Lucas hints at Episode III plot

Following rampant speculation, some official details have been released about Star Wars episode III.

16:38 22 March 2004

Following rampant speculation, some official details have been released about Star Wars episode III.

Much of the film's plot has been widely anticipated. No one will be surprised if Padme becomes pregnant, Anakin is unlikely to remain close to Obi Wan, and we expect a lot of Jedi to die.

But Star Wars supremo George Lucas has released some official news.

In a few lines on www.starwars.com he has outlined the third film.

"After three long years of relentless fighting, the Clone Wars are nearly at an end," he said.

"The Jedi Council dispatches Obi-Wan Kenobi to bring the deadly leader of the Separatist droid army to justice.

"Meanwhile, back on Coruscant, Chancellor Palpatine has grown in power. His sweeping political changes transform the war-weary Republic into the mighty Galactic Empire.

"To his closest ally, Anakin Skywalker, he reveals the true nature of power and the promised secrets of the Force in an attempt to lure him to the dark side."

We wait with baited breath.