Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

A moody teen and his crush start a galactic war because they can’t keep their feelings in check, all while a secret army of identical dudes is being grown in a bathtub somewhere.

🍿 Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones: Detailed Plot Synopsis

Assassination Attempt and Investigation

Ten years after the events of Episode I, Senator Padmé Amidala narrowly escapes an assassination attempt upon her return to Coruscant. The Jedi Council assigns Obi-Wan Kenobi and his apprentice Anakin Skywalker to protect her. During the night, another attempt is made by bounty hunter Zam Wesell, leading to a thrilling chase through Coruscant’s cityscape.

Discovery of the Clone Army

Obi-Wan’s investigation leads him to Kamino, a remote planet where he discovers a massive clone army being created for the Republic. He learns that a Jedi Master named Sifo-Dyas, believed to be long dead, commissioned the army. The clones are based on the template of bounty hunter Jango Fett, further deepening the mystery.

Anakin and Padmé’s Forbidden Love

While Obi-Wan investigates, Anakin escorts Padmé back to Naboo for her safety. During their time together, Anakin confesses his love for Padmé, a love forbidden by the Jedi Code. Their bond deepens despite the complications and the looming threat of war.

Tragedy on Tatooine

Haunted by visions of his mother in danger, Anakin travels with Padmé to Tatooine. He discovers that his mother, Shmi, was kidnapped by Tusken Raiders. Upon finding her, he’s too late to save her, and she dies in his arms. Consumed by rage, Anakin brutally slaughters the entire Tusken village, including women and children, marking a significant step towards his fall to the dark side.

The Separatist Threat and Battle of Geonosis

Obi-Wan follows Jango Fett to Geonosis and discovers that Count Dooku and the Separatists are building a droid army. He is captured, but manages to send a warning to Anakin. When Anakin and Padmé go to rescue Obi-Wan, they too are captured and sentenced to execution in a gladiatorial arena. Mace Windu arrives with a team of Jedi to rescue them, leading to a massive battle between the Jedi and the Separatist droid army. Yoda arrives with the newly discovered clone army, turning the tide and beginning the Clone Wars.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Anakin Skywalker (Hayden Christensen): A young, powerful Jedi Padawan struggling with his emotions and forbidden love, leading to his eventual fall to the Dark Side.
• Padmé Amidala (Natalie Portman): A senator and former queen of Naboo who falls into a forbidden romance with Anakin, despite the Jedi Code.
• Obi-Wan Kenobi (Ewan McGregor): A wise Jedi Master who mentors Anakin while investigating a conspiracy that threatens the Republic.
• Count Dooku (Christopher Lee): A former Jedi Master turned Sith Lord who leads the Separatist movement against the Republic.
• Palpatine (Ian McDiarmid): The Supreme Chancellor of the Galactic Republic, secretly Darth Sidious, who manipulates events to gain ultimate power.
• Jango Fett (Temuera Morrison): A skilled bounty hunter and the genetic template for the clone army of the Republic.
• Yoda (Frank Oz): A wise and powerful Jedi Master who serves on the Jedi Council, sensing the growing darkness.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Obi-Wan: “Why do I get the feeling you’re going to be the death of me?” – Obi-Wan says this to Anakin, foreshadowing Anakin’s eventual turn to the dark side and the conflict between them.
• Anakin: “I don’t like sand. It’s coarse and rough and irritating and it gets everywhere.” – Anakin awkwardly attempts to express his feelings to Padmé on Naboo.
• Yoda: “Begun, the Clone War has.” – Yoda somberly acknowledges the start of the Clone Wars after arriving with the clone army on Geonosis.
• Anakin: “I slaughtered them like animals!” – Anakin confesses to Padmé that he killed all the Tusken Raiders, including the women and children, after his mother’s death.
• Count Dooku: “I’m looking forward to this. My powers have doubled since the last time we met, Count.” – Count Dooku says this to Anakin during their duel.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $115,000,000
• Domestic Gross: $310,676,740
• Worldwide Gross: $653,780,724

💥 Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones Reviews

Personal Review

I have a soft spot for Attack of the Clones. The mystery surrounding the clone army and Obi-Wan’s investigation was something that really stood out for me. The battle of Geonosis was pretty awesome, and seeing Yoda with a lightsaber for the first time was so cool! However, I have to admit that Anakin and Padme’s love story was pretty corny and awkward to watch. It still holds a special place in my Star Wars journey, and I always enjoy revisiting this chapter in the saga.

