After a quarter of a century, the enduring power of “Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace” remains evident. Over the weekend, the film brought in an estimated $14.5 million at the global box office, showcasing remarkable resilience for a re-release of a movie that’s been around for 25 years.
This special release coincided with the film’s 25th anniversary and was strategically timed for May the Fourth, affectionately known as Star Wars Day. In the United States, the film earned $8.1 million, securing the second spot at the box office. It was screened in 2,700 theaters domestically, including 150 Premium Large Format screens and 130 specialty motion D-Box/4D auditoriums.
To put this into perspective, last year’s re-release of “Star Wars: Return of the Jedi” for its 40th anniversary garnered $5.1 million in its opening weekend in April.
Since its original debut in 1999, “The Phantom Menace” has been a cultural phenomenon. Directed by George Lucas and featuring stars like Liam Neeson, Ewan McGregor, and Natalie Portman, the film shattered box office records upon its release and has continued to captivate audiences, transcending generations.
The movie delves into the backstory of Anakin Skywalker, who eventually transforms into the infamous Darth Vader. Known for its groundbreaking cinematic techniques, imaginative storytelling, and iconic moments, “The Phantom Menace” embodies the essence of the Star Wars franchise.
Accompanying the re-release was an exclusive preview of the upcoming Disney+ series “Star Wars: The Acolyte,” set to premiere on June 4. Moreover, the film enjoyed screenings in several international markets, including the UK, Germany, France, Spain, Australia, Japan, Mexico, and Brazil.
For fans eager to revisit the entire Star Wars saga, including “The Phantom Menace,” Disney+ offers streaming access to the beloved franchise.
