Darkness, pain and suffering – a tale of one man’s descent into hell in exchange for absolute power – such is the tale George Lucas promises and such is the experience he delivers.

A fan’s film, there’s so much eye candy I’m diabetic. In this instance not a problem. Since the film is hard to describe without spoilers, I’ll state it simply. Believe the hype. Believe the excitement. Believe in the Force.

The dialog and acting is soap opera grade, maybe a bit less, but that doesn’t matter. Star Wars is more than the story and toys. It’s an outlook. It’s a lesson in karma.

What works about Episode III:

1) Big questions about the characters and series are answered, some with eloquence, some with stunts and some with rocking fight sequences.

2) The effects are beyond cutting edge. Repeatedly, I caught myself thinking – Episode III pushes the envelope of cool visuals. That and the teenagers sitting near me are fighting with full size light sabers.

3) Unlike the Episode I and II, there’s no lag and the story always moves forward.

What needs improvement:

1)At the moment of truth, I expected the Emperor would demonstrate some amazing power unseen at any other time in the series and sway Anakin. We got a display of amazing skill, I just wanted more. Really the only glitch of the whole film and a forgivable one.

Verdict: Full price theater for fans. DVDs for fans. Cable for fans. Video for fans. Not a Star Wars fan? Consider this film anyway.

Be giving me my money back right now, thanks.

Verdict: Perfect for airplane viewing. Skip the headset rental.

Positive word of mouth sells movie tickets, and more buzz is better than less. But there’s buzz and then there’s BUZZZZZZZZZZZ. Diary of a Mad Black Woman is all the later and deservedly so. I can’t say enough nice things about this movie.

It’s entertaining. It’s relevant. It’s not for children. It’s fricking hysterical. It’s a must see!

What works

1) Casting – although lesser known or unknown, each actor fits their role like a stream flows over a rock. Kimberly Elise is masterful as Helen, the scorned lover. Tyler Perry owns the role of Joe and Madea ( Grandma and great uncle to Helen ). As for the evil husband, Steve Harris, everyone wanted to push him down the stairs. Bad Husband! Bad, bad, bad!

2) Screenplay – the scenario feels fresh and new. The jokes deliver. Thank you Tyler Perry!

3) Direction. Never heard of the auteur Darren Grant, but this is a career to watch.

4) Right sized budget. 5.5 million – and every dollar works for the story.

Verdict: Like dark humor? Then what are you waiting for? DVD or full price theater.

Hitch is one of those flicks I went into wanting to like, and fell in love. The premise – Hitch is a love doctor, a man who coaches gawky men through the first three critical dates with a new love. According to the gospel of Hitch, three dates and/or the first kiss is all a man has to show the woman what he’s got. Only when the love doctor meets the woman of his dreams, nothing goes right.

A good comedy, and a smart one, Hitch avoids the obvious and predictable conclusions and conflicts. It’s a bit on the physical side at points, but Will Smith keeps it fun.

What works:

1) Comedy. It’s funny. Several belly laughs.

2) Story. Writing is tight and consistent. If this was a movie written by committee, the committee worked overtime.

3) Performances are in the pocket, believable and appropriate for the role.

4) The story gives geeky guys hope.

Verdict: DVD rental, or matinee. An enjoyable date movie.