The Phantom Menace

Rating: Null/10 (1 June 1999)

Limited thrills and excitement in this highly anticipated return to the phenom (conglomerate may be more appropriate) known as Star Wars. Lucas is big on effects, effects that were exciting 20 years ago, but are now outlived and overworked. Phantom Menace is short on story as well. It just doesn't have the same appeal as the original. The cast has its mix. Neeson and McGregor are effective as Jedi Knights, while Lloyd suffers horribly from the obvious clash in acting styles with the more able Neeson and McGregor. Portman is dull as Queen Amidala, but then again, Queen Amidala is dull. The rest of the characters lack the appeal and fun of the original players. Jar-Jar Binks has its moments, but his character seems more into the schtick and not into the major focus of the story. While I did not find the character annoying, I did find him quite pointless to the scope and theme of the film. Darth Maul was quite menacing to look at, so why wasn't he given any significant dialogue? He was quite imposing and added to the only exciting aspect of the film, a superb fight sequence that was obviously given much attention; too bad I cannot say that for the rest of the film. Wuth this return to Star Wars, one has to ask director Lucas this question: Why make this movie? Money? For the countless numbers of fans who sat up until and well past the midnight hour to get tickets to the opening show? Who knows? It will make money. Lots of money. All I'm saying is that if you're going to bring back the thrills from 20 years ago...do that! Bring back the thrills. Bring back the characters we love. Frankly, I could care less about the development of Anakin Skywalker into Darth Vader. George? Get to the good stuff. You got two more films to go...don't disappoint.