The Living Rockumentary

Lucas, ‘Star Wars’ Fans Gear Up For Spectacular 5-Year Anniversary of “The Phantom Menace”

-Hold on to your lightsabers, Jedis and Jediettes. It’s hard to believe but a full five years have passed since the premiere of “Star Wars: Episode 1- The Phantom Menace,” creator George Lucas’ long-awaited 1999 follow-up to his massively popular "Star Wars" movie trilogy of the late 1970s and early 1980s. To mark the 5th year anniversary of the blockbuster “Phantom,” Lucas is pulling out all the stops for the summer of 2004, masterminding a multi-media
extravaganza that is already whipping sci-fi fans into a frenzy and sweeping up even the most mildly interested Star Wars admirer in its wake.

A summer movie blockbuster season stuffed with other can’t-miss films such as “Shrek 2” and “Spider-Man 2” will have to take a backseat to the surefire surge in ticket sales anticipated for the theatrical re-release of “Phantom,” which is slated for the weekend of June 14 (Flag Day- coincidence?).

In addition to the theatrical re-release, megastar Jake Lloyd, who portrays Anakin Skywalker in “Phantom,” will be earning his star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in mid-July, not to mention a new fan website dedicated to Natalie
Portman a.k.a. “Queen Amidala” is set for unveiling in August. Lucas also has earmarked a DVD re-release of “Phantom,” complete with even more bonus features than the initial 2001 DVD, for this fall, just in time for the Christmas rush.
Speaking of the Christmas rush, retail toy store managers know from experience the outrageous demand for Star Wars memorabilia that accompanies the release of Lucas’ movies and are taking no chances. They will be stocking up with everything from “Mace Windu” candelabras to “Boss Nass” beach towels, which are expected to fly off the shelves this summer and continue with strong sales through Halloween (you’ll see more than a few Jar Jar Binks costumes at your door this year) and into the Christmas season. For fans who will be trying to get tickets for the movie, looking for sold-out toys, or just trying to celebrate Flag Day of 2003 without being overcome by Star Wars fever, all we can say is… May the force be with you.