“Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace” Makes a Grand Return to Theaters for Its 25th Anniversary

In an exciting announcement for Star Wars fans across the galaxy, “Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace” is slated to make a triumphant return to the big screen. Empire magazine has revealed that the beloved film will be re-released in theaters for a limited time, starting on May 3, 2024. This special event is set to kick off the annual May the Fourth weekend, a date that has become synonymous with Star Wars celebrations worldwide.

To mark the occasion, a special poster has been unveiled, designed by the renowned Matt Ferguson. The poster offers fans a glimpse of iconic characters Padmé (portrayed by Natalie Portman), Qui-Gon Jinn (Liam Neeson), and Obi-Wan Kenobi (Ewan McGregor), with the menacing Darth Maul (Ray Park) lurking ominously. This artistic creation not only celebrates the film’s return but also encapsulates the essence of the epic saga.

This theatrical re-release is part of a larger celebration commemorating the 25th anniversary of the Star Wars prequel trilogy. Empire’s upcoming issue, hitting newsstands on February 15, promises a deep dive into the trilogy, starting with “The Phantom Menace.” Fans can look forward to all-new interviews with cast members including Hayden Christensen, Liam Neeson, Natalie Portman, Ewan McGregor, and others. Additionally, the magazine will explore memorable sequences from the trilogy, offering insights from crew members like producer Rick McCallum and stunt coordinator Nick Gillard.

First hitting theaters on May 19, 1999, “The Phantom Menace” introduced audiences to the early days of the Star Wars saga, including the story of a young Anakin Skywalker, the future Darth Vader. Directed by George Lucas, the film set the stage for the events leading up to the original trilogy, exploring themes of destiny, the Force, and the eternal battle between the light and dark sides.

As we approach the 25th anniversary of this cinematic landmark, the re-release offers both longtime fans and new generations the opportunity to experience the magic of Star Wars on the big screen once again.