Popcorn fun. 8/10

Rating: 8/10 (12 May 2002)

Lets get a few things straight here, I have never been one of those film buffs who worships the "original" trilogy. The only exceptional film of the bunch is The Empire Strikes Back, the other ones are just perfectly fun popcorn flicks. That is exactly what Star Wars: Episode 1 - The Phantom Menace is -- fun. It's imperfect as hell, has terrible dialogue at times, and a story that is WAY too pertinacious. I almost forgot about the little Omen in it (by the name of Jake Lloyd) who just so happens to be one of the worst child actors I have ever seen. However, one can't ignore the pluses, and there are just enough positives to make this film a better then average summer blockbuster.
First, it's hard to dislike a film that's this gorgeous. I am a huge fan of eye candy. I like to be transported to worlds I have never seen and that's exactly what Phantom Menace does. It's also fun, in a silly goofy sort of way, but in my opinion, that's what Star Wars has always been about. Overall, sure it might be disappointing for those expecting the second coming of Christ. For a movie however, it's solid and FUN entertainment that comes in the simplest form.