Darth Spoiler.

In a losing bout with the Dark Side, I broke down and read the full Episode III: Revenge of the Sith script last night (as well as the last chapter of the novelization.) Obviously, massive spoilers involved, none of which I’ll recount here. But I’d say that, at least on paper, the groan-quotient is lower than in Episode II, although the movie does start off somewhat ham-handedly. And, as with Episode I, there are a number of clunky “let’s take a meeting” exposition scenes throughout that I could see coming off rather badly. But, given the action setpieces herein, this should probably be the best of the prequels…or, at least, one hopes.

New from Hasbro!!

Three new Episode III TV spots aimed at kids show up online. If you find yourself with high hopes for this final installment, these should help recalibrate your expectations to accord with the other two prequels.

Deep-Sithed?

Uh oh…I’ve got a bad feeling about this. Some new Episode III footage (that doesn’t involve massive spoilers) shows up on the Offical Site in the form of two new TV spots. I’ve been letting my hopes rise for this final installment, but the dialogue and delivery in the “Tragedy” one in particular brought back some of that Clones fear and loathing.

No…there is another.

More good news emanating from the Sith: Apparently Steven Spielberg had a hand in choreographing the direction of some of Episode III‘s most crucial lightsaber duels. Even if Spielberg didn’t do all that much, the fact that Lucas looked for outside advice this time around bodes well indeed for the final installment.

IIIrd times the charm?

Fool me once, I’m the fool. Fool me twice, I’m the fool who follows him. Still, I have to admit, this muddy, Peruvian Kramervision version of the new Episode III trailer — which officially premieres tonight on Fox during The O.C — looks pretty darn good. After the bunt that was A Phantom Menace and the travesty that was Attack of the Clones, there’s no reason to expect anything at all from Revenge of the Sith. But…I sense something, a presence I’ve not felt since… Update: Multiple mirrors here. Update 2: It’s now officially up here.

Give in to your anger.

While the official Episode III trailer doesn’t premiere until next Thursday, this very well-made fan trailer will hopefully keep you until then. Whether by means fair or foul, it included some footage I’d never seen before. Update: If you’re not disturbed by its meta-ness, here’s an official teaser for the official trailer.