Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace
Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation | Release Date: May 19, 1999
6.2
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Generally favorable reviews based on 2088 Ratings
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1,020
Mixed:
751
Negative:
317
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User scoreBy dateMost helpful
6
koothrappaliFeb 1, 2016
Episódio I é de longe o pior e mais desnecessário filme de toda a franquia Star Wars. E quando eu falo desnecessário, eu quero dizer que: se você pular esse filme, não vai fazer a mínima diferença no entendimento da história. A única coisaEpisódio I é de longe o pior e mais desnecessário filme de toda a franquia Star Wars. E quando eu falo desnecessário, eu quero dizer que: se você pular esse filme, não vai fazer a mínima diferença no entendimento da história. A única coisa realmente importante que acontece nesse filme é a introdução do Anakin/Darth Vader e da melhor dupla de robôs que existe na história do cinema, porque de resto, o filme é uma verdadeira desgraça. E não podemos esquecer de mencionar o personagem mais chato que eu já vi em toda a minha vida: Jar Jar Binks. C-3PO e R2-D2, esse 6 são dedicados a vocês.… Expand
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6
BernolsvenJan 26, 2015
[Portuguese] O filme é um pouco chato, só o final é interessante, porém este filme introduziu o começo de toda história de Star Wars, então é um filme importante.
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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4
MattBrady99May 4, 2020
"There's always a bigger fish."

May the 4th be with you folks.

Remember, even through this movie is extremely boring and disappointing, at least it's not your son.
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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6
FawksJul 21, 2015
As for the first episode of prequels it had potential. Don't get me wrong the movie is bad, but you can see that Lucas wanted to make it good. Despite all the flaws it had the Star Wars feel in it. The problem was that Lucas is not a goodAs for the first episode of prequels it had potential. Don't get me wrong the movie is bad, but you can see that Lucas wanted to make it good. Despite all the flaws it had the Star Wars feel in it. The problem was that Lucas is not a good director or writer. If he would just write the story and remained a producer it could be much better.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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6
yoshi8869May 23, 2017
I suppose I'll ostracize original trilogy fans far and wide by saying this, but I felt this film was a solid standalone flick. It was fun, adventurous, and had a great final duel, but it lacked in direction and writing. The story is promisingI suppose I'll ostracize original trilogy fans far and wide by saying this, but I felt this film was a solid standalone flick. It was fun, adventurous, and had a great final duel, but it lacked in direction and writing. The story is promising enough. The addition of the "Jesus-esque" theme is questionable but somewhat acceptable once you get into the surrounding lore. The plot is shaky and a little haphazard, but not altogether bad.

The story and plot suffer from a failure in the cinematography department. The film is gaudy and over-saturated in color and effects, little of which is practical. As a result, it loses novelty value.

The direction was abysmal. That's the root of everything wrong with the prequels and is most prevalent in the Phantom Menace. Lucas should not be allowed to direct alone and surround himself with yes-men. His arrogance and outlandish, unrelatable imagination can lead to his own downfall and does in this film.

