Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace

⭐⭐⭐

Released back in 1999 The Phantom Menace remains visually stunning! It's a shame the ropey dialogue and unbearable comic relief distract from what is perhaps one of the best examples of a prequel ever put to screen. Expanding on the original trilogy's narrative while also opening the doors for new adventures to take place.

Since its inception, Star Wars has been a global sensation, but this film and the stories that followed captured the minds of a new generation reinforcing its monopoly on the genre. The world feels more alive than ever, exploring new & familiar planets like Naboo, Coruscant and of course Tatooine. There are plenty of iconic moments, the battle for Naboo & pod-racing included but the obvious standout is Qui-Gon Jinn & Darth Maul's epic final showdown. An outstandingly choreographed fight with John William's Duel of the Fates topping it off as an unforgettable moment.

Many newcomers to the saga will look to this as their introduction. (This is called episode 1 after all) But this is not the starting point you're looking for. It expects a lot from the viewer spending little to no time setting the scene, It throws you in expecting you to follow along. The original trilogy remains the best way into the galaxy far, far away.

While this gets a lot right, it is deeply flawed. A lot of this can unfortunately be attributed to one character, Jar Jar Binks! It feels like beating a dead horse criticising Jar Jar given how infamous he's become, but his impact can't be understated. The Gungan outcast (originating from Naboo) is a constant presence, offering zero value to the group aside from delivering unbearable one-liners or slapstick routines in almost every scene! I saw this in a cinema full of people and not once did the character get a laugh.

Yes, his comic relief is appealing to younger audiences but there are less intrusive ways to inject humour. An example? Look no further than the original trilogies R2D2 & C3PO. Offering more than just laughs, they contribute to the team. Jar Jar in comparison feels like dead weight and is an unwanted distraction from key moments in the story. His very existence is a blight on the prequel's reputation.

Episode 1 is an ambitious entry that despite its glaring downfalls manages to stick the landing. Though not the best in the franchise, what the film does well is as good as it gets.