As 'Star Wars: The Phantom Menace' celebrates its 25th anniversary, it's time to look beyond the criticisms and acknowledge the elements that the film got right. Despite the teeth-gnashing aspects that have been discussed for years, there are several key aspects that have had a lasting impact on the 'Star Wars' franchise.
1. The Emperor’s Long Game
The concept of Palpatine/Darth Sidious undermining the Republic from within set the stage for the intricate power play between the Sith and the Jedi, laying the foundation for the saga's overarching conflict.
2. Digital Effects
While the emphasis on visual effects sometimes overshadowed other aspects, George Lucas pushed the boundaries of digital effects, paving the way for the grandeur of future action sequences in the franchise.
3. Mace Windu
Samuel L. Jackson's portrayal of Mace Windu may have been brief in the first film, but the character became a significant part of 'Star Wars' lore, showcasing Jackson's talent and adding depth to the Jedi Order.
4. Darth Maul
Darth Maul, brought to life by Ray Park, remains one of the most visually striking characters in the series, with his iconic double-sided lightsaber leaving a lasting impression and leading to his revival in subsequent stories.
5. Casting Ewan McGregor and Liam Neeson
Finding the right actors to portray key characters like Obi-Wan Kenobi and Qui-Gon Jinn was crucial, and McGregor and Neeson brought gravitas to their roles, anchoring the prequel trilogy with their performances.
6. The Lightsaber Duels
The lightsaber duel between Darth Maul and Qui-Gon Jinn/Obi-Wan Kenobi set a new standard for choreography and intensity in 'Star Wars' battles. This iconic scene, accompanied by John Williams' masterful score, elevated lightsaber combat to a whole new level, influencing future fight sequences in the franchise.
While 'Star Wars: The Phantom Menace' may have its flaws, these elements have stood the test of time and continue to shape the 'Star Wars' universe. As the film returns to theaters for its anniversary, fans can appreciate the lasting impact of these creative choices that have enriched the galaxy far, far away.
'Star Wars: The Phantom Menace' will be screening in select theaters starting May 3, inviting audiences to revisit the film and rediscover the positives that have contributed to the enduring legacy of the franchise.
