I never liked the Star Wars films, but my 9 year old son had to see this. I was pleasantly surprised, this film was very entertaining.

I did not find it too violent, more cartoon violence. My son, who sat through all the Lord of the Ring films when he was even younger, had no problems with it.   

The dialogue is not realistic at all, but then again Lucas' was using the old Buck Rogers serials as his models. That makes it fun! (My favorite line - "I don't even know you anymore"! I chuckled out loud at that one!) The actors are superficial, the plot is silly, but the film is still enjoyable.

I still think the best film that Lucas ever made was American Graffiti.