The acting could've used some work, but the concepts and themes are sound. It really all came down to the fact that the good story was saturated with colors, flashy tech, obnoxious comedic relief, and cheesy dialogue. Also, midichlorians. Yeah, nope. 6.75/10 -JR… Expand
0 of 4 users found this helpful04
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6
BorgorosJan 11, 2020
So much could have been done better, but the story holds together. Awesome scenes and characters helps also. Minus Jar Jar and too much dreary politics. Darth Maul vs Obi-Wan/Qui-Gon, pod-race, space-battles and the over all story is a great combo.
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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6
PachekoviskMar 17, 2016
MEDIOCRE
In my opinion it's not the worst in the series.
It has a terrible acting, excessive use of CGI and a dumb story.
But is better than a lot of other movies. Including the second one...
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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4
superbatMay 15, 2020
The Phantom Menace stands out as one of the most disappointing films of all time. The use of CGI is excessive. The story lacks the soul and conviction which made the original films great, due to wordy dialogue and bland characters. TheThe Phantom Menace stands out as one of the most disappointing films of all time. The use of CGI is excessive. The story lacks the soul and conviction which made the original films great, due to wordy dialogue and bland characters. The lengthy space race contributes little to the story. Jar Jar Binks, a comic relief character, drags the movie down and makes it nearly unwatchable. There was a lot of missed potential with this movie.… Expand
0 of 2 users found this helpful02
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5
eva3si0nJan 30, 2020
The problem with The Phantom Menace is that many start to get to know Star Wars with it, which can deter the film series. The film itself is quite mediocre, there are few strong characters here and the film 's performance is not so activelyThe problem with The Phantom Menace is that many start to get to know Star Wars with it, which can deter the film series. The film itself is quite mediocre, there are few strong characters here and the film 's performance is not so actively developing to in the main trilogy. Strictly for fans.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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6
MonkiReviewsJul 12, 2017
It started out very boring, and confusing. The second half improved a lot though. It had some awesome action parts. It doesn't deserve the bad reviews, but it wasn't great either. A must watch for fans though.
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5
TiagoGM18Mar 27, 2017
I don't really think that Jar Jar Binks is the worst part of this movie, I really don't, if we were able to connect to some of the characters, Jar Jar would be easily overlooked, however, since Obi-Wan is the only charismatic character, theI don't really think that Jar Jar Binks is the worst part of this movie, I really don't, if we were able to connect to some of the characters, Jar Jar would be easily overlooked, however, since Obi-Wan is the only charismatic character, the movie gets really boring really fast but if you manage to sit through 2/3 of the movie, the last act will certainly pay off. P.S. betting on an 9 year old with little acting experience is always a risk, i'm sure Jake Lloyd performed as well as he could and I can't help but agreeing with Mark Hamill's take on the kid's critics… Expand
0 of 3 users found this helpful03
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6
GunganFeb 12, 2018
I am re-watching all of the Star Wars movies to cleanse my palette from the most recent one.

As much as this one in particular is panned, it had a well put together script, and the story was worth telling. The production values are easily onI am re-watching all of the Star Wars movies to cleanse my palette from the most recent one.

As much as this one in particular is panned, it had a well put together script, and the story was worth telling. The production values are easily on par with any modern movie, though the cinematography and storytelling is less bombastic that modern audiences are used to. The visuals and sound are fantastic as well, and really give you a good variety of settings to look at when the Republic was at it's height.

The only real problems with this movie stem from two factors. The first is the use of a child actor for the part of Anakin. If he was aged up a bit into his early teens, I think the performance would have been more natural, less creepy when played against Natalie Portman, and more believable as a whole with other minor tweaks. The other problem was Jar Jar, because of the slapstick physical comedy. If they had toned him down instead of amping him to 11 for the kids, I don't think people would have been particularly bothered.

