20 Animated TV Shows That Are Practically Flawless

Set between the films Attack of the Clones and Revenge of the Sith, Star Wars: The Clone Wars was Lucasfilm's attempt to fill in the gaps of its divisive prequel trilogies' many plot twists and emotional rug-pulls.

Deeply enriching the development of Anakin Skywalker and Obi-Wan Kenobi, whilst humanising the eponymous clones with often heart-wrenching results, the epic and increasingly dark show quickly proved to be amongst the best Star Wars properties ever made.

Produced with gorgeous visuals that improved each season, The Clone Wars was also a striking example of how to use fan service to great effect, and in the process of its drama added layers of heartbreak and complexity to the Galaxy's journey that the films were often lacking.

Even with its brief but jarring cancellation during its penultimate season, The Clone Wars ranks as a major high point in a franchise with many.