Top FIVE The Phantom Menace Moments!
But Nick, there are no good moments in this film and the rest of the prequel trilogy, I hear you say. Yes, the next couple months I will be picking my favorite moments from three films that are despised by many and completely divided the fanbase. First up, the film that had immense hype back in 1999 and disappointed many, the Phantom Menace. Yes, the film is not that great, yes, Jar Jar and the Midichlorians are beyond stupid. That doesn't mean there isn't any good to them.
5. The opening escape
The first scene in the film, it starts slow, but eventually builds to a pretty cool sequence revolving around a young Obi-Wan Kenobi and his master Qui-Gon Jinn. This sequence showcases just how powerful a pair of Jedi can be and sets the tone for the rest of the film...for better or for worse.
4. The Podrace
What many people consider to be one of the highlights of the film, the podracing scene is held fondly by many younger fans and fans who grew up watching the movie. I'll admit, the scene was pretty much set up to sell toys and video games and could have been shortened. Regardless, it still is a cool sequence that is filled with tension, suspense and admit it, if podracing existed in real life, you would want to try it, wouldn't you?
3. Escape from Naboo
I don't know why, but I like the extended sequence of the Jedi and Naboo delegates escaping the planet and the blockade. I like how badass the Jedi are, I like the interactions between the Jedi and the Naboo crew, and it is our first re-introduction to R2 who comes in and saves the day at the last minute. Basically, the scene, from tone to execution, reminds me greatly of some of the tense and close-scaled moments from the original trilogy. To me, it's just a fun sequence to watch.
2. The Battle of Naboo
To clarify, I'm including the battle between the Gungans and battle droids, the battle in the castle, and the space battle near the droid control ship. When Lucas made this film, he obviously had access to new and updated film equipment, allowing him to up the ante. Granted, while most of the CGI doesn't hold up that well today, the Battle of Naboo is still fun and entertaining. Also, unlike a lot of people, I personally gave a shit about most of the characters and how they were going to overcome the odds. Plus, I hate to say this, but this battle is the only time I ever thought Jar Jar was funny or entertaining. Yes, I know it's stupid, but I am being honest.
Honorable Mentions
Now, before the obvious number one, here are some honorable mentions. Pretty much every brief scene with Darth Sidious and Darth Maul, particularly the first fight between Qui-Gon and Maul. I also like the ending celebration and...spoiler alert...the funeral of Qui-Gon. Finally, I like the introduction to Coruscant. Many people hate the scenes on the planet but you have to admit, the design of the planet is awesome.
1. Duel of the Fates
I mean, come on, you all knew this would be number one. How can this not be number one? This is not only considered by many fans to be the only good scene in the movie, but many people consider this to be one of, if not the best duel in the franchise. Yeah, I am of course talking about the final climatic duel between Jedi and Sith, Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon vs. Darth Maul. While it's not my favorite duel from the films, it's pretty damn good. The fighting, awesome, the set-pieces, awesome, one of the best pieces of music by John Williams ever in Duel of the Fates...yep, just epic. This scene has it all, great action, dramatic tension, heartbreak at the loss of Qui-Gon, and the victory and supposed death of Maul. This scene is 18 years old, and it still holds up as one of the best scenes of the franchise.
Overall, I can still see why people would be both love and hate this movie. I think my position on this movie is changing as I honestly think Attack of the Clones is the worst film the saga now. Still, it's not a great film, but I think its enjoyable in its own right.
