Loyal Readers,

Today I come to sing praises about one of the most unfairly attacked movies of all time. That's right, I am talking about Episode I: The Phantom Menance. Six years later, and this poor movie is still getting torched left and right by "fanboys" and critics.

To each their own, I guess. However, I believe they are missing out on a really good movie.

Anyone who viewed either of my reviews of Episode III know that I consider Episode I the weakest of the bunch. Let me tell you this is a relative term. Although it is lower on my list than the other five, I still consider it one of my favorite movies of all time.

Although I could do with about 75% less Jar-Jar Binks, and I did not like the two-headed announcer at the pod-races, almost everything else is very enjoyable.

Some moments I really enjoy in the movie:

Qui-Gon's great line: "There's always a bigger fish"

The sounds of the pod-racers

Shmi telling Anakin to "Don't look back, Don't look back". This was good even before Eps II and III, and even more so now that the tale is complete.

Midichlorians. I know a lot of people have an undying and illogical hatred for these things, but I kind of dig them.

Watto. Every scene he is in was excellent. Made me believe he was real 3 years before Gollum even appeared in his full glory.

Coruscant: From our first visit to hear Maul and Sidious speak, to the departure of the Queen and her party to return to Naboo, Coruscant was excellent. I am in the vast minority who loved the senate scenes, watching Palpatine weave the first strands of his web of treachery.

"Now thats what I call podracing!"

The soundtrack. Although I enjoyed the OST, it wasn't until I purchased the UST that I truly appreciated the music of the movie. Duel of the Fates was awesome, and Anakin's theme was a beautiful twist on the Imperial March. One of my few complaints about Eps II and III was the lack of both themes.

Qui-Gon Jinn. As the only Jedi who seemed to get it with Anakin, his importance in the saga should not be underestimated.

The first meeting of Anakin & Padme, and the Japor Snippet scene: Were cute when the movie first came out, are very bittersweet now that Ep. III is out.

"I'll be watching your career with great interest."-Shadowy harbinger of the future.

Rick McCallum and Ben Burtt's emotional cameos as extras.

Qui-Gon's funeral. Jake Lloyds best acting, the establishment of the rule of two, and the excellent shot of Anakin, Obi-Wan, Padme, and Palpatine. Really sets up Episode III.

The end celebration. I love how deceptively cheerful the music is, hinting at who the real winner of the battle of Naboo was.

So here's to you, Epsiode I. Let it be known that not everyone considers you an abomination. Someday, may your true beauty be known world around.

Until next time...Godspeed!