Star Wars: The Phantom Menace has claimed an impressive Disney+ viewership record just in time for its 25th anniversary.
The first installment in the Star Wars prequel trilogy received a polarizing reception during its initial release in the summer of 1999. However, since then, there has been a growing appreciation for the film as there are fans who have defended it from the criticisms.
This year, the film is celebrating its 25th anniversary through special re-release screenings in theaters that were accompanied by a sneak peek of the upcoming series The Acolyte.
Also Read: The Mandalorian and Grogu Casts Sigourney Weaver in Mystery Role
The Phantom Menace is Now the Most Viewed Star Wars Movie on Disney+
A recent report has confirmed that Star Wars: The Phantom Menace is now the most Star Wars movie on Disney+ worldwide.
This could be seen as a surprising record considering the film's divisive reception, but this also shows that the fans' support continued to ignite throughout the years.
In its recent re-release, the film also ended up grossing $8.1 million in its one-time weekend release which is an impressive feat as well considering that people have an option to watch it from the comfort of their home anytime.
In a recent interview, Jar Jar Binks actor Ahmed Best reflected on the recent re-release and explained why its return to theaters was important.
"I think something needs to bring people back to these theaters, and for that big screen experience. And Phantom Menace was made for a big screen experience. George [Lucas] always looked at movies in a 'real estate.' So things are put on the screen for a reason," he said.
"When he built Phantom Menace, he built it for the dimensions that this screen was supposedly going to take up. It's about the experience, and he's very specific about that.
Best continued, He's not only just a wonderful cinephile, but as somebody who is able to craft screen art, he's incredibly detailed and incredibly specific, and he means everything he puts on a screen, every frame has a meaning. And the size of the screen matters just as much as what's on the screen."
With the film's Disney+ record and impressive box office in its re-release as well a, it certainly proves that it still resonates with the fans today and its legacy will also live on as the movie that created a new generation of Star Wars fans.
Read Next: Disney Reveals New Rey Skywalker Dialogue Post-Sequel Trilogy
What do you think of the movie's surprising Disney+ record? Let us know in the comments!
Make sure you follow our Star Wars Facebook Page for the latest Star Wars news and trends!
Explore new topics and discover content that's right for you!
Star Wars