Star Wars, Episode I: The Phantom Menace (1999) - Movie Review

I have to say that I am surprised at the reception of the prequel trilogy. Many fans of the original trilogy were reluctant to accept these movies. Some thought that they took something away from the original movies. I disagree.

I liked episodes 1 through 3 just as much as I liked 4 through 6, maybe even more. I like that the first three tell the story of Anakin Skywalker and what leads him to become Darth Vader. But beyond that it is the story of Padme Amidala (Natalie Portman) and her relationship with Anakin.

Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace is a favorite but not at the top. Based on a 10 star rating I give it a 7. The story was pretty good, but the script and acting seemed a little forced at times.

I do have many favorite scenes.

The first favorite is when Quigon Jin (Liam Neeson) and Obi Wan Kenobi (Ewan McGregor) first meet Jar Jar Binx. Quigon supposedly saves Jar Jar's life. The antics that follow make for some pretty good comic relief.

My next favorite scene is the pod race scene. The whole scene is pretty cool. It shows the Tuskan Raiders, the Jawas and even Jabba the Hutt. I like the different things that happen just before, during and at the end of the pod race.

The third favorite scene is the final fight scene between Qui-Gon Jin, Obi Wan Kenobi, and Darth Maul (Ray Park). In the end Qui-Gon is killed by Darth Maul. But, Darth Maul is killed by Obi Wan Kenobi.

The music is great. Especially in the pod race scene and the final Darth Maul fight scene. John Williams did a phenomenal job.

I have already given my rating of this movie. What is yours?