Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace (1999)

Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace is the beginning of the Stars Wars epic, at least chronologically. 22 years after A New Hope, we go back to the galaxy far, far away to see how it all begin. The beginning of war with the Trade Federation, the discovery of little Anakin Skywalker and his many midichlorians, and the reappearance of the Sith. Oh, and don’t forget Jar Jar Binks!

Are you a fan of the prequels? How do you feel about the return to the Star Wars universe after the original trilogy? Give Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace a star rating and comment below on which trilogy is better!

My Thoughts on Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace

PG | 2h 16 mins | Adventure, Sci-Fi, Fantasy | May 19, 1999

Did I Like It?

My overall feeling towards the show.

I’m a fan of the Star Wars Prequels. I think they are a lot of fun and they’re what I grew up with. I remember seeing Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace at the Drive-in Theater and just being so excited to be a part of the Star Wars universe. I also know that that opinion isn’t shared by die-hard fans. I know that some things are silly, like Jar Jar Binks or midichlorians, but I can forgive those. My personal favorite things about this film are Obi-Wan Kenobi and Darth Maul. I’d pay to see a movie about the two of them.

Napability?

How easily could I sleep through this.

I found that Episode I goes from a high level of excitement to a really low level with lots of talking. I do struggle to pay attention at times because my mind starts to wander. Usually about epic lightsaber duels and pretending to be a Jedi. It also broke the 2 hour mark, so if you don’t have that kind of attention span you’re in for a struggle.

What’s It Worth?

How much effort/money would I put towards this show.

No matter how you feel about the prequels, everyone should plan on owning the entire Star Wars Saga. As for anything past the movies, I wouldn’t mind having some Darth Maul related merchandise like a poster or t-shirt. Unfortunately, there isn’t a lot of iconic stuff in Episode I. Maybe the Duel of Fates on your MP3 player for those moments you need to feel epic.

How Often Would I Watch It?

The frequency that I would watch this.

Now that they’re popping out Star Wars films like rabbits, I’ve consistently watched the Star Wars Saga, including Episode I, once a year to prepare for the new film. I don’t see that changing anytime soon. There are also times that I’m just in a Star Wars mood and this is one of the typical contenders.

Any “I’m Out!” Moments?

Moments where I mentally or physically check out of the show.

First of all, I completely agree that Jar Jar Binks is a waste of a character in the movie. I forgive them for including him because overall I like the movie, but my ears automatically tune him out whenever he speaks.

Secondly, I’ve never understood the whole Queen Amidala and Padmé being the same person, but the one with make up is just a bodyguard. It’s ridiculous, plus I can’t stand listening to “Queen Amidala” talk with her unusual gravelly voice.

Thirdly, why on Tatooine did they have to kill Darth Maul! As I’ve already explained in why Darth Maul Should Have Been the Villain, they missed an opportunity that I believe could have saved the prequels from the ridicule they’ve received.

Finally, within the first five minutes of Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace, Darth Sidious is mentioned and seen. He’s supposed to be the “Phantom Menance”, even though everyone thinks that is a reference to Darth Maul. You’re trying to tell me that the big baddie of the prequels is a phantom and yet there he is.

It all feels contradictory for me. Darth Sidious is the phantom menace and he’s clearly trying to be mysterious. He’s using a different name, hiding his face, disguising his voice, and orchestrating events beyond the scenes. Clearly, in the story, he’s a villain who hides in the shadows. Why can’t I, as the viewer, be involved in that deception? I want to hear rumors and whispers of an evil sith lord, but no sign of him. I want to gasp when his identity is finally revealed. That would be amazing, but no. There he is, standing right in front of me.