It may not be the best "Star Wars" movie but it is a breathtaking joyride from beginning to end!!!

Rating: 10/10 (15 May 1999)

"Star Wars: Episode One-The Phantom Menace" has everything in it that you would expect from a "Star Wars" movie: Spectacular special effects, tons of action, great characters, and kid-friendly humor. I walked into the theater with my expectations down because of the so so reviews it had gotten from the critics, but I walked out of the theater with a glimmer in my eyes and a big, silly grin on my face. I absolutely loved this movie. And no matter what everyone says, Jar Jar Binks is not annoying. Well, okay, he started to get on my nerves a couple of times but I still loved him. He made me laugh a a few times, too. All of the actors in this film were great, especially Liam Neeson. He may not win any Oscars for this movie but his performance in this movie blows away the performances by all of the actors in the original trilogy. Jake Lloyd is a lot better than everyone would lead you to believe him to be. I was quite surprised that a 9 year old boy could act that good. He was terrific. The script of the movie is on par with the best "Star Wars" film, "The Empire Strikes Back". But this movie is more like "Return of the Jedi" that the other movies. The movie could have been a little more serious than it was. Not that I am complaining, though. "Return of the Jedi" was an outstanding movie, even though it was somewhat childish. Same here with "The Phantom Menace". But isn't that what "Star Wars" is all about? The movies are made to appeal to the likes of kids. But I seriously doubt that the kids who this film will fully understand the adult-like plot. I myself found it a little confusing at times. But you really don't have to understand EVERYTHING to enjoy this movie. Just sit back and relax and prepared to blown away. I give "Star Wars: Episode One" an A+.