It seems from the more popular comments that people want to believe that this episode is a vindication of Lucas' genius. Firstly let me say that Lucas' genius needs no vindication but if it did - this film would not be it. It is a classic example of the proverbial curate's egg - absolutely breathtaking in its scope and vision in parts, and agonisingly, excruciatingly unbearable in parts. However, it really had to achieve just three main things, 1) marry the storyline up with A New Hope - achieved, 2) appease the die-hards - apparently achieved, and 3) create an engaging film which is capable of standing independently - highly questionable. The concepts and ideas tend to work well, the 'big' scenes and fights are pretty spectacular but the personal journeys of the major protagonists and the inter-personal and particularly the romantic elements were abysmal. I know I'm not the first to say this but I think Lucas is spectacular at what he does well. Unfortunately character development and romance are not part of his incredible repertoire. Just my opinion - no doubt some will agree, others call me crazy.
