Kids Film Review: Star Wars Episode 1 The Phantom Menace

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Each week FILMCLUB will be bringing you reviews of the latest and classic DVD releases that feature on the charity’s 4,000 strong catalogue.

And so you know exactly whether you’ll like it or not, the reviews come from kids just like you!

And if you fancy another review, then check out our full list of reviews right here!

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This weekend sees the cinema re-release of the first episode of one of the biggest film series of all time – Star Wars.

Episode I introduces us to Obi Wan Kenobi, Anakin Skywalker as well as the droids R2D2 and C3P0 and a host of other famous characters who appear across the six films which make up the Star Wars saga. For those who missed Episode I the first time around this is a chance to enjoy its amazing special effects and CGI in amazing 3D – look out for the amazing pod racing scene jumping out of the screen!

Check out these FILMCLUB members’ reviews to find out what they think!

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James, age 10: β€œStar Wars the Phantom Menace is a great film. The film was jam packed with adventure and excitement. The best bit was when Anakin Skywalker (child) is in a pod race and he is the only person ever who can pod race and he the raining champion. My favourite person was Jar Jar Binks, I also liked Obi One Kenobi, as well as the droids. I would give it 5/5. I would recommend the film to people who like this type of film.”

Rating: 5 out of 5

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Liam, age 16: β€œThe Fourth Film of the Star Wars saga is a fantastic, epic adventure. I love the effects which differ from the first three movies as this was made in 1999 and the three other films were made in the late 70’s to early 80’s. But the events in this film is never a dull moment, every scene is so interesting.”

Rating: 5 out of 5

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Aiden, age 7; β€œ5 stars DEFINITELY 5 this is my favourite film it’s amazing. This film is adventurous, thrilling and I didn’t move throughout the film as I was so entertained.”

Rating: 5 out of 5

Elliot, age 10: β€œI really liked this film because it has lots of action battle scenes. My favourite character in this was Sebulba and his pod racer. This film is one of my favourites.”

Rating: 5 out of 5

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Joe, age 14: β€œThis 1999 film, Star Wars the Phantom Menace, is the film that restarted the Star Wars craze across the world. The film is superb and full of fun and action. As a huge Star Wars fan its not my favourite but the special effects and scripting are very good.

I find myself finding it hard to believe that this film was made in 1999 because, as like Episode 4, it set a new benchmark for filmmaking.

The casting is almost perfect and I was glad to see that Frank Oz, Kenny Baker and Anthony Damiles were back from the original trilogy. Everybody was great in it especially Liam Neeson, Qui-Gon -Jin, how played the wise noble Jedi very well.

The only criticism I have and which I have with every Star Wars film I’ve seen is the casting of the Skywalkers. Like mother like son the Skywalkers acting was either over acted or under acted just like Mark Hammel in the original trilogy.

Yoda voice was acted superbly as per usual but Yodas special effects made him look immobile and plastic unlike the puppet and the later animated Yoda. However whatever criticism I have this film is fun, action packed, modern and a great start to the Star Wars prequel.”

Rating: 5 out of 5

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Seems pretty unanimous then – this film is a hit! So surely in 3D will make it even better? Star Wars Episode 1: Phantom Menace 3D is out in cinemas now!

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About FILMCLUB

FILMCLUB is a nationwide education charity and experts in film for young people. The initiative offers access to thousands of popular and classic films from around the world for young people and teachers to watch and discuss in their school film clubs.

Visit www.filmclub.org for more information.

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