It's still a very coherent story that sits firmly grounded in the universe enjoyed by many fans.… Expand
0 of 2 users found this helpful02
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6
spacebear1Dec 9, 2017
Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace has had massive amounts of mixed reviews over the years since its release. I have a lot of nostalgia for this film but I'm going to put all that aside for the review. Even after putting aside myStar Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace has had massive amounts of mixed reviews over the years since its release. I have a lot of nostalgia for this film but I'm going to put all that aside for the review. Even after putting aside my nostalgic feelings, I still like this movie. Yes, Jar-Jar is useless and completely retarded and the senate scenes are a bit boring and tedious, and I know that the fact that almost every scene is filled with . But I like this film. I loved the the final fight with Darth Maul, awesome character by the way. Basically, I really can't say why I love this film, I just do. My rating would be 6.1/10… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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6
dougwiggins5Dec 15, 2017
Attempting to live up to the largest expectations imaginable and predecessors that had mythological reputations in cinema, The Phantom Menace fails miserably. However outside of the narrative of how Star Wars movies are made this movie isAttempting to live up to the largest expectations imaginable and predecessors that had mythological reputations in cinema, The Phantom Menace fails miserably. However outside of the narrative of how Star Wars movies are made this movie is more mediocre than terrible. The plot is easy to follow, the story has a sense of adventure, and the heavy use of practical effects compared to it's trilogy brethren make it feel the most like the revered OT. See this movie if you like your Star Wars happy and don't mind a bit of overly lighthearted elements.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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5
Jaredc324Jun 28, 2019
Phantom Menace is a solid combo with way too many side orders. Everything involving Anakin and Qui-Gon Jin's characters enliven the truth and splendor of this prequel kickstarter, but is surrounded by an influx of overly-compressed andPhantom Menace is a solid combo with way too many side orders. Everything involving Anakin and Qui-Gon Jin's characters enliven the truth and splendor of this prequel kickstarter, but is surrounded by an influx of overly-compressed and exaggerated imagination, that benefits nothing but its own financial marketing scheme. But aside from all the child-actor whine-cries and Jar Jar binks, holds a decent enough story to revisit from time to time.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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5
LoletinAlexisApr 8, 2020
The Phantom Menace, that great project wasted by the direction of a misguided George Lucas.
Less ego and more help, Georgy.
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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6
GrantD243Apr 25, 2018
The Phantom Menace is another movie that had a crazy amount of hype behind it when it came out, or so I've been told... I actually didn't see it until around 2002 as I was still a very young chap when it came out in '99. And boy, I'm glad IThe Phantom Menace is another movie that had a crazy amount of hype behind it when it came out, or so I've been told... I actually didn't see it until around 2002 as I was still a very young chap when it came out in '99. And boy, I'm glad I didn't see this movie in the theaters. I can't imagine how disappointed I would have been, and how quiet the car ride back home would have been. The characters are...okay, I guess? Darth Maul seems cool but we don't get a whole lot out of him (although his character was flushed out pretty well in the animated shows), young Anakin is...yeah, and Jar Jar is downright terrible. But hey, at least Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan were pretty awesome. The plot is nothing special. It's essentially the story of how Anakin came to be trained by the Jedi (and how he met Padme), but it's not a very interesting story and honestly you could fast forward through most of this movie and you wouldn't miss much. Really, the only thing that redeems this movie for me is the duel between Darth Maul and Qui-Gon/Obi-Wan towards the end of the movie. Without that sequence, this would easily be the worst Star Wars movie.… Expand
0 of 2 users found this helpful02
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4
AntonEgoJun 1, 2018
Kind of boring and full of unnecessary humour. Bad acting, but I'm ok with the plot and CGI. I love the new planets and everything we got to know about the star wars universe (the history of the jedi order before the original trilogy)Kind of boring and full of unnecessary humour. Bad acting, but I'm ok with the plot and CGI. I love the new planets and everything we got to know about the star wars universe (the history of the jedi order before the original trilogy) throughout the movie.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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6
KonlinerJul 16, 2018
The Prequel movie is nowhere as brilliant as the Original Trilogy. It is poorly written with unrealistic/annoying/unnecessary dialogue, weak plot, and robotic acting performance. It is also confusing whether this movie is intended for allThe Prequel movie is nowhere as brilliant as the Original Trilogy. It is poorly written with unrealistic/annoying/unnecessary dialogue, weak plot, and robotic acting performance. It is also confusing whether this movie is intended for all ages or adults only. It contains a lot of childish humor/scenes, but it also has some complex political dialogue. Often times you will hear political words like embargo, federation, senate, etc. The political scenes, though make a great instrument for Episode 3, ruins the story. This movie also makes the Star Wars universe seem a lot smaller, such as Obi Wan's early encounter with R2D2 or the fact that Anakin created C3PO which would later, somehow, in this huge galaxy, will unite with Anakin's son. It also ruins the romanticism of the force by trying to make it more scientific and less magical. On the other hand, Darth Maul is an intimidating antagonist (too bad he was killed instead of saved for the next sequel) and the lightsaber duel, though unrealistic, is stunning to look at. Its set and prop design is also worth to be praised, alongside with Episode 2 and 3. This movie serves well as an experimental movie.… Expand
0 of 2 users found this helpful02
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4
TirecexDec 29, 2019
I did a rewatch of this movie some days ago and it is still as bad as it was 10 years ago the last time I saw it. At times at feels more like a comedy then like the Space opera as it is supposed to be. It is a Star Wars movie made for 7 yearI did a rewatch of this movie some days ago and it is still as bad as it was 10 years ago the last time I saw it. At times at feels more like a comedy then like the Space opera as it is supposed to be. It is a Star Wars movie made for 7 year old children.

