DEFINITELY WORTH IT

Rating: 10/10 (19 May 1999)

Though almost all movies hyped as much as "The Phantom Menace" are bound to be disappointing, this movie actually delivers. The acting had been criticized as flat in initial reviews, while it was actually very involving, and similar to the style in episodes IV-VI that made them so popular. The critics should remember that episode IV got bad initial reviews as well. The special effects are obviously king here, and they are spectacular; however, the acting keeps the movie going. There was never a dull moment, and despite the somewhat-on-the-long-side length of "The Phantom Menace," (130 minutes) I never once found myself looking at my watch. Do not go to this movie expecting a life-changing experience, but it is definitely worth going to as a very entertaining and well-made movie, sure to break all kinds of box-office records.