Star Wars : Episode I - The Phantom Menace

”I can only protect you, I cannot fight a war for you.” – Qui Gon Jinn (“Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace” – 1999)

“Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace” was one of the most highly anticipated prequels of all time.  But when the movie was released in 1999, it was received with mixed reviews.  From the introduction of the character Jar Jar Binks (voice of Ahmed Best) and the casting of Jake Lloyd as a young Anakin Skywalker to the climatic light saber duel that pitted Qui-Gon Jinn (Liam Neeson) and Obi-Wan Kenobi (Ewan McGregor) against the Sith apprentice, Darth Maul (Ray Park), moviegoers either loved or hated the film.  So, while you’re trying to decide, here are a few movie blunders to help you through!

A Hairy Situation

Watch Obi-Wan’s braid throughout the movie and you’ll see it change position!  This is especially noticeable in two scenes.  The first, after landing on Naboo,when Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan first meet Jar Jar, Ben talks about how they will be crushed if they are found.  Keep a close eye and watch as the braid switches from his right to left in different shots.  Another scene is when they are getting parts for Queen Amidala’s (Natalie Portman) ship on Tatooine.  When talking to Qui-Gon, Obi-Wan remarks about picking up another “pathetic life form”.  Watch carefully and the braid will change sides again!

Toys Have a Mind of Their Own

When Anakin is in his room, packing to leave, watch the items on his bed closely.  From C-3PO’s (Anthony Daniels) point of view, you can see an item in the middle (resembling a toy fighter) that is pointing towards them.  In the next shot, the “toy” is pushed further back and is now pointed towards the wall.

Deep Inside, He’s Flesh and Blood

During most of the movie, Darth Maul’s neck is either covered or painted black.  However, during the scene when he and Darth Sidious (Ian McDiarmid) is talking and walking the corridor, in the close-up shot, you’ll notice his neck is sans paint.

Let’s See That Again

In the hangar before the podrace, keep an eye on what is going on behind Kitster (Dhruv Chanchani).  When Kitster talks about finishing the podrace, you’ll notice Qui-Gon walk up to an alien in the background.  In the very next shot sequence, you’ll see him do it all over again.

© 2005 by Tammy Cordani.  To use the above content you must first obtain written permission.  Please contact Tammy Cordani.  All rights reserved.