Jar Jar Binks is easily one of the most unnecessary characters in movie history. Everything he does is talk funny and slip on things. The same goes for Anakin Skywalker. "Hey whats this funny button -> Destroys space station and saves everyone"

At least the fight between Darth Maul, Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan in the end is good. And it is still better then The Last Jedi and The Fall of Skywalker.… Expand
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6
DerekReideMar 10, 2019
Now, I'm not saying this is the worst Star Wars movie, but it is better than The Last Jedi. Sorry Rian, but it's true and the fans know it. I'd rather listen to Jar Jar talk than listen to the "jokes" we had to put up with in TLJ. Anyway, theNow, I'm not saying this is the worst Star Wars movie, but it is better than The Last Jedi. Sorry Rian, but it's true and the fans know it. I'd rather listen to Jar Jar talk than listen to the "jokes" we had to put up with in TLJ. Anyway, the movie was good, but not good enough to reboot the Star Wars franchise.… Expand
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5
MetaMetaXYMay 11, 2021
I don't think, it's a great film, but it's okay. Theres to much politics and to less Star Wars, but overall not the badest.
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6
artardmosheaDec 11, 2019
The plot adds a lot to the lore, explaining the origins of important characters in the series and laying the groundwork for the galactic war.

Pod racing, awesome Darth maul, cool This movies greatest flaw is an abundance of hamfistedThe plot adds a lot to the lore, explaining the origins of important characters in the series and laying the groundwork for the galactic war.

Pod racing, awesome
Darth maul, cool

This movies greatest flaw is an abundance of hamfisted slapstick humour that doesn't land.

The cg is really looking dated now specifically Jar jar looks extremely fake, I don't remember him looking so disconnected to the scenes in previous viewings but watching it on Disney+ in 1080p he looks very fake.

I've watched this movie about ten times, It's not a terrible movie and there are some great moments, but it's always been a disappointment.… Expand
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4
Jeebus117Jan 25, 2021
Darth Maul and Liam Neeson can't save this movie. The massive shift in tone, as well as the over-animated visuals are just some of the issues. Anakin and Jar Jar are the worst, though.
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6
BasquillyApr 28, 2015
The worst addition to the series, this movie suffers throughout from its failure to evolve from the original trilogy. The acting, editing and special effects are only marginally improved from the original franchise, but this stands more as aThe worst addition to the series, this movie suffers throughout from its failure to evolve from the original trilogy. The acting, editing and special effects are only marginally improved from the original franchise, but this stands more as a testament to the original movies than a failure of this one. Where this movie really falls down is the weak attempt to form a connection between the characters and the audience, and the stilted direction of the actors on the set. The curse of the child actor really hurts this movie as well, along with the cringey additions of characters like JarJar Binks and Nute Gunray. The movie saves itself some semblance of credibility through a few stellar action sequences, notably the pod racing on Tatooine and the dual between QuiGon Jinn, Obi Wan Kenobi and Darth Maul. The plot is also superior to any of the original trilogy, and sets up a solid story arch. Again however it suffers from excessive exposition, leaving no mystery to intrigue those watching.… Expand
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6
hanneguacamoleJan 4, 2016
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. In what should have been a deliberate and riveting prequel to arguably one of the best trilogies, The Phantom Menace shows its age – in the CGI animation and the time since the last installment. The dots simply do not connect, and I'm not sure that Episode I would have any success if it were not for the beginnings of Darth Vader himself.

Darth Vader is obviously a vital character in the franchise, so the portrayal of Anakin Skywalker here is understandable, but feels forced. Because he is strong with the Force. Ha! With the introduction of many new characters, the same level of closeness were not attained with the likes of Jar Jar Binks and Qui Jon. Star Wars has always been innovative with its stories and locations, but at the same time it dwells too much on fighting with clones and the plot device of destroying the Death Star (on accident?)

