Review: Star Wars - Clone Wars Animated Series
Cartoon Network Presents Another TV Animation of the Clone Wars
Oct 3, 2008
Lucasfilm and Genndy Tartakovsky animated one story of the Clone Wars back in 2003 as a segue between Star Wars Episode Two and Episode three. Now George Lucas has another story to tell about the years in between the two Star Wars movies, and Cartoon Network once again has the privilege of airing it.
Yep, It's Another Animated Clone Wars Series
The first animated series seemed to bridge the gaps between Episodes Two and Three quite well, but George Lucas isn't finished telling his story quite yet. Whereas the first series was roughly a two hour movie broken up into three-to-five minute installments, this one has complete thirty minute episodes and is set to run as a full season.
Each episode stands alone and tells a story of a particular battle during the War. Lucas' recent Clone Wars movie was one very long episode of the TV series. However, those who did not go see the movie (from the sound of the reviews, that's probably for the best) will not have a problem following along with the TV series.
That said, those who did not see Episodes Two and Three of the movies will have great difficulty in catching up. Clone Wars does not introduce characters or the background plot. Anakin's paduwon is also not introduced, but as long as the viewer saw the movie trailers, one will not have a problem discerning who she is. For those who did see the original animated series, they may be a little delighted to see one character cross over: Asajj Ventress. (Now, will Anakin take her down this time around as well?)
Clone Wars Fitting to Star Wars Name, Mostly
Clone Wars feels just like any other Star Wars movie, that is, if the movies were made in CGI. The script for the most part is witty and insightful, and the fight scenes have the same clever and comedic charm. Having Samuel L. Jackson, Christopher Lee and Anthony Daniels lend their voices to their characters helps Clone Wars keep some of this charm. In addition, every fight still feels as intense, even though it's known that Yoda or Anakin will make it away safely.
Unfortunately, Anakin's paduwon, Ahsoka, does not seem to fit in with the mold. Her character almost feels forced, like the writers were trying to find a way to wedge in Anakin having a paduwon. She's a slightly more annoying version of Anakin's younger self from Episode Two, only she doesn't have a by-the-code Master like Obi Wan Kenobi to tone her down.
Probably Only for Star Wars Fanatics
Even though Cartoon Network aired more promos for Clone Wars than it has for any other TV show on its network, most likely the only people who will loyally watch the show are the same ones who loyally watched the first animated series. It takes a big Star Wars fan to commit to anything outside of the movies, and since this series does not cater to the unfamiliar, the probability for the viewership to consist of only big Star Wars fans is quite high.
But that may be all who George Lucas wants to watch his new piece. If he didn't snag new followers with the first three movies, he isn't going to snag them now. Perhaps this is his outlet to give his hardcore fans some insight into his overall original plan and plot for Star Wars. Or he just can't let go of one of this most successful franchises. Either way, Star Wars fans will find it entertaining.
Star Wars: The Clone Wars TV series airs every Friday night on Cartoon Network at 9 p.m. EST.
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