George Lucas’ Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace returned to theaters this past weekend for its 25th anniversary, and the movie ended up having a surprisingly good run at the box office.

The Phantom Menace opened at #2 this weekend with an impressive $8.1 million at the North American box office. Ryan Gosling and Emily Blunt’s The Fall Guy came in at #1 with its $28.5 million opening, which was a big disappointment.

I ended up attending one of The Phantom Menace screenings because I haven’t seen it on the big screen since it was first released in theaters and I walked out of it very disappointed.

I had more fun watching this on the big screen this time around. While the movie is far from perfect, I’ve come to appreciate it more over the years, and watching the Duel of the Fates lightsaber on the big screen again was worth the price of admission!

Also, it was fun to be with an audience filled with fans cheering and laughing and just having a good time while watching the movie. It was a good way to celebrate May The 4th!

The Phantom Menace was originally released in 1999 and over the years it has made over $1 billion worldwide thanks to all of the previous re-releases, including a 3D conversion.

The Phantom Menace sets the stage for the saga with a tale of political intrigue and the rise of Darth Vader. The Galactic Republic is in turmoil as Trade Federation forces blockade the peaceful planet of Naboo.

Jedi Knights Qui-Gon Jinn and Obi-Wan Kenobi are dispatched to negotiate, only to find themselves embroiled in a sinister plot orchestrated by the Sith Lord, Darth Sidious.

Along the way, they encounter young Anakin Skywalker, a slave with a strong connection to the Force. As they navigate treacherous alliances and face off against the formidable Sith apprentