Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace is a 1999 American epic space opera film written and directed by George Lucas. It is the fourth film in the Star Wars series, the prequel trilogy's first film, and the first chronological chapter of the "Skywalker Saga". The film stars Liam Neeson, Ewan McGregor, Natalie Portman, Jake Lloyd, Ahmed Best, Ian McDiarmid, Anthony Daniels, Kenny Baker, Pernilla August, and Frank Oz.
The movie's plot follows Jedi Master Qui-Gon Jinn and his apprentice Obi-Wan Kenobi as they try to protect Queen Padmé Amidala of Naboo in hopes of securing a peaceful end to an interplanetary trade dispute. Joined by Anakin Skywalker, a young slave with extreme natural powers of the Force, they simultaneously contend with the mysterious return of the Sith.
The movie received mixed reviews from critics and audiences, with some praising its visual effects and action sequences, while others criticized its dialogue and characters. Despite this, it was a commercial success and paved the way for the rest of the prequel trilogy.
Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace is an important movie in the Star Wars franchise, as it sets up the backstory for the original trilogy and introduces key characters such as Anakin Skywalker and Darth Sidious.
Cast
- Liam Neeson as Qui-Gon Jinn
- Ewan McGregor as Obi-Wan Kenobi
- Natalie Portman as Padmé Amidala
- Jake Lloyd as Anakin Skywalker
- Ian McDiarmid as Palpatine
- Anthony Daniels as C-3PO (voice)
- Kenny Baker as R2-D2
- Pernilla August as Shmi Skywalker
- Frank Oz as Yoda (voice)
In addition to the main cast, there were many other actors and crew members involved in the making of the movie, including visual effects artists, animatronic designers, and stunt performers.
Director: George Lucas
Writer: George Lucas
Box Office (Gross USA): $1,027,082,707
Distributor: 20th Century Fox
Genre: Sci-fi, Adventure, Action, Fantasy
Release Date (Theaters): May 19, 1999
Rerelease Date (Theaters): Dec 3, 1999
Release Date (Streaming): Apr 10, 2015
