A flawed film to be sure, but not nearly as bad as a lot of people make it out to be.

Rating: 6/10 (5 February 2014)

Even for someone who loves Star Wars as much as any other fan who manages to enjoy the prequels, this film still disappoints to some degree. The characters aren't as interesting, (a few of them borderline annoying) the plot drags in it's 2nd act, the dialogue isn't great, and the acting is mostly wooden. (with the exception of an always enjoyable Liam Neeson and to a certain degree, Ewan McGregor) But even then, this film has it's positives.
Quite possibly the best thing about "The Phantom Menace" is its ability to contrast. For every Jar Jar Binks, there is a Darth Maul, for every boring scene consisting of confusing politics, there is a rousing Lightsaber or Space battle. (or even a Podrace) It's these things that save "The Phantom Menace" from being a complete and total disaster. (even though it is to some) Add one of the best (and most underrated in my opinion) John Williams scores, and it amounts to an interesting experience. While it's still second-rate Star Wars, it's still a decent watch, one that's more often-than-not enjoyable.
Even though the flaws are there and there are one or two plot-holes. (why would Qui-Gon take Jar Jar with them through the planet core if the Force could guide them?) This is, in my opinion, an enjoyable film that contains as much Star Wars magic as the prequels could ever achieve, and a film that overall, I could watch and enjoy 2 or 3 times a year.
6.8/10