⭐⭐⭐⭐½ðŸ’–
According to traditional machete order, the next movie after "The Empire Strikes Back" is "Attack of the Clones". "Return of the Jedi" will come later.
Traditional machete order completely skips "The Phantom Menace", which I believe is tragic (skipping it, not the movie itself). It is probably the most hated Star Wars movie. That assessment of it has never made sense to me. It's one of my favorites and I believe it is important to the overall Star Wars story. So I chose to watch it next.
I am going to approach this review differently. Since it is so hated, I am going to list 23 reasons why I respectfully disagree. In no specific order, here is why I love "The Phantom Menace":
1. This is the movie where Luke's and Leia's parents meet. It is a major part of the Skywalker story.
2. I happen to adore Jar Jar Binks.
3. We see more of Yoda, arguably the most iconic Star Wars character.
4. We get to know young Anakin, which begins the evolution of another iconic character.
5. Contrary to popular opinion, I believe Jake Lloyd nailed the role of young Anakin.
6. Qui-Gon Jinn is an amazing character who is strong with the Force.
7. The Duel of Fates battle is epic.
8. A defining moment for Obi-Wan Kenobi is when he kills Darth Maul.
9. Obi-Wan Kenobi's character shines through his faithfulness to Qui-Gon and young Anakin.
10. We find out who created C-3PO and how he meets his bud, R2-D2.
11. There are some memorable quotes in Episode 1.
12. The scenery is a feast for my eyes.
13. The journey to the underwater city is so much fun!
14. The overall creativity continues.
15. Rated PG, it's suitable for adults and children alike.
16. The elaborate costumes are stunning.
17. The podrace is fun to watch, with Anakin in the driver's seat.
18. Amidst all the action, there is also some comic relief.
19. It has stood the test of time. I enjoy it as much today as I did the first time I watched it.
20. Padmé is a fierce woman who gets her time to shine in this movie.
21. The music makes me feel the action.
22. Qui-Gon's death scene is poignant.
23. Palpatine being elected Chancellor at the end is significant in the saga.
A few items on the list are true for other Star Wars movies as well, but they're worth mentioning here because they help make Episode 1 what it is. It isn't the epic masterpiece that "The Empire Strikes Back" is, but it is still a great movie worth watching. I recommend not omitting this from any Star Wars marathon. If you've never seen it, watch it again, ignore the reviews and judge for yourself. If you've already seen it and didn't like it, give it another chance. It's the kind of movie that could grow on you.
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