For real Star Wars fans only---8/10

Rating: 8/10 (28 July 2001)

While critics and purists alike were bashing Phantom Menace, real Star Wars fans like myself were jumping for joy as a new adventure in that galaxy far, far away hit the big screen. The film tells the story of the younger Obi-wan Kenobi and how he and his Master Qui-Gon discover a ten year old Anakin Skywalker. Ewan McGregor fits in Obi-wan's boots very nicely and Liam Neeson is perfect as Jedi Master Qui-Gon Jinn. But the real star here is Darth Maul, played by the extraordinary Ray Park. With his double-edged lightsaber, gravity-defying acrobatics, and wicked Sith tattoos, Maul clocks in as one of the baddest villains in the Star Wars universe. The handicap lightsaber fight near the end of the film is the best in the saga (although this might change with Episode III). And of course i have to mention John Williams amazing new score. Star Wars just wouldn't be the same without it's wonderful music.
Now, there are some problems, i will admit. Jar Jar Binks is annoying as hell. I guess kids like him, though. I also didn't like how characters kept accidentally beating the enemy, like when a blaster gets caught on Jar Jar's foot and keeps firing or how Anakin is just pushing random buttons in his fighter and blew up a whole ship.
These are annoying but forgivable flaws in an otherwise great adventure. Cynics be damned, Star Wars still rules!--8/10