Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace ⏰

: The title primarily refers to Palpatine's unseen manipulation, but in the expanded "Legends" lore, it also describes the Sith's transition from open warfare to controlling the galaxy from the shadows.

: Over 90% of the film contains computer animation; only 12 minutes of the 133-minute runtime have no special effects. It was also the first major Hollywood release to utilize digital cameras (the Sony HDC-750) for various sequences. Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace

George Lucas returned to the director's chair after a 22-year hiatus, largely because he felt CGI technology had finally reached the point where he could realize his "grand, epic scale" vision. : The title primarily refers to Palpatine's unseen

: Jedi Master Qui-Gon Jinn and apprentice Obi-Wan Kenobi are dispatched to resolve a blockade on the planet Naboo, only to discover a secret invasion led by the Trade Federation and a shadowy Sith Lord, Darth Sidious. George Lucas returned to the director's chair after

: While post-production took roughly 20 months, principal photography lasted only 65 days. Sets were built at Leavesden Studios in England, while Tunisia stood in for the desert world of Tatooine. 📜 Core Plot & Themes

: While stranded on Tatooine, Qui-Gon encounters 9-year-old slave Anakin Skywalker, whose high "midichlorian" count leads Jinn to believe he is the prophesied "Chosen One".