The fuel filter is just one of those routine maintenance things. You should replace it like, every 20k or something, I dont know the service interval. It gets dirtier quicker if you let your fuel gauge get down near empty before filling it up.
Is your car auto or manual? How many mile are on your car?
Manually rev the engine via the throttle body like Steven said. Theres a cable that goes to the intake manifold, to a metal piece near the intake. Rotate it and you will rev the engine. See if it gets stuck at all.
I think that maybe your injectors are a little clogged up.