Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace

Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace

Year: 1999

Runtime: 136 min

Language: English

Director: George Lucas

ActionAdventureSci-FiFantasy

On desert planet Tatooine, a heroic rescue mission sets in motion an epic adventure. Young Anakin Skywalker, strong in the Force, wins his freedom in a heart-pumping Podrace and joins Jedi Qui-Gon Jinn on a quest to save Queen Amidala's kingdom from invasion. As they face off against the sinister Sith, heroes rise and fall in a thrilling battle between good and evil.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace (1999)
Trace every key event in Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace (1999) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.
1

Blockade of Naboo

The Galactic Republic faces turmoil as the Trade Federation, manipulated by the Sith Lord Darth Sidious, imposes a blockade around the peaceful planet of Naboo. This act of aggression disrupts trade and escalates tensions within the Republic, signaling the start of a larger conflict.

Naboo
2

Jedi Negotiation Attempt

Supreme Chancellor Finis Valorum dispatches Jedi Master Qui-Gon Jinn and his apprentice Obi-Wan Kenobi to negotiate with Viceroy Nute Gunray. Instead of a peaceful resolution, they are met with hostility as Sidious commands Gunray to kill the Jedi, leading to their narrow escape from the Trade Federation's clutches.

Trade Federation Ship
3

Meeting Jar Jar Binks

On their way to Naboo, Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan encounter Jar Jar Binks, a clumsy Gungan outcast. After saving him from danger, they forge an alliance, securing Jar Jar's help to navigate the underwater routes to Theed, the capital of Naboo.

Underwater routes to Theed
4

Landing on Tatooine

While trying to escape the blockade, the Royal Starship sustains damage, forcing the group to land on Tatooine for repairs. The arid planet presents new challenges as they seek help from local inhabitants and discover hidden talents.

Tatooine
5

Meeting Anakin Skywalker

In the bustling settlement of Mos Espa, Qui-Gon meets Anakin Skywalker, a young slave with incredible piloting skills. Qui-Gon senses Anakin's strong connection to the Force, believing him to be the prophesied 'Chosen One' destined to bring balance to the Force.

Mos Espa, Tatooine
6

Podrace for Freedom

To win Anakin's freedom and secure the parts needed for their ship, Qui-Gon wagers on a high-stakes podrace. Against all odds, Anakin triumphs, securing his release from servitude and solidifying Qui-Gon's belief in his connection to the Force.

Mos Espa, Tatooine
7

Attack by Darth Maul

On their way back to the ship, Qui-Gon, Obi-Wan, and their allies are ambushed by Darth Maul, Sidious's apprentice. A fierce lightsaber duel ensues, showcasing their skills and the dark threat posed by the Sith.

Tatooine
8

Seeking Jedi Council Approval

Upon reaching Coruscant, Qui-Gon requests the Jedi Council's approval to train Anakin. The Council expresses skepticism due to Anakin's potential vulnerability to the dark side; however, Qui-Gon is resolute in his decision to mentor the boy.

Jedi Temple, Coruscant
9

Vote of No Confidence

Senator Palpatine advises Amidala to motion for a vote of no confidence against Chancellor Valorum. The Senate's corruption frustrates her, leading to the election of a new leader, reflecting the wider political machinations at play in the Republic.

Senate, Coruscant
10

Return to Naboo

Emboldened by her new political power, Amidala decides to return to Naboo to confront the Trade Federation. With the Jedi's assistance, they aim to unite the Gungans and the Naboo to combat the droid army.

Naboo
11

Alliance with the Gungans

Upon returning to Naboo, Amidala reveals her identity as the queen and successfully unites the Gungans to fight against the Trade Federation. Jar Jar is appointed as a general, marking a pivotal moment of alliance between the two groups.

Naboo
12

Anakin's Starfighter Mission

During the battle, Anakin inadvertently activates the autopilot on a starfighter and finds himself in the midst of the conflict. His unexpected actions lead to the destruction of the droid control ship, massively shifting the tide of battle.

Theed, Naboo
13

Final Confrontation with Darth Maul

A climactic lightsaber duel occurs in Theed Palace between Qui-Gon, Obi-Wan, and Darth Maul. Qui-Gon suffers a fatal wound during the fierce battle, urging Obi-Wan to train Anakin as his last wish.

Theed Palace, Naboo
14

The Rise of Palpatine

With Gunray captured, Palpatine ascends to the position of Chancellor. This power shift marks the beginning of dark times for the Republic, as his true intentions remain hidden from the Jedi and the Senate.

Coruscant
15

Qui-Gon's Funeral

In a poignant moment of loss, the Jedi gather for Qui-Gon's funeral in Theed. The event symbolizes the profound impact of his legacy, as Obi-Wan vows to honor Qui-Gon's wishes and train Anakin in the ways of the Force.

Theed, Naboo
16

Celebration of Victory

The next day, Naboo erupts in celebration of their victory over the Trade Federation. Amidala presents a peacekeeping trophy to Boss Nass, solidifying the new alliance between the Naboo and the Gungans, marking a hopeful future.

Naboo

Last Updated: November 16, 2024 at 18:58