It’s hard to believe that it has been 25 years since George Lucas’ Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace first graced our screens. Now, Disney is preparing to re-release this iconic film on May 3, just in time for fans to celebrate Star Wars day on May the 4th.
As part of the special screenings of “The Phantom Menace,” fans will be treated to an exclusive sneak peek at Disney+ and Lucasfilm’s new series, Star Wars: The Acolyte. This exciting new show is set to take place 100 years before the events of Phantom Menace, giving viewers a deeper look into the rich lore of the Star Wars universe.
In addition to the re-release of The Phantom Menace, Star Wars fans have even more to look forward to with the announcement of the next Star Wars Celebration. This event is set to take place at Makuhari Messe in Chiba, Japan in April 2025. Tickets for this highly anticipated gathering will go on sale on May 2nd, giving fans the chance to immerse themselves in the world of Star Wars.
The Phantom Menace introduced viewers to a whole new generation of beloved characters, including Ewan McGregor as the young Obi Wan Kenobi, Liam Neeson as the wise Jedi Master Qui-Gon Jinn, Natalie Portman as the courageous Queen Amidala, and Ian McDiarmid as the manipulative Senator Palpatine. Not to mention, the film also featured memorable performances by Ahmed Best as the quirky Jar Jar Binks and Jake Lloyd as the young Anakin Skywalker.
Upon its release in May 1999, The Phantom Menace took the world by storm, grossing an incredible $1 billion at the global box office, with $474.5 million coming from domestic ticket sales alone. Despite mixed reviews from critics, the film was a massive commercial success and solidified its place as a pivotal chapter in the Star Wars saga.
The enduring legacy of Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace continues to captivate audiences even after 25 years. With the upcoming re-release, new series, and exciting events on the horizon, it’s clear that the Force is still strong with this iconic franchise.