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Star Wars: Episode II Attack of the ClonesThe battle between good and the "Dark Side" continue in the fifth installment of the Star Wars saga. I found the movie to be entertaining, though not quite as kid friendly as "The Phantom Menace". "The Force", which I believe is the power behind the ancient Jedi religion, has become corrupted. Therefore it can no longer bring balance and peace to the universe. The result is political unrest among the Senate and war to control the many solar systems that make up the Republic. If the prophecy is true, then young Anakin Skywalker will be the only one able to bring peace back to the Republic. This is quite interesting since Anakin is an arrogant immature youth who lacks discipline and experience. His mentor, Master Jedi Obi-Wan Kenobi, has his hands full as he attempts to teach self-discipline to young Skywalker. The film has lots of wanton violence, deaths by explosions, high altitude dangers, many battle deaths and light saber action. There isn’t much in the way of sexuality, although Amidala’s wardrobe is immodest and suggestive. The movie does have some positive elements; for example, the Jedi are taught to serve others sacrificially and to show compassion. Amidala is a true servant of her people, and she is honorable and brave in her attempt to fight injustice and preserve peace. Through Anakin we see that the family bond is too powerful to be broken, and it eventually leads the youth back home to find his mother. The institution of marriage is upheld when Anakin and Amidala tie the knot. In spite of the positive elements, Christians may question what "The Force" really is. According to George Lucas, the movies Director, he put The Force in the movie to awaken spirituality in young people. Whatever the motive is, our God is not some impersonal bond of energy tapped into by a select group of individuals for the purpose of peeping into the future, sending objects flying through the air, and winning light saber battles. Jesus Christ is real, and He invites us to know Him. His works are written for all to see and know. We don’t have to wonder or guess about whether or not He loves us. He proved it once and for all on Calvary. One last point is that Anakin was given the assignment to be the lone protector of Amidala. Essentially we end up with two adolescents flying through space spending unlimited time together on secluded villas. The results are predictable. Anakin puts down his special Jedi weapon and ends up rolling over the hills on top of Amidala. It is rarely possible for two teens that are attracted to each other to spend time together without getting into trouble (see Proverbs 6:27). Especially when one of them dresses like Amidala. In my conclusion, I would like to assure that the follow-up to the Phantom Menace is quite an adventure. The effects were stunning and the locations were beautiful. But it did feel a bit awkward trying to make this into a love story. As far as "The Force" and the quest to restore balance, one must wonder if it ever had control in the first place. Anyway, since Anakin is the "chosen one", the Force had better prepare itself. They are headed to "The Dark Side" |