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Star Wars fans”
  • “Sci-fi enthusiasts”
  • “Those interested in action and adventure films”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Sci-Fi Violence”
  • “Some Intense Scenes”
  • “Thematic Elements (Loss and Revenge)”

Professional Reviews

• Empire Magazine: “Attack of the Clones is visually stunning, packed with action, and expands the Star Wars universe in intriguing ways. However, the stilted dialogue and Anakin and Padme’s romance makes the movie as a whole lack the emotional punch it needs.
• The New York Times: “While the visual effects are impressive, the film suffers from a weak script and unconvincing performances. The romantic subplot is particularly jarring, and the overall experience fails to capture the magic of the original trilogy. The action sequences are fun, but the story leaves much to be desired.
• Variety: “George Lucas delivers a visually spectacular and action-packed episode that expands the Star Wars saga in exciting new directions. The film’s exploration of political intrigue and the seeds of the Clone Wars are thrilling and engaging, making Attack of the Clones a worthwhile addition to the franchise.

Audience Reactions

The Geonosis arena battle was epic!: The visual effects and action sequences are a blast to watch!

Yoda with a lightsaber? Awesome!: The film expands the Star Wars universe and explores the Clone Wars in a visually appealing way.

Overall Consensus: Attack of the Clones is a visually stunning and action-packed film that is part of the Star Wars Saga. While it has it’s shortcomings regarding dialogue and romance, most viewers love it for it’s contribution to the Star Wars expanded lore.

Awards

1. Visual Effects Society Awards (Outstanding Effects in a Science Fiction Film)- 2003

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “The entire ‘aggressive negotiations’ conversation during the dinner scene between Anakin and Padmé was ad-libbed by Hayden Christensen and Natalie Portman at George Lucas’ request because he was unhappy with the romantic dialogue he had written.”
• “Actors Jerome St. John Blake, Hassani Shapi, Gin Clarke, Khan Bonfils, Michaela Cottrell and Dipika O’Neill Joti are credited for playing the same Jedi Council members as in Episode I, although they did not film any new footage for Episode II. Instead, the Jedi Council scene uses recycled footage from Episode I.”

🖥️ How to Watch Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones?

Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones is widely available to rent or purchase on various platforms. You can find it on streaming services such as Disney+, where it is included with a subscription. Additionally, it’s available for rent or purchase on platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Google Play Movies, Apple TV, and Vudu. Check your preferred platform for current pricing and availability.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones, you might like these similar films:

• Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith (2005): Direct sequel and continuation of Anakin’s descent to the dark side, expanding on the Clone Wars.
• Gattaca (1997): Explores themes of genetic engineering and the implications of a society built on manufactured beings, similar to the clone army.
• Stargate (1994): Shares a sense of adventure and exploration of new worlds through a portal, similar to Obi-Wan’s investigation across different planets.
• Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets (2017): Features visually stunning alien worlds and epic space battles, with a romance at the center of the story.
• Battlestar Galactica (2004-2009): Explores themes of war, political intrigue, and the struggle for survival in a galaxy in conflict, echoing the Clone Wars.

🛒 Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones Related Products

• LEGO Star Wars: Attack of the Clones Yoda’s Jedi Starfighter 75360: This detailed LEGO set replicates Yoda’s Jedi Starfighter from ‘Attack of the Clones,’ This set is a blast from the past, and is perfect for both kids and adult collectors.
• Star Wars: Attack of the Clones (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack) [2 LP]: Immerse yourself in the music of Attack of the Clones with this complete digital soundtrack. Enjoy listening to the iconic scores from composer John Williams, including “Across the Stars”.
• Star Wars The Black Series Count Dooku Force FX Lightsaber: Featuring realistic light and sound effects, this Force FX lightsaber is perfect for cosplayers and collectors. The curved hilt and bright red blade will transport you to the heart of the duel on Geonosis.
• Star Wars: Attack of the Clones [4K Ultra HD]: Experience ‘Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones’ in stunning 4K Ultra HD. Relive the epic battles and memorable moments with enhanced visual clarity and vibrant colors. Enjoy immersive sound and a pristine viewing experience.

🎧 Soundtrack

Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “Across the Stars (Love Theme from Attack of the Clones)” – performed by John Williams
• “Jango’s Escape” – performed by John Williams
• “The Arena” – performed by John Williams

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

Jango Fett’s ORIGINAL Death Scene! Is This BETTER? #starwars #jangofett #macewindu #shorts

Ever wondered what Jango Fett’s death scene could have looked like? This video shows us an extended and more brutal version that didn’t make it into the final cut. As a fan of the character, I find it fascinating to see how they originally planned to end his story.

How Star Wars Attack Of The Clones Should Have Ended

If you’re a fan of ‘How It Should Have Ended’ videos, you’ll love this one on Attack of the Clones. It’s full of clever humor and creative twists that will make you laugh and think about the movie in a new light.

Everything Wrong With Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones Part 1

Love or hate CinemaSins, their ‘Everything Wrong With’ videos are always entertaining. This one on Attack of the Clones is no exception, as it hilariously points out all the things that make the movie so frustrating and yet so enjoyable.

WHAT IF STAR WARS EPISODE II WERE GOOD? (Belated Media)

If you’re curious about how Attack of the Clones could have been a better movie, this video is a must-watch. Belated Media takes a critical look at the film and offers some well-reasoned suggestions for how it could have been improved.

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