Sadly an underrated film

Rating: 8/10 (23 September 2018)

Nearly 20 years has gone by, and in nearly 20 years I still don't understand the hatred this film received.
Before the film came out, everyone knew it was going to be a prequel set years before the events of the original. And it was set back in an era before the wars tore the Republic apart.
Of course it was going to be a different Star Wars film. Sadly, a lot of people didn't understand that and went off there heads demanding blood and vengeance from George Lucas.
With the abuse George received from this movie, I honestly don't blame him for selling everything in 2012. He did not 'rape' anyone's childhood. All he did was make a movie. He did not deserve the hatred and vitriol he received.
I think out of the three prequels, this one was the most beautifully shot. We were introduced to several new characters as well as seeing familiar characters when they were younger. And don't get me started on Jar Jar. I am not the biggest fan of the character but he was not as bad as so many people made him out to be. He served his purpose in the film.
The acting in the film was honestly not the best. But far superior to Attack Of The Clones. Though I do think Liam Neeson, Ewan McGregor and Ian McDiarmid were fantastic and stood out amongst the others.
The film had many memorable moments from the pod races on Naboo to the amazingly choreographed lightsaber duel between Kenobi, Qui-Gon and Maul. Speaking of Maul, he may not have spoke much but he made his mark on the movie.
I still remember the hype before this movie came out and how excited I was. And I still get excited and remember the feeling every time I watch the movie. I have never experienced a moment in time in which I was beyond excited for a movie. Nowadays we have Star Wars movies on a regular basis. Back in 1999 this was the first Star Wars movie in years. The hype was indeed real.
So please ignore most of the negative comments on here. This film is quite good.