appeared to have left hanging from 'Revenge of the Sith' and 'Clone Wars' brings the story together neatly. This first installment is probably my favourite by a shade and it's highly enjoyable watching the Jedi leading... more info
At last - great Star Wars cartoons! A brilliant DVD because of the superb cartoons - there are 20 three and four-minute cartoons that run together as one seamless 60+ minute animated movie. If you're any kind of Star Wars fan, buy it now.
Kinetic Star Wars fun THE STORY:
The Clone Wars rage across the galaxy and everywhere, from Dantooine to Mon Calamari, the Jedi are called on to lead the forces of the Republic. Obi-Wan Kenobi is tasked with leading an army in a strike against a Separatist stronghold, whilst Anakin Skywalker finds himself the target of a Dark Jedi assassin. WHAT'S GOOD:
These cartoons, which can be watched as short vignettes or as a single movie, do a great job of capturing the dynamic visual element of the Star Wars movies, be... more info
