Posted by Liam on October 31, 2021 at 08:32 AM CST
This week we’re diving into The Clone Wars, but not the overall show. Before becoming one of the most beloved pieces of Star Wars media ever, The Clone Wars came to theaters with a theatrical feature film. We’ll be profiling this first entry in the era of Ashoka Tano and Captain Rex with our week of coverage. Make sure to check out our “Expand Your Mind” base article first, then check out our “Character Profile” and “Timeline Breakdown” articles, in addition to Bobby’s awesome video content on our YouTube page!

The Clone Wars is the only Star Wars animated film to hit theaters, even if many audiences didn’t see it at the time. The film cut together what was intended to be the series opener into a 98 minute film that unfortunately bombed in theaters. Check out our “Force Facts” on the movie!


  • The Clone Wars is the only Star Wars film to not reach #1 at the box office during its opening weekend, getting outgrossed by Tropic Thunder and The Dark Knight. It's also the lowest rated on Rotten Tomatoes at 18%.


  • Although they were recast for the show itself, Samuel L. Jackson returned as Mace Windu and Christopher Lee came back as Count Dooku for The Clone Wars film.


  • Although some writers suggested that Captain Rex could take the name of “Alpha” from the Republic comics, it was decided that there were too many “A” names” with Anakin, Ashoka, and Artoo.

  • The Clone Wars was the first Star Wars movie to open outside of May with its August release. The film hit theaters only two months before the show started.


  • Although it was a prequel to the show itself, The Clone Wars series featured episodes “The Hidden Enemy” and “Cat and Mouse” that took place before.


  • The Clone Wars was the first Star Wars movie not to feature a score by John Williams. Both the movie and show featured the music of Kevin Kiner.


  • Anakin and Ashoka battle Asajj Ventress together in a Rancor pit in a scene that was cut from the film itself.


  • Although the film underperformed, it was a big year for Lucasfilm. Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull became the biggest (and most divisive) Indiana Jones movies ever in May, and The Force Unleashed became one of the biggest Star Wars games later in the fall.


  • Although many of the vocal cast members had first appeared in Genndy Tartakovsky's original Clone Wars series, Matt Lanter joined the franchise for the first time, replacing Matt Lucas.


  • The Force Unleashed and later The Clone Wars guest star Sam Witwer stated that he thought the film would’ve fared better if it had aired as part of the series.

What do you think, Rebelscum fans? Are you a fan of The Clone Wars movie? Does it deserve another shot? Let us know in the forums, and as always, may the Force be with you!
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