As a Star Wars fan, I apprecaite seeing young Anakin Skywalker, but I am disappointed. I love seeing the similarities between father and son, Luke, yet Luke's journey can't help but cast a shadow over his father's. The Phantom Menace's enemy is not nearly as well developed as the original trilogy, and the film struggles with reconciling Anakin's journey through the ages. Obi-Wan pulls it out though. As the connective tissue between generations, it is good to see the Jedi teachings passed along, even without the blessing of Yoda. But why the CGI? The special effects may have been the most disappointing to me – I love the nostalgia.… Expand
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6
CineAutoctonoMay 9, 2016
"Star Wars: Episode 1: The Phantom Meneace " was a movie like this say, disappointing, precisely because of the very little action, and by no taste that left me, and that also left me if emotions, but it was good after completely.
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5
therealcritic79Aug 10, 2015
There is so much yet so little happening in this movie. There is a complicated story about the trade federation and politics, but it is so weird that it goes nowhere. It lacks the feel that made the first star wars so great. That and JAR JARThere is so much yet so little happening in this movie. There is a complicated story about the trade federation and politics, but it is so weird that it goes nowhere. It lacks the feel that made the first star wars so great. That and JAR JAR BINKS! Need I say more? Fans will enjoy this, but everyone else should just skip this one.… Expand
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4
FLaaVEnAug 11, 2020
A pretty boring start for the prequels but the last act really holds the movie up.
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6
SrPepeNov 29, 2017
Jar Jar Binks es el nuevo Dios del Universo Star Wars. Él es el comandante supremo del imperio, sith maestro, superior al canciller, Vader, Dooku y cualquier otro payaso.
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5
SonicHD7Jun 1, 2017
Obi-Wan Kenobi (Ewan McGregor) is a young apprentice Jedi knight under the tutelage of Qui-Gon Jinn (Liam Neeson) ; Anakin Skywalker (Jake Lloyd), who will later father Luke Skywalker and become known as Darth Vader, is just a 9-year-old boy.Obi-Wan Kenobi (Ewan McGregor) is a young apprentice Jedi knight under the tutelage of Qui-Gon Jinn (Liam Neeson) ; Anakin Skywalker (Jake Lloyd), who will later father Luke Skywalker and become known as Darth Vader, is just a 9-year-old boy. When the Trade Federation cuts off all routes to the planet Naboo, Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan are assigned to settle the matter.… Expand
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5
All_ButTrU4May 9, 2022
An uneven stiff start to a lauded franchise I'm only watching to satisfy my curiosity on the dedication it's amassed. I'm rarely ever affected by the anachronism of movies in terms of production, effects and scriptwriting but on this classicAn uneven stiff start to a lauded franchise I'm only watching to satisfy my curiosity on the dedication it's amassed. I'm rarely ever affected by the anachronism of movies in terms of production, effects and scriptwriting but on this classic it alienates investment . Anakin I a void of character whilst Jar jar is an eyesore. The dialogue was a trudge alongside the pacing which seems to relish not getting to the point.… Expand
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6
faustojcsDec 10, 2019
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. É percebivel e é consideravel que o filme é bastante antigo, da década de 90 e por isso não tinha toda a tecnologia que temos hoje. Por isso, na morte do Mestre Jedi, achei muito sem emoção. Mas, o filme possui qualidades é claro, boas lutas e cenas interessantes. Consideravel para a época.… Expand
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6
KazRockatanzkyDec 19, 2019
Nice little movie with some really weird decisions, the best about the phantom menace may be the approach at world building expanding the already known far far away galaxy, has excellent soundtrack pieces and a nice pace.
the two big flawsNice little movie with some really weird decisions, the best about the phantom menace may be the approach at world building expanding the already known far far away galaxy, has excellent soundtrack pieces and a nice pace.
the two big flaws that drag this movie down are the really bad dialogue writing and the too much coincidences through the fim.… Expand
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6
PooheadAug 27, 2021
Not as bad as I remember jar jar Binks honestly isn't that annoying still quite boring in parts and some shoddy dialogue yoosa in big doo doo
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6
patron11Apr 24, 2020
I have mixed feelings about this movie. It´s nice to see the young Anakin Skywalker being freed from his slavery and starting his first steps towards his Jedi-Path. On the other hand the movie was way too silly. Jar Jar Binks can be a funnyI have mixed feelings about this movie. It´s nice to see the young Anakin Skywalker being freed from his slavery and starting his first steps towards his Jedi-Path. On the other hand the movie was way too silly. Jar Jar Binks can be a funny character, but the huge part he has in this story was just incredibly bad placed. Overall I also thought that dialogues and the story itself were very dull and too obvious in many situations. There is also no real connection to any of the characters, they feel very boring and without a lively saga. Definitely one of the worse Star Wars movies.

