Wooden Acting
Actors looking for an intensely collaborative relationship with an encouraging director do not seek out George Lucas. Too often, the Menace cast works independently of one another — they deliver a hodgepodge of unsatisfying (and unconvincing) performances that vary wildly in intensity and emotional engagement. Only Ewan McGregor, as young Obi-Wan, seems to be invested in his role: he exudes a calm strength that makes a believable connection to Alec Guinness’ wonderful portrayal.
WHAT OTHERS SAID:
“…And the kid players, though adorable, perform wretchedly enough to engender suspicions of casting-room nepotism. Nobody’s to blame: Imagine the whole troupe’s despair upon realizing they’ve been hired as straight men to a crowd of animatronic Jerry Lewises.”
—Greg Burk, L.A. Weekly, May 19, 1999
