Twentieth Century Fox and Lucusfilm presents "The Phantom Menace". The long-awaited prequel to "Star Wars: A New Hope", explains how generous Anakin Skywalker became the greedy Darth Vader. Young Obi-wan Kenobi (Ewan McGregor) and his master Qui-Gon (Liam Neeson) are Jedi knights. They attempt to help the planet Naboo, which is under siege by a reptilian-like race.

Queen Amidala (Natalie Portman) is ruler of Naboo. The horrid-looking invaders want her to sign a treaty, to make their invasion "legal". Amidala joins the Jedi knights and bumbling Jar-Jar Binks to meet the senator, attempting to restore peace to Naboo. (Jar-Jar is their computer generated sidekick. His race is friendly with the planet Naboo because of their extensive army).

When ship troubles leave them grounded on the sandy planet Tatooine, Qui-Gon meets young Anakin Skywalker (Jack Lloyd- who's adorable). He feels the young boy is gifted. He wants to train him as his Jedi apprentice, and so begins Anakin's journey.

The movie is visually stunning. The different planets and star systems, that the characters encounter, are lavish and intense. Each planet had it's own unique species, lifestyle, and culture. There is a spectacular underwater city (Jar-Jar's home), you must see, to relish it's true splendor. Queen Amidala was stunning in her extravagant garments, indulgent makeup, and extreme headdresses. I delighted in her new outfits with each coming scene. She carried herself like a proper queen (probably from her heavy headdresses!).

The musical score by John Williams brought back fond memories of the original movie. It had a wonderful fresh sound. It was powerful during intense action scenes, which made them even more dramatic.

I came into the movie theater donned in a "Queen Amidala" shirt. Two hours later, I walked out of that same theater. Along with my colorful shirt, I had a content smile on my face. I knew my anxious anticipation for "Star Wars: The Phantom Menace" was not in vain. It is the most rewarding movie of the summer.

"The Phantom Menace" is rated PG for intense violence. People 10 and up can see the film.

The Official Movie Site

Star Wars Episode I
The Phantom Menace (1999)

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