1 down, 2 to go

Rating: 7/10 (14 September 2001)

Episode I was just what I expected it would be; the beginning. I know there are several out there who condemn Episode I because it did not live up to the first three installments. I agree. It was not even close to being as epic as the other three. But you have to remind yourself, the first three was years after Episode I. Star Wars is a story from a book. The first chapter is almost always spent introducing characters and developing scenes and plot. Take, for example Tolken's "The Hobbit". The first couple chapters, some would say, bore us with so many names and events, its overwhelming. But that is what makes it worth while in the end. Which is what we have all already experienced with Episodes IV, V and VI. However, Episode I seems complex due to the fact that, because of the first three, there are several unanswered questions and one gets the feeling Lucas is cranking this one out to start on Episode II.
I loved this movie. One thing I did that may be helpful for those of you out there is not to watch any promos. Stay away from all the trailers. Go into the movie not knowing much at all about it. Lets face it, we all already have our own expectation for what we should be seeing. Don't let the ads create new ones. It is my firm belief that promotion ads and marketing can sink a movie.
Before I end, I do need to add one thing. Couldn't they have found someone better to play Aniken. Every time this kid opens his mouth, my skin crawls. Oh, and a little less Jar Jar on my movie burger thanks. Too much tends to come back and haunt me later.