Ron Howard Saw Star Wars: The Phantom Menace Before Anyone Else and Was Impressed

Ron Howard had privileged access to one of the most anticipated films in the history of modern cinema. Before "Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace" hit theaters in 1999, the director was invited by George Lucas to watch an unfinished version of the production. Howard saw the film when only about 60% of the special effects were complete. Even so, he was impressed by the visual impact of the work and described the experience as an honor. The connection between Ron Howard and George Lucas went back a long way. Howard had worked with Lucas on "American Graffiti" and maintained a relationship of friendship and professional respect with him. Therefore, it was not strange that Lucas decided to show the return of the Star Wars saga to his former collaborator in advance. "The Phantom Menace" was eagerly awaited because it marked the franchise's return to theaters after many years. The film presented Anakin Skywalker's childhood, the rise of new political threats and characters that would expand the mythology of the galaxy created by Lucas. Despite dividing opinions after its release, the film became a commercial phenomenon. For Howard, the experience of watching a work still under construction before the public showed the size of Lucas's technical and narrative ambition at that time.