The scene is getting darker for Anakin Skywalker

The fate that awaits Anakin Skywalker, portrayed by Hayden Christensen, is by now well known, but fascination with the way his transformation plays out remains high -- 28 years after “Star Wars” forever altered our perceptions of science fiction movies. The Jedi knight Skywalker eventually turns on his mentor, Obi-Wan Kenobi (Ewan McGregor), and becomes Darth Vader, but as “Episode III: Revenge of the Sith” unfolds they are called upon to defend the Republic even as it is rapidly evolving into the evil Galactic Empire -- and Anakin is moving ever closer to embracing the dark side of the Force. Returning cast members include Natalie Portman, Frank Oz, Samuel L. Jackson, Christopher Lee, Anthony Daniels (C-3PO) and Kenny Baker (R2-D2).

Fans are queued in Hollywood and New York City and a London marathon of all six films that culminates with “Star Wars -- Episode III: Revenge of the Sith” sold out within minutes. On Thursday, a week before it officially opens, the first public screenings of the film that will benefit various charities are scheduled in 10 cities across the country. One screening, at the Mann Village in Westwood, benefits Artists for a New South Africa, an organization working to combat HIV/AIDS and protect civil and voting rights in South Africa and the U.S.

Will this be the finale for “Star Wars”? Hardly. Creator George Lucas envisions 30-minute animated “Clone Wars” TV shows and a live-action series that will serve as a bridge between this new film and the first “Star Wars.” Lucas also has said he wants to re-release all six films to theaters in digital 3-D versions, beginning in 2007 or the following year.

-- R. Kinsey Lowe