Star Wars: The Clone Wars (Film)

Star Wars: The Clone Wars is a 2008 animated feature film directed by Dave Filoni and executive produced by George Lucas. The plot focuses on a struggle between the Galactic Republic and the Confederacy of Independent Systems—each vying for Jabba the Hutt's permission to use Hutt Space's trade routes. In an attempt to gain Jabba's favor, Sith Lord and Separatist leader Count Dooku kidnaps Jabba's son, Rotta, in hopes of framing the Republic's Jedi Order as the true captors.

The film is set during the three-year time period between the films Star Wars: Episode II Attack of the Clones (2002) and Star Wars: Episode III Revenge of the Sith (2005). The Clone Wars served as an introduction to the animated series of the same name that premiered on Cartoon Network on October 3, 2008. Lucas was inspired to make the movie while reviewing footage from the show and described the film as "almost an afterthought." The film was released on August 15, 2008.

Though critical reception was negative, the film was a box office success, and grossed $68.3 million worldwide against an $8.5 million budget, and earned $14.6 million dollars during its opening weekend.

Opening Crawl
"A galaxy divided! Striking swiftly after the Battle of Geonosis, Count Dooku's droid army has seized control of the major hyperspace lanes, separating the Republic from the majority of its clone army. With few clones available, the Jedi generals cannot gain a foothold on the Outer Rim as more and more planets choose to join Dooku's Separatists. While the Jedi are occupied fighting a war, no one is left to keep the peace. Chaos and crime spread, and the innocent become victims in a lawless galaxy. Crime lord Jabba the Hutt's son has been kidnapped by a rival band of pirates. Desperate to save his son, Jabba puts out a call for help — a call the Jedi are cautious to answer…"