I’m revisiting this before watching OBI-WAN KENOBI. It's hard to say whether I find THE PHANTOM MENACE more objectionable or ATTACK OF THE CLONES slightly less so; either way, I didn’t notice the (extensive) problems with episode II as much this time—leaving Jar Jar out of it makes a huge difference, thankfully. Nevertheless, there are just too many issues to list in one go. The dialogue is even more problematic here, largely because of the uncomfortable romantic plot between Anakin and Padmé. It contains some of the worst writing I've ever seen on film. Normally I’m inclined to defend acting performances, but Christensen really doesn't fare well at all in this movie. There are a few more lightsaber battles, but none measure up to Maul’s fight in TPM. Once again, depending too much on computer-generated imagery and characters detracts from the action sequences, even though the visuals have improved overall. The music helps most scenes seem better than they actually are. The script is full of logical flaws, but what bothers me more is how poorly the all-knowing Jedi are portrayed. From their seeming obliviousness to the invented, illogical rules governing their beliefs, I’m really not sure what Lucas was trying to achieve. As always, the editing is a problem; ATTACK OF THE CLONES feels longer than it needs to be. Interesting, crucial moments are trimmed too short, while boring scenes that explain things drag on for far too long. There's probably a decent film buried in this somewhere—I just can’t locate it. Still... Its strengths somehow register better now. I think most of the action is quite good. Anakin saving his mother stands out as one of the best moments in the prequels. And, again, less Jar Jar. It's possible that it has swapped places with THE PHANTOM MENACE at the bottom of my list. Rating: D+

Source on TMDB