Star Wars: In defence of the prequels from 1999 to 2005

The Star Wars prequels (1999 to 2005) may have introduced the magic of Star Wars to a new generation.

For many though they were a massive disappointment that almost ruined the memory of the original films.

Criticised for the complex plot, bad acting and introduction of characters like Jar Jar Binks, they've been written off by many as an irrelevance.

But we're here to say that there are some redeeming features that Star Wars fans would do well to remember.

*There are spoilers here if you haven't watched the prequels yet*

The Duel

Sith Lord Darth Maul and his double ended lightsaber

The final duel in Star Wars Episode 1: The Phantom Menace was epic stuff.

Acrobatic Sith Lord Darth Maul wielding a double ended lightsaber taking on Obi Wan Kenobi and Qui-Gon Jinn at the same time.

A mean looking weapon, an incredibly dramatic soundtrack and emotional ending make for one the best fight scenes of the franchise.

It's a scene that all Star Wars fans should be proud of.

Count Dooku

British actor Christopher Lee as Count Dooku. He also played Dracula and Saruman from Lord of the Rings during his long career

The intimidating Sith Lord was the main antagonist in Star Wars Episode 2: Attack of the Clones.

His story as a once respected Jedi Master who's fallen to the dark side had a real Shakespearian edge to it that showed just what the Jedi were up against.

Played by legendary British actor Christopher Lee, Count Dooku's betrayal felt personal and real.

A proper villain played by a proper actor, Count Dooku is a character that deserves to be part of the Star Wars franchise.

Order 66

Obi Wan Kenobi manages to escape Order 66

The moment the Jedi were stabbed in the back and nearly wiped out completely.

There are emotional scenes in Star Wars Episode 3: Revenge of the Sith when soldiers of the Republic turn on their Jedi commanders.

The unsuspecting Jedi die without knowing why or what's gone wrong thanks to the deception of the evil Sith Lords.

Another great, if upsetting, moment that wouldn't have seen the light of day on the silver screen if it wasn't for the prequels.

Jango Fett

The hitman was cloned to produce countless stormtroopers for the Republic

The galaxy's deadliest bounty hunter.

Having the man with the best jump pack skills in Star Wars in the prequels gave fans of the originals an insight into the early days of Boba Fett his son.

Boba Fett plays a key role in the later films and is a cult favourite character.

His father's death scene in Star Wars Episode 2: Attack of the Clones makes it an emotional tug at the heart strings and makes us realise why Boba turns out the way he does.

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