Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace

by KE Monahan Huntley

The real menace in the latest Star Wars saga is the non-existent Dramatica grand argument story. There is an objective story, although I'm not quite sure if the problems stem from Queen Amidala and her planet Naboo's intolerable situation (universe), or the action packed endeavor (physics) to restore "peace and prosperity." Unfortunately, I fell asleep during the battle scenes and spaceship chases (heresy!) exhausted from the effort of determining: Who is the main character?

Anakin Skywalker, Obi-Wan Kenobi, Qui-Gon Jinn? All contenders for main or influence character--no clear winner. My instinct (which Qui-Gon encourages us to use) is that Obi Wan and Anakin are hand-off main characters with Qui-Gon acting as the inlfuence character. A relationship between the two sets of characters is in place, however neither is developed enough to present a well-defined relationship story.

Before his demise, Qui-Gon charges Obi-Wan with the responsibility of training Anakin for Jedi Knighthood--perhaps that will be the relationship story for George Lucas' next episode. Then again, it could be the love story between Anakin (Darth Vader) and Amidala.

I am certain that Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace is a success story (outcome). John Williams' musical score tells us so.

"Odd" (and annoying) Jar Jar Binks asserts "Maxi big, the Force," but without an argument explored from other than the objective point of view, the story is just a mirage. A phantom, if you will.

About the Author

KE Monahan Huntley is an editor and publisher based in Southern California. As one of the original contributors to Dramatica, she helped edit and analyze many of the examples. In addition, her numerous articles provided an insightful "conversational" approach to the theory. Today she can be found at Write Between the Lines or follow her on Twitter @kemhuntley.

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