As I keep trying to figure out with this blog should be. The one thing I keep going back to is how much time I spend in bed with hEDS. If you’re not sure what hEDS is click on the link provided. https://www.ehlers-danlos.com/
Due to this condition and having quite some down time I watch a lot of t.v. shows and movies. I try to read books but my mind tends to get very foggy and it’s hard to concentrate. The words on the page become blurry and the lines start to cross. Audiobooks have become a great way for me to still enjoy books now that reading had become increasingly more difficult. Enough about my disability and on to my first movie review.
When the first three episodes of Star Wars came out I stopped watching after the first two episodes. They were so terrible I couldn’t imagine myself watching the third installment of the Trilogy.
A Review of Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace
Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace, released in 1999. This movie was a highly anticipated return of the Star Wars saga after a 16-year hiatus. The first installment of the prequel trilogy aimed to set the stage for Anakin Skywalker’s story. It captured his heartbreaking fall to the dark side.
One of the highlights of The Phantom Menace is its visual spectacle. George Lucas, with the advancements in CGI technology, was capable of crafting a vibrant and imaginative galaxy. Unlike was ever done or conceived of before. The film also introduces some memorable new characters, most notably Darth Maul. His imposing design and minimal dialogue make him a standout villain. His incredible lightsaber skills lead to the “Duel of the Fates.” It is a breathtaking and meticulously choreographed lightsaber battle. This battle features Maul, Qui-Gon Jinn, and Obi-Wan Kenobi. This is widely regarded as one of the best lightsaber duels in the entire saga. Ewan McGregor’s portrayal of a young Obi-Wan Kenobi is also a bright spot. For those who know me, Ewan McGregor has never been a favorite actor of mine. But, seeing his incredible character growth through all three films was admirable. The last duel between Obi-Wan and Anikan is truly heartbreaking because you see and feel Obi-Wan’s pain. This is a trait that very few actors can achieve.
I like to write about love and stories that stand beyond the test of time. My favorite part of The Phantom Menace is a mother’s love for her son. Shmi Skywalker, a slave in poverty, has the opportunity to send her son away for Jedi training. She knows though that by doing this she will never see her son again. When I first watched this movie at the young age of twelve, I didn’t understand. I couldn’t perceive how hard that decision would be. Now, a mother myself, my heart is truly broken. I know that even today people face the difficult decision of giving up their children. They do this so that their children have a better future.
The Divisive:
My biggest criticism against The Phantom Menace centers on its narrative choices and certain character introductions.
In my opinion Jar Jar Binks proved to be incredibly annoying, racist, and tried way too hard to be silly. While his character was intended as comic relief, his slapstick humor and often stupid. There has always been a humor to George Lucas’ movies but in subtle ways. Jar Jar Binks was unnecessary.
Conclusion:
The Phantom Menace boasts stunning visual effects and one of the most iconic lightsaber duels in cinematic history. It not be the Star Wars film many fans hoped for. Nonetheless, it is an essential piece of the Skywalker saga. It offers a glimpse into the origins of a galaxy far, far away. It sparks endless debate among its passionate fan base. Despite its flaws, it laid the foundation for the rest of the prequel trilogy. It introduced new elements that fans continue to discuss and re-evaluate today.
