Salon.com has posted the reader reaction to their negative review of the film:

Ms. Zacharek apparently doesn't know or care anything about "Star Wars" or the rather simple (as opposed to convoluted as she says) plot would be clear. Episode 2 fits neatly in the six-movie arc of "Star Wars" and accomplishes its goals. Those goals include: Showing how the Empire is born, how Anakin turns into Darth Vader and how Luke and Leia come to be. Of course, Episode 2 must presume that the viewer watched Episode 1. Episode 2 cannot on its own be a complete story because it has always been a portion of a greater story.

Ms. Zacharek faults Lucas for stealing from "Fifth Element." The scene she speaks of takes place on the planet Coruscant, which was featured briefly in the special edition of "Return of the Jedi" and has been a part of "Star Wars" for decades. In any event a futuristic city with flying vehicles is a sci-fi staple. As for the alleged "Gladiator" scene, Ms. Zacharek cannot mean to suggest that "Gladiator" was the first movie to use that scene.

It's clear that the verdict on "Attack of the Clones" was decided before Ms. Zacharek entered the theatre. I just wonder why she felt compelled to share her vitriolic nonsense with the world.

Thanks to Adam for the link!