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Viewing: 5/16 @ 10:15pm

Hype. This film has been all about hype. The reviews have all talked about the hype. Hype hype hype. How did this movie compare to the hype? Look, I'm not going to talk about hype. I'm going to tell you what I thought and whether or not you should see this. So if hype's your thing, go elsewhere.

I never grew up watching Star Wars. In fact, I hadn't watched all of episodes IV-VI until sophmore year of high school. Nonetheless, the series has this power over you. Your body leads you into the theater regardless of whether you'd like to see the new installments in the series. And so, I went to see Episode II. I was especially eager because I had read a number of positive reviews and listened to positive testaments.

Enough with the build up, this movie was great. I had my doubts, like everyone, but this film was much more cohesive than Episode I. The plot was there, the effects were great and I didn't even mind the acting and dialogue, which was typically at the top of everyone's complaint list.

These films may be epic stories, but they are pure Hollywood. The acting is not supposed to be breathtaking. I don't want or need there to be eloquent dialogue. The acting in the first three Star Wars was at the same caliber and everyone loves them. Personally, I think that everyone is just so nostalgic for the times when they were young, enjoying the first few movies and have become jaded. Episode II was good, great in fact. Screw all the pompous viewers.

Knowing Star Wars fans, I'll skip the plot synopsis, but it's worth noting that the plot holds together really well. A ton of questions are answered and there is a big setup for the next episode. It also more carefully followed the structure of The Empire Strikes Back. The first half hour was mostly setup but still had enough action to keep you entertained. It quickly built into a well organized story with drama on every front.

The question a friend posed to me was whether this film can stand on its own, which is a tough question. There is so much story attached to the Star Wars franchise it is difficult to see this film as its own entity, but when forced I can comfortably say that Episode II can hold its own. You may not enjoy it as much as a member of the 501st Legion, but you will like it. There is action, love, friendship, compassion, evil and hot saber action. What could be bad about this?

So to all of you jaded thirtysomethings, go to your message boards and cry to your friends but don't let out years of aggression on a great new installment in a kickass series.

Everyone else, give this one a shot despite what you've heard or read. If nothing else, you'll have something to talk about at the water cooler.