The legend begins...

Rating: 9/10 (5 June 1999)

Wow, I wish I could have Lucas' job. Scene after scene of just sitting there thinking 'what can i create now?'. He is someone who is obviously so enthralled with creating new worlds at every turn. One can't help but be amazed at each new idea he brings to fruition.
I love the movie. But it's not the same as the first three. One has a definite sense that they are watching legendary characters fulfilling their destinies. There is also the 'cutsie factor' of Jar Jar and the obvious kids appeal of the young main character.
On a technical point of view the film is bulletproof. Only Cameron, Spielberg and Lucas can pull this off when they want to. At every turn, we are presented with extraordinary situations, unusual characters and improbable circumstances. But we never stand up and say 'oh that was stupid' or 'that would never happen'. Why, because he fleshes out these preposterous ideas so well. The senate council chamber, the pod race... In the hands of any other director, guys running around with big glowing sticks would be silly. Yet the final lightsaber duel is nothing short of spectacular.
I think the poor reviews are really not a surprize or something to worry about. The fans love it. Many reviewers are still sitting on the sidelines not getting it. While likely when they saw the first series, they didn't get that either, but now reference them as classics simply because of growing support over the years. Were the first ones to be released now, they would likely can them too.
All I can say is thank god it's doing so well at the box office, I can't wait for the net installment.