6/10… Expand
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6
Geek_In_RedJun 8, 2020
I didn't hate this movie. I didn't enjoy the movie, but I don't dislike it. This is my second time recording my thoughts about this movie, but my reactions are way different this time. The difference this time is that the movie has myI didn't hate this movie. I didn't enjoy the movie, but I don't dislike it. This is my second time recording my thoughts about this movie, but my reactions are way different this time. The difference this time is that the movie has my respect. I bashed this movie once, calling it the worst movie ever made. This time, I respect the movie because I realize that it's George Lucas' pure vision. This movie has pretty good fights, the soundtrack is amazing, and the special effects were amazing for their time. My only real problem with this movie is the passing issues.… Expand
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6
tellmikeyyJun 20, 2022
This movie isn't bad in the slightest and the hate for certain characters, although understandable, isn't warranted. Re-watching this movie for the first time in years, the CGI isn't as bas as I remember and the action sequences are stillThis movie isn't bad in the slightest and the hate for certain characters, although understandable, isn't warranted. Re-watching this movie for the first time in years, the CGI isn't as bas as I remember and the action sequences are still pretty good. I have to admit, although the movie has direction, the middle of the movie is definitely slow and there are moments you can't help but want to change. The beginning and final act are the best parts of the movie and Qui-Gon & Darth Maul carry this film.… Expand
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4
jjarockiMar 24, 2020
There are times where one forgets the things that work in Phantom Menace, simply because we accept them as Star Wars. The production design here is amazing, with some real creativity. John Williams' score shines with some of his best work.There are times where one forgets the things that work in Phantom Menace, simply because we accept them as Star Wars. The production design here is amazing, with some real creativity. John Williams' score shines with some of his best work. However, this is boggled down by some awkward dialogue, mediocre cinematography, and a real lack of direction throughout the whole thing. The actors here are better than this, they just aren't allowed to show it… Expand
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5
TEMP0May 30, 2020
I feel ashamed to say that Phantom Menace is the start of the Skywalker Saga when it's filled with George Lucas' brain farts after the Originals.

Are kids supposed to see a film about an intergalactic trade embargo?
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6
pur__0_0__Jun 24, 2021
As a kid I hated Star Wars because of the prequels, since I liked the battle droids and I didn't like seeing the Jedis kill them (I was such a child back then). I had no idea what the movies were all about so two years ago I decided to sitAs a kid I hated Star Wars because of the prequels, since I liked the battle droids and I didn't like seeing the Jedis kill them (I was such a child back then). I had no idea what the movies were all about so two years ago I decided to sit down and watch every single Star Wars movie just before the release of Episode IX. Until now I used to always think that Star Wars are all about fighting with lightsabers, shooting blasters and something something Luke I'm your father. But now that I have watched them all and learnt everything, I can finally review them. So here goes the first one.

I really like the idea behind the prequels: George Lucas wanted us to see how an innocent boy named Anakin slowly turned into Darth Vader. This is the first movie where he is introduced as a young boy, who has to work for a pingas-nosed fly whom his family owed money. Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon Jinn get him freedom so that they can be Jedis. I have already forgotten why they decided to do so, because that scene has a very boring aura to it. Just remembering that scene makes me feel sleepy.

