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Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones (2002) Screenplay

"Star Wars: Episode II - Attack of the Clones": Read The Screenplay By George Lucas & Jonathan Hales

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Have you read the "Star Wars: Episode II - Attack of the Clones" screenplay by George Lucas and Jonathan Hales? See it right here, right now! This isn't a product of fan labor, and it's not a transcript. Get ready, because you're about to immerse yourself in something fantastic.

And, for your consideration, we offer a draft script from July 2000. Free, courtesy of 8FLiX and Lucasfilm.

Let's dive into the sand-swept, politically charged, and romantically… awkward galaxy of "Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones" (2002). It’s a film that deepens the prequel saga’s lore while offering a masterclass in what to embrace—and avoid—when writing a screenplay.

Discover More About the "Star Wars: Episode II - Attack of the Clones" Screenplay

The Story Behind the Film.

Set 10 years after "The Phantom Menace," the galaxy teeters on the brink of civil war. Former Queen Padmé Amidala now serves as a senator, and Jedi Knight Obi-Wan Kenobi investigates an assassination attempt on her life. Meanwhile, Anakin Skywalker is tasked with protecting Padmé—and falls in love with her in the process.

The film culminates in the first major battle of the Clone Wars and reveals the dark manipulations of Chancellor Palpatine. Love, betrayal, and the slow slide into tyranny take center stage, building the bridge to Anakin’s tragic destiny.

Explored Themes.

1. Political Intrigue and Layered Conflict.

The script juggles Senate debates, separatist uprisings, clone armies, and Jedi philosophy. It’s complex—but sometimes convoluted.

Screenwriting takeaway:

  • Political subplots add richness but must be clear and engaging.
  • Avoid overwhelming the narrative with exposition—let stakes rise organically.

2. Romance and Emotional Authenticity.

Anakin and Padmé’s relationship is central—but often criticized for stiff dialogue and rushed development.

Screenwriting takeaway:

  • Romance must feel earned. Show emotional connection through shared moments and vulnerability.
  • Subtext matters more than declarations—less “I hate sand,” more meaningful bonding.

3. Dual Storylines: Mystery & Romance.

Obi-Wan’s detective plot and Anakin’s love story run parallel. Structurally interesting, but tonally uneven.

Screenwriting takeaway:

  • When juggling dual storylines, ensure each drives the main plot and shares thematic resonance.
  • Keep tonal shifts intentional and balanced.

4. Foreshadowing and Tragedy.

Anakin’s inner conflict—his anger, fear, and protectiveness—foreshadow his eventual fall. This undercurrent is powerful when explored subtly.

Screenwriting takeaway:

  • Lay breadcrumbs for a character's future decisions.
  • Let flaws simmer before they boil over.

5. Set Pieces as Emotional Catalysts.

From the Geonosis arena to Yoda’s duel, action is spectacle—but also reveals shifting alliances, personal growth, and thematic stakes.

Screenwriting takeaway:

  • Great action isn’t just cool—it’s consequential.
  • Tie action to emotional change and character decisions.

6. Character Agency vs. Plot Convenience.

Sometimes characters act more like chess pieces than people, especially Anakin and Padmé.

Screenwriting takeaway:

  • Keep characters active, not reactive.
  • Let plot arise from choices, not just coincidence or necessity.

Why Study "Attack of the Clones?"

Because it shows how ambition, lore, and emotion can both collide and converge. It’s a film rich in lessons for:

  • Writing political thrillers in genre settings
  • Balancing romance and action
  • Building tragic arcs across multiple installments

And yes, it also serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of natural dialogue.

Screenwriting Lessons.

Dive into the screenwriting lessons of "Star Wars: Attack of the Clones" (2002). This free PDF explores romance, political intrigue, character arcs, and structure—ideal for screenwriters and educators.

Take a look at the "Star Wars: Episode II - Attack of the Clones" logline.

Image of the 'Star Wars: Episode II - Attack of the Clones' movie poster, representing the screenplay.

Ten years after initially meeting, Anakin Skywalker shares a forbidden romance with Padmé Amidala, while Obi-Wan Kenobi discovers a secret clone army crafted for the Jedi. Lucasfilm

"Star Wars: Episode II - Attack of the Clones" Screenplay Details.

Whether you're a fan or an aspiring screenwriter, here are key insights to know.

To get the "Star Wars: Episode II - Attack of the Clones" script now, keep scrolling until you see the READ / DOWNLOAD button. And, just a reminder, for a better understanding of our color-coded classifications, scroll a little further down until you find the "Glossary."

Okay, here are the facts:

Type ...
SCANNED
Version ... Unspecified Draft
Date ... 07.04.2000
Pages ... 110 + 2
Genres ... ActionAdventureFantasy
Screenplay ... George LucasJonathan Hales
IMDb ID ... 0121765

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Two Jedi escape a hostile blockade to find allies and come across a young boy who may bring balance to the Force, but the long-dormant Sith resurface to claim their former glory.

As the Clone Wars nears its end, Obi-Wan Kenobi pursues a new threat, while Anakin Skywalker is lured by Chancellor Palpatine into a sinister plot for galactic domination.