I also don't like the tacked on R2D2 and C3P0 in the prequels - I understand why they're in there but I just think they kind of distracted more than helped the main plot

They were enjoyable movies in their own continuity and I liked Phantom Menace above the other two, in fact it goes ep 1, then 2 then 3 in my mind - just seems like things kept getting more over the top which fits with the epic idea but for some reason leaves me shaking my head.

Anyway just love Empire - it's my favourite (in standard fanboy style).