But what follows next is the very thing that took away all my sleep - The fabled Pod Racing! It was so cool to watch. Out of the 6 stars that I have given this movie, 3 alone are for the pod racing. I really wish there were some even more fun scenes throughout the movie. Sadly what we got was Jar-Jar Binks. I don't know about you but I absolutely hate seeing those annoying humanoid characters who always speak in weird manners and do random things in fight scenes (Gollum, Dobby, Gimli, Hound from Transformers etc).

So anyway, Anakin is brought to Padmé, who decides to keep him like a child (I'm gonna control my laughter since I wanna keep this review spoiler free). But the Jedi council refuses to keep Anakin since he has grown too old to be trained as a Jedi. I strongly object to this. Luke was trained as a Jedi when he was like what, in his late twenties? So where's the problem here? And it's not even like the technology developed by then so now more people could be trained. Everything is still literally the same, if not worse in future. So in all fairness Anakin should have always been allowed to be a Jedi.

The movie has many memorable characters like Mace Windu, Darth Maul, young Yoda, young Palpatine and Gunray. We also get to see the origins of C3PO, which was definitely unexpected. The movie adds a lot to the lore of Star Wars, but there is barely any world building in comparison to what the original trilogy did. Another problem is that it's very boring and campy. At least the boredom was addressed in the future movies, but by then the damage was done. The campiness stayed, however. The CGI is also very bad, with shadows and lighting reacting all wrong.

Star Wars: Episode I is one of those movies I'd put in the same categories as Batman v Superman. The first time you watch it you hate it. The second time you watch it, it gets better. But I just can't get myself to watch it the second time, remembering the Tatooine scene and Jar-Jar Binks. Although I don't think this movie is outright trash like how many haters call it, it's definitely far from being a "definitely not the worst Star Wars" movie. I really hope in future Disney remasters this movie's CGI and brings it back without any other edit from its side. This could definitely make this movie a bit better.… Expand
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5
kiroaramaJun 29, 2020
Not the greatest star wars movie, the special effects have aged really poorly and when the majority of the movie are green screens and many characters (including some of the main characters) are CGI, there is a big disconnection between theNot the greatest star wars movie, the special effects have aged really poorly and when the majority of the movie are green screens and many characters (including some of the main characters) are CGI, there is a big disconnection between the viewer and the world their are trying to create.
The dialog is odd, almost nobody speaks like (normal) people.
Jar Jar is probably my biggest question mark in this film, I just don't understand his purpose.… Expand
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6
SirSplendidSep 13, 2020
not as bad as people say it is, jar jar is terrible and so is lil ani. the podrace and the politics scenes are boring but hey, it's not that bad, it's enjoyable with an okay plot and characters.
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6
Morze232Sep 12, 2020
Although the beginning of this excellent series was not a good movie, it would be better if Darth Maoul who started this beautiful series did not die.
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6
keonbreezDec 16, 2020
Not as bad as I remember it.

