Star Wars: The Phantom Menace Released
1999 · 20th Century
Star Wars: Episode I — The Phantom Menace premiered on May 19, 1999, sixteen years after the original trilogy concluded. Written and directed by George Lucas, the film served as the first installment of a prequel trilogy exploring events prior to the 1977 original. Produced by Lucasfilm with a budget of approximately $115 million, it employed digital effects and CGI character animation. The film grossed over $1 billion worldwide across its theatrical runs.
Key Figures
George LucasRick McCallumLiam NeesonEwan McGregorNatalie Portman
Locations
20th Century Fox StudiosLeavesden Film StudiosRoyal Palace of CasertaTunisia (Star Wars filming locations)
Topics
artspecial effectsscience fictionmoviesfilm industryblockbusters
Connected Events — 2 Connections
The Phantom Menace launched the prequel trilogy; Attack of the Clones continued the narrative of Anakin Skywalker fall from the Jedi Order Star Wars: Episode II - Attack of the Clones Released
Original trilogy commercial success and enduring cultural presence led Lucas to develop the prequel trilogy beginning with The Phantom Menace 16 years after Return of the Jedi Star Wars: Return of the Jedi Released
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