Worth watching

Rating: Null/10 (3 January 2000)

As a fan of the original Star Wars movies, I was quite excited about the release of the prequels. However, being reliant upon the original success of the movie in order to revive the phenomenon sixteen years later was a bit of a stretch. It was hard to watch the movie without feeling reminiscent for some of the legendary classic characters; e.g Luke Skywalker, Han Solo, Princess Leia, Chewbacca. In general, they didn't make such a bad effort, although the sequencing in later years will definitely look a bit strange.

The new cast of "The Phantom Menace" did have an impossible task to live up to, and they should be commended for their efforts. Notably Liam Neeson, Natalie Portman and Ewan McGregor. Jar Jar Binks was nothing more than an intrusion, but is still tolerable, and the return of R2-D2, Threepio and Yoda brings back fond memories. I did not however, encounter any stand out performances.
Screenplay wise, I thought it was a little weak. It perhaps is a little tired after three Star Wars serials, but unlike "The Blair Witch Project" there will be an audience to next movies that will hopefully by then turn a profit.
Of course, the sound and special effects were excellent. This should mean automatic Oscar nominations. The score was pretty good as well, but nothing marvellous.
It is without a doubt still watching for everyone. Good entertainment for the generally undemanding circles. But if the movie you're after requires a bit more than special effects and battle scenes, you'd be doing yourself a favour to pick a different movie.
Personally, I hope George Lucas gives up before he embarrasses himself like the makers of "The Blair Witch Project".
Rating: 8/10 (And that's being a bit generous)