Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace: Review By kiion

The Star Wars saga, for many different film fanatics, has become one of the most loved film franchises that have ever been released. With certain fans however, bordering on an obsession towards the elements that are found within this series; Jedi's, the force and the universe that Lucas has created to allow these things to inhabit within. Therefore, it came with mixed feelings that the decision was made to release a further trilogy that would serve as the prequels to the original films. Audience members were split, those who liked the idea of re-entering the universe they adored, and those who hated the thought of their feelings from the films being changed. With plenty of material to show in these prequels; the Clone Wars, the Jedi Knights at their prime and the younger years of perhaps the most famous screen villain of all time.

It is George Lucas's property so when the decision was made, there could be no arguments. This movie and the other two prequels that follow are his vision, and should be seen as such. Although 'The Phantom Menace' is no masterpiece, it does do well in outlaying many of the foundations to some of the key elements that are found in the latter installments, such as principles and key characters. For this film to be lauded by critiques however, is unfair as it is a filmmakers project and serves the purpose that it is made for to a high enough standard.

The plot of this film is set 30 years before the original, now titled Episode 4. The Jedi Knights are at their prime, the Galaxy is ruled by a Galactic Senate serving a republic, and as a whole the Galaxy is running smoothly. However, in the shadows an old enemy, the Sith Lords are plotting a way in over-ruling the people in the preparation to lead the galaxy into an empire. For their first part of the plan to come to fruition, the greedy trade federation are forced to cause a blockade on all trade routes to the small planet of Naboo. This plot device is implemented to cause disruption in the senate, giving the Sith Lords the leverage to take over. To try and settle the dispute, two Jedi Knights are sent aboard the Trade Federation Battleship as ambassadors. When complications arise however the Jedi flee the ship and arrive on the planet that is being blocked. Their they seek to, and complete, a rescue of the planets Queen from an invading droid army. They escape this planet and decide upon returning to the galactic capital, the planet Coruscant. When their escape vessel is damaged however, the party of characters are forced to land on the desert planet Tatooine. There, destiny takes over and the cast of the characters have a chance encounter with a young slave boy, Anakin Skywalker. This young boy will shape the galaxy in ways that no-one would ever guess. Throughout the full narrative the primary crop of characters are hunted by a highly dangerous Sith warrior, Darth Maul.

As prequel narratives go, this movie holds one that is fairly strong. Showcasing appropriate backstory to the number of important characters that inhabit the latter installments in a way that allows for further character development to be found and for the movie to create a larger depth to the original movies. Although Lucas should be forgiven as it is his ideas and his universe that he has created, certain elements of this movie are not needed; the character Jar Jar Binks has been brought in for what can only be deemed as a comedy element for this film, but his appearance in this film does nothing more than to bring irritation to the audience in every scene that he is shown. The decision to show the force as living organisms that are found within all creatures, takes a lot away from the pure spectacle and magic that it was seen as in the original trilogy. Both these elements are not needed, but these can be seen as only small hates and as such should not take away from the fact that this movie shows enough and adds even more, meaning that most Star Wars fans should find interest here.

For a cast of actors that include highly rated working professionals, the acting found within this film is rightly so, to a high standard. Within this movie they do not disappoint and each actor portrays their respective roles admirably. Liam Neeson plays the wise master role within this movie, fully to the way that it should be played. His Qui Gon Jin showcases the wisdom that many believed Jedi's to be and as such is a great way to showcase these warriors in their prime. Ewan McGregor portrays the young Jedi apprentice Obi Wan Kenobi, a character that was made famous in the original trilogy by Sir Alec Guinness. He acts this role in a way that mirrors the original character, but with enough of Ewan McGregor's own take on the character that allows it to come across fresh and unique but still able to fit into the Star Wars mythology appropriately. Natalie Portman portrays Queen Amidala in a way that showcases true inner strength and believability. These aspects are needed for the character to be presented properly and Portman is completely suited in this role.

The chemistry between herself and a young Jake Lloyd is apparent in the scenes, becoming more prominent in the later prequels and as such, fits this film correctly. Jake Lloyd's role holds the most pressure, being the young Darth Vader brings across a certain expectancy from the fans of the original trilogy. Jake Lloyd plays the role in such a way that showcases all of the character's strengths and many beginnings of the faults that shape his destiny to what it is.

Returning characters play roles that they're know for in the same way that they appear in the other episodes. Notable supporting roles found within this film are those of Ray park and Samuel L Jackson, as Darth Maul and Mace Windu respectively. These actors add a lot to the roles and give this movie a type of sophistication that these actors can achieve.

Special effects in this movie are extremely strong, with the design and execution of these effects to be some of the highest standard found in a movie from this year. Although a tad dated when compared to the effects that are present within in modern movies, the effects that are used within this movie are to a standard that does not allow it to fall short of what consumers are expecting. They still add to the overall spectacle of the movie and as such are a good addition to the plot. Key sequences within this movie are the pod race scene and the end light saber duel which are very effects-heavy. These two scenes are the ones that stand out, and therefore make this movie very exciting to watch. Having George Lucas as the Director within this movie also works well, as it allows his complete vision to be transported onto the screen and therefore into the audience members. This allows the film to feel natural and gives a lot more to overall production.

This movie will keep people in both camps. Those who hate and those who adore it. This is a shame as it is a prequel that sets up future installments correctly. With enough action- that for a lot of people are the strongest in the franchise- allows this movie to be easily watched. This movie should be a sure pick for any science fiction fan as well as a good starting point for those that are new to the series.