The Worst Star Wars Movie Returning To Theaters For May The 4th

By Bradley Gammel | Published

The spectacle of producing and Darth Maul’s impactful dual against Qui-Gon Jinn and a young Obi-Wan Kenobi will grace theaters once more. Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace is scheduled to bring young Anakin Skywalker back to the big screen for fans to see the beginning of the Skywalker saga. It is a tale that has captivated fans since George Lucus’s original 1977 motion picture, Star Wars

The Phantom Menace Is Coming Back To Theaters

star wars jar jar

A tradition within the fan base is to celebrate the Star Wars franchise on May 4 during an event known as May the Fourth Be with You. The event will see The Phantom Menace return to theaters over the May 4 weekend, allowing fans to see the installment that began the prequel trilogy roughly 25 years ago. It is a controversial entry into the franchise and is often disputed as one of the series’ weakest entries.

The Prequel Trilogy Has Been Reevaluated

The Phantom Menace takes place before the events of the original trilogy, serving as the first installment in George Lucas’s prequel trilogy. The film follows the young Jedi Knight Qui-Gon Jinn and his apprentice, Obi-Wan Kenobi, who are sent to negotiate a trade dispute on Naboo. Amidst political intrigue, they encounter a young boy named Anakin Skywalker, who displays remarkable Force sensitivity.

Even The Bad Parts Are Now Appreciated

 As they navigate the schemes of the Sith Lord Darth Sidious and his apprentice Darth Maul, Qui-Gon believes that Anakin may be the Chosen One destined to bring balance to the Force. The film culminates in an epic lightsaber duel between the Jedi and Sith, setting the stage for the events that will shape the galaxy far away. Alongside introducing iconic characters like Anakin, Padmé Amidala, and Darth Maul, The Phantom Menace explores themes of destiny, corruption, and the eternal struggle between light and dark. 

After The Last Jedi Jar Jar Doesn’t Seem So Bad

Opinions on Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace vary, but some reasons for its mixed reception include criticisms of its pacing, dialogue, and certain characters, as well as disappointment with the creative choices made by writer and director George Lucas. Some fans felt that the film had focused more on political and trade disputes, detracting from the adventurous spirit of the original trilogy. Additionally, the character of Jar Jar Binks, introduced as comic relief, proved divisive among audiences, with some finding him endearing while others found him annoying or racially insensitive.

The Reception In 1999 Was Mixed To Put It Nicely

Adding to fans’ distaste for the entry was the use of computer-generated imagery (CGI), which was extensive and groundbreaking for its time. Still, some viewers felt it lacked the tangible charm of the practical effects used in the original trilogy. While The Phantom Menace has devoted fans and merits, its significant criticism is that it still finds some love from fans, equalling a mixed fanbase surrounding the film for its lightsaber battles and looking into the politics of a galaxy far, far away.

Despite mixed reception upon its release in 1999, the film remains an integral part of the Star Wars saga, laying the groundwork for the following epic tale.

Looking Back At The Amazing Cast

Liam Neeson Star Wars

Since its release, a new hope for The Phantom Menace has been discovered by many in the community and within its cast. Qui-Gon Jinn’s Liam Neeson, Obi-Wan Kenobi’s Ewan McGregor, and Padme Amadla’s Natalie Portman have all grown into household names since the film’s debut. Ewan McGregor even reprised his role as Obi-Wan Kenobi in the hit Disney+ series Kenobi.