Pros:
Podrace scene
Multiple Final action sequences
Opening scene

Cons:
Young anakin
jar jar
bad cgi
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6
geewahJan 8, 2021
The worst of all the Star Wars movies to date.
Was always going to be tough ask, but some wooden dialogue, bad acting and the overuse of CGI takes away from a movie that does have some great scenes.
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5
Nick-ChierJan 21, 2021
The story is bloated, leaving the dialogue to be used as an explanation device then as dialogue, some actors are good, some are bad, the bad ones distract and take me out of the experience. The effects are outstanding at some points, butThe story is bloated, leaving the dialogue to be used as an explanation device then as dialogue, some actors are good, some are bad, the bad ones distract and take me out of the experience. The effects are outstanding at some points, but Lucas took big swings and he missed a few that really throw off the movie. The only emotional connection I found myself having with the movie was with the relationship between Qui-Gon Jinn and Obi-Wan Kenobi. The rest is soured by subpar acting and even more subpar dialogue and pacing.… Expand
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5
BobbyAxelrodFeb 2, 2021
In the first half of the movie you are essentially watching a children's Star Wars movie. It was incredibly slow paced and the negatives outweighed the positives. The movie tried to be funny at various points but just came across as flat. TheIn the first half of the movie you are essentially watching a children's Star Wars movie. It was incredibly slow paced and the negatives outweighed the positives. The movie tried to be funny at various points but just came across as flat. The second half of the movie was much better but still nothing to celebrate. I have mixed thoughts on this movie.… Expand
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6
MaddoxWhiteApr 25, 2021
This is just so slow, and doesn't even have that many ironically funny moments, unlike the 3rd movie. Darth Maul scene is obviously good tho.
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5
Star_Wars_FanApr 28, 2021
The Phantom Menace could have been a decent movie, if it weren’t for issues such as annoying characters, awful dialogue, and *sigh*, a focus on politics.
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5
M7AMDDec 13, 2022
I always avoided anything related to Star Wars since i didnt understand it, so i decided to give it a chance and after some quick search they recommended this is the first movie to watch in order, i will be honest im quite disappointed iI always avoided anything related to Star Wars since i didnt understand it, so i decided to give it a chance and after some quick search they recommended this is the first movie to watch in order, i will be honest im quite disappointed i expected something much better than this considering all the hype people have for the Star Wars movies, these some nice visuals when you compare it to movies at that time but what i found this movie lacking is a good and strong story to keep you interested. another thing to mention is the movie is a little bit long for this story i was forcing myself to keep watching after maybe 1 hour into it, they should have ended it early and not dragged it for 2 hours!

i might give Star Wars another try but that was a bad start for me.… Expand
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6
ChristmasLoverAug 4, 2021
It’s pretty good I know that everyone hates this movie cause of Jar Jar but in my opinion I like him the movie is slow but it’s still pretty good
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6
Roguejedi92Sep 22, 2021
Menace is not without its merits but does come out of Lucas’ misguided view what makes Star Wars great. Lucas’ vision for Vader’s background unfortunately begins with what feels like more filler than necessary story and character development.Menace is not without its merits but does come out of Lucas’ misguided view what makes Star Wars great. Lucas’ vision for Vader’s background unfortunately begins with what feels like more filler than necessary story and character development. While TPM has a pretty straight forward plot, but it gets bogged down in stilted dialogue and some odd inclusions such as the goofy - and often loathed- Jar Jar Binks. Menace makes up for some of its lackluster writing and robot like dialogue, with spectacular and impressive visuals, , including but not limited to, lightsaber battle with Darth Maul and the Jedi as well as the exciting podracing sequence. Liam Nesson’s Qui Gon Jinn is perhaps the most charismatic out of the cast and Ewan as Obi, while competent here, was a good choice because he really gets to shine in subsequent films. However Ewan is not really given much to here but wait on a ship. The Phantom Menace isn’t without its exciting moments and stellar visuals, but too much of it is bogged down with a less than stellar story and some robotic performances.… Expand
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6
TheSikvelSep 28, 2021
Although I don't like the Star Wars setting, the movie is good enough. Pretty cute movie suitable for viewers of all ages (mostly children and adolescents)
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5
JJ2FAS4UDec 30, 2021
----------------------------------4.8/10-----------------------------------
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5
XathiahsFeb 11, 2022
The most boring SW movie. Poor characters and slow plot developing. The lightsaber battles and the depiction of a young Anakin are the only interesting things.
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5
FionanMurphyAug 14, 2022
This is a bad movie, but its not as terrible as its successor
it is boring though and the only time i watch it is whehn I am showing a friend star wars for the first time
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4
JesseDillingerMay 4, 2023
It's just so lifeless and boring. The plot is overly confusing and Jar Jar is the most realistic character. HOW. Qui Gon isn't too bad, but he's still meh. I don't hate the movie, but it's very very weak and not even remotely entertaining
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5
Fixer84Mar 15, 2023
Basically a film that is almost useless. If most fans consider it non-canon there will be a reason. And the reason is that to watch it or not to watch it, practically nothing of the Star Wars saga is lost.
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5
DaG4mEJun 1, 2023
The Duel of the Fates is the only reason this is not lower. The story is ok at times.
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