The Phantom Menace

Rating: 8/10 (24 August 2013)

The Phantom Menace is much better than its reputation.
The film is actually quite well structured, several story lines work seamlessly hand in hand (Anakin's discovery, the Invasion, the appearance of the Sith etc.). The imagery is great and carries some great symbolism. Anakin's first step is well portray (he even has to make a real choice in contrast to Luke in Episode IV) and the roots of his fall are clearly visible. However, the film's main focus is on the Queen and her realization that the key of saving her world lies within herself and the power of her planet's people.
Jar Jar Binks is a bit irritating and annoying in the final battle. However, the light saber battle is well realized as a conflict of philosophies, portrayed through looks (develish Sith), body language (impatient and aggressive Sith, meditating Jedi etc.), music (church-like chorus), lighting that almost seems to envelop the combatants and a lot of wide shots that create a certain atmosphere of spirituality and clashing cultures.
There are some missteps (Jar Jar went out of control, a bit more Anakin would have been nice) but it's overall a wonderful piece of visual filmmaking with a great variety of costumes, architecture and design.
8 stars.