Star Wars: Episode I The Phantom Menace is a 1999 science fantasy film written and directed by George Lucas. It was the fourth film to be released in the Star Wars saga, but it is the first film by chronology of events. Among fans, it is commonly referred to simply as TPM.

Stranded on the desert planet Tatooine after rescuing young Queen Amidala from the impending invasion of Naboo by the Trade Federation, Jedi apprentice Obi-Wan Kenobi and his Master, Qui-Gon Jinn, discover nine-year-old Anakin Skywalker, a young slave unusually strong in the Force. Anakin wins his freedom in a podrace and leaves home to be trained as a Jedi. The heroes return to Naboo where Anakin and the Queen face massive invasion forces while the two Jedi contend with a deadly foe named Darth Maul. Only then do they realize the invasion is merely the first step in a sinister scheme by the re-emergent forces of darkness, known as the Sith.

Its release on May 19, 1999 came almost 16 years after the previous film released in the series, Star Wars: Episode VI Return of the Jedi. The film's release was accompanied by extensive media coverage and high anticipation. Though given mixed reviews by critics, it was extremely financially successful, grossing US$ 924.3 million worldwide on a budget of US$115 million. The Phantom Menace was the highest grossing film of 1999, and the fourth highest grossing film of all-time after its release. It is the highest grossing Star Wars film ever, without adjustment for inflation. (Wikipedia)