20 Things You Somehow Missed In Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace
Did you spot Palpatine's cheeky Phantom Menace dig at the Jedi Code?
Thrusting those dedicated to all things Force-sensitive back into a corner of the galaxy they'd evidently been missing for over 15 years, George Lucas' Prequel-igniting The Phantom Menace undoubtedly sat as one of the most anticipated epics ever to be unleashed into a movie theatre back in 1999.
And while those hoping to see an obvious continuation (in terms of style and tone) of the prior beloved trilogy were left a little disappointed by the time Episode I's credits began to roll, time has ultimately brought a new level of appreciation to a feature once branded as a divisive and stuttering start to the next generation of Star Wars stories.
Along with the realisation that The Phantom Menace boasts some jaw-dropping set-pieces, a duel for the ages, a number of stellar performances, and a simply majestic score though, multiple revisits to this ambitious entry have also unearthed a number of brilliant treats, easter eggs, and details that some still haven't spotted some 23 years on!
From the galaxy's big bad taking a subtle shot at his mortal enemies, to certain mesmerising moments not actually being what they initially seemed, it's time to dive into those glorious Episode I elements you've probably never even noticed.
20. An Anything But Waterfall
Despite many being quick to take aim at George Lucas for his over-reliance on CGI and digital tinkering throughout the Prequel trilogy in general, there were actually more brilliant practical elements than you'd likely have ever expected here.
Look no further than the inspired foundation of Naboo's Theed waterfalls in Episode I, with the awesome ILM digital effects artist Dean Yurke using falling salt as the basis for what appeared to be streams of tumbling water.
Now, there were a few more additional elements pumped into the mix in order to nail the desired finished article, including a matte painting background, the incorporating of miniatures, some added CGI particles, and even some digital birds! But the record will always show that Naboo's mesmerising waterfalls all started out as little more than bags of salt pouring down some black velvet curtains draped over scaffolding.