Watch The Prequels Strike Back... Strikes Back

The Prequels Strike Back... Strikes Back is a fascinating and thought-provoking documentary created by the Ministry of Cinema and directed by Bradley Weatherholt and Mike Klimo. It is a sequel to the 2015 documentary, The Prequels Strike Back: A Fan’s Journey, which examined the Star Wars prequel trilogy and its reception by the fandom. This time, however, the focus is on how the prequels were received by the mainstream media and how they gradually gained a more positive reputation over time.

The documentary starts by exploring the impact that the original trilogy had on popular culture and how it created an enormous fan base. It then delves into the arrival of the prequels and how they were initially received by both the fans and the media. Critics and fans alike were disappointed with the prequel trilogy, citing wooden acting, convoluted storylines, and excessive use of CGI as major flaws.

Even George Lucas, the creator of the Star Wars franchise, acknowledges the negative reception to the prequels. In the documentary, he admits that he was trying to make the films for a new generation of fans, but that he may have lost sight of the original fanbase. However, as the documentary progresses, it becomes clear that the negative reception to the prequels was not entirely justified.

The filmmakers, through interviews with film historians, critics, and fans, argue that the prequels were ahead of their time in terms of storytelling and technical achievement. They claim that the prequels were the first major blockbuster films to use entirely digital cinematography, and that the storylines were much more complex and nuanced than many gave them credit for. The filmmakers also point out how the prequels tackled critical themes like corruption, power, and politics, issues that were far removed from the original trilogy's straightforward good versus evil theme.

The documentary also touches on how the negative reception to the prequels led to an environment where fans felt ostracized for their love of the films. Many fans experienced bullying and ridicule for liking the prequels, leading some to hide their passion for the franchise. But as time went on, attitudes towards the prequels began to shift.

The documentary showcases how this shift in attitude was partly caused by a younger generation of fans who grew up with the prequels, with nostalgia and the realization that the prequels have intrinsic value all on their own. Fans began to recognize that the prequels presented a nuanced and compelling take on the Star Wars universe that was worthy of appreciation.

The documentary also notes how media outlets, including cinema scholars and critics, have developed a newfound appreciation for the prequels and their contributions to filmmaking. The prequels' use of digital cinematography and groundbreaking special effects is seen as revolutionary, even now, as the industry moves further into digital territory.

Bradley Weatherholt and Mike Klimo's direction is executed perfectly, providing deep insights for both Star Wars fans and those who want to know more about the film industry's evolution. The interviews with a wide range of people, such as Lucasfilm alumni and authors, the director's thorough research, and the impeccable execution have created a well-rounded and immersive documentary with the potential to shift audience viewpoints.

Overall, The Prequels Strike Back... Strikes Back is an engrossing exploration of popular culture and how it shapes our views of art. The documentary is a reminder of how nuanced and thoughtful the prequels were and is a worthwhile watch for anyone interested in the franchise or the film industry regardless of their level of fandom. The documentary offers a fresh and refreshing perspective on a corner of the franchise that was previously considered the black sheep of Star Wars, breathing fresh life into a discussion around everyone's favorite galaxy far, far away.