doesn't compare to Episodes 4, 5, and 6

Rating: 7/10 (1 September 1999)

Star Wars Episode 1: The Phantom Menace is the first of 6 Star Wars movies. We have already seen A New Hope, The Empire Strikes Back (the best out of all of them), and Return of the Jedi, Episodes 4, 5, and 6, respectively. The problem with Episode 1 is that it was more geared towards kids. We can all thank this to the very very annoying Jar Jar Binks. No matter how big a Star Wars fan you are, no one can like Jar Jar Binks. It is just that simple.
Another problem with Episode 1 is Anakin Skywalker, or Jake Lloyd. I know everyone should give the kid a break; after all, he is a kid, but he just downright sucked. He couldn't even act when he was cheering! That was a horrible casting job by Lucas and everyone else behind Episode 1.

There were some strong points to this movie also. A few to be named is the scenery in the movie, which was just absolutely spectacular. Also, Darth Maul. He was awesome, especially in the final showdown between him, Obi-Wan, and Qui-Gon Jinn. Also, Natalie Portman, who portrayed Queen Amidala, was very good in her role as the 14-year old Queen.
Not a great movie at all, but definitely worth a look, especially if you liked Episodes 4, 5, and 6. My grade: B-