‘The Phantom Menace’ dominated 1999’s box office. History has been kinder to it
LA TimesMay 19, 1999, in a galaxy not so far away. But instead of whatever they’d imagined, “Star Wars: Episode I — The Phantom Menace” involves a nefarious trade dispute, myth-altering midi-chlorians and Jar Jar Binks. “Star Wars’” most recent successes would not exist if not for “The Phantom Menace.” “The Phantom Menace” arrived saddled with many expectations. “We have tried hard not to let the film get over-hyped.... a film for 12-year-olds... a Saturday-afternoon serial for children.” From left, Natalie Portman, Liam Neeson, Jake Lloyd and Ewan McGregor in the movie “Star Wars: Episode I — The Phantom Menace.” Set roughly 30 years before the events of the original “Star Wars”, “The Phantom Menace” introduced audiences to a 9-year-old Anakin Skywalker, a child who would eventually grow up to become Darth Vader. Part of the reason “The Phantom Menace” has been increasingly embraced is because for a generation of fans, “Episode I” was their first “Star Wars” experience.
History of this topic
Hate "The Phantom Menace"? The Ewok Line theory could explain why
Salon
Jar Jar Binks actor Ahmed Best addresses his return to Star Wars universe in The Mandalorian episode 4
The IndependentDiscover Related
