While opinions differ among Star Wars enthusiasts regarding the optimal starting point for newcomers to the legendary series, a staunch advocate challenges the common practice of initiating with the divisive prequel, The Phantom Menace.

The release of the Star Wars prequel trilogy in the early 2000s sparked debates on the preferred viewing order, a discussion reignited by Disney's sequels and streaming ventures drawing in fresh audiences. Central to this debate is The Phantom Menace, often deemed the most ambitious entry in the prequel series.

Despite some fans defending the prequels-first approach on Reddit's r/StarWars forum, dissent remains, with one critic voicing reservations against introducing novices to The Phantom Menace as their inaugural experience. While user PalestPistachi0 clarifies a neutral stance on prequels, they argue that commencing with the chronological order may not offer newcomers the most fitting introduction to the franchise. They highlight instances where first-time viewers find more amusement in jests about the movie rather than the film itself, suggesting that beginning with A New Hope presents a more engaging start.

While acknowledging the enriching contributions of the franchise's animated shows to the prequel era's lore, PalestPistachi0 contends that these works necessitate proper context, a context best provided by the original trilogy. The critic also opposes the chronological sequence as it diminishes the impact of the reveal in the release order that commences with A New Hope, a film eagerly anticipated by executives a year before its debut. They assert that the prequels' core theme of Anakin's descent to the dark side is no surprise, diminishing the impact of Vader's paternity revelation, a pivotal moment designed for an audience familiar with Darth Vader.

While arguments exist for both viewing orders, the emphasis on preserving the mystique surrounding Darth Vader's identity and reveal carries significant weight. Vader remains a beloved figure in the franchise, attracting many fans and serving as a key draw for the prequels. While the thrill of the reveal is worth safeguarding, the widespread popularity of the franchise means Vader's identity is nearly ubiquitous knowledge. The intricate plot of The Phantom Menace contains challenging elements, benefiting from existing franchise admiration to navigate its complexities. The choice of introduction method continues to captivate new audiences for generations to come.

The iconic Star Wars saga is accessible for streaming on Disney Plus.

Source: PalestPistachi0/Reddit