So I finally saw Episode III

[Alex]

traci: here's where I separate from the rest of the crowd: Empire Strikes Back is the only movie of the six that I think is much good. Star Wars was fun, but I find it impossible to watch any longer now that the flush of discovery has worn off. Return of the Jedi had some very good elements but shot itself in the foot by recreating the Death Star destruction and the inane teddy bear dance at the end.

Empire Strikes Back is where good story coincided with decent writing and filming. Unfortunately the four films since then indicate this was more accidental than a matter of skill. Also, I think John Williams should get about 30% of the credit for the success of Star Wars. The music was that perfectly matched that it created depth of mood where Lucas was unable to. Watch it with the music off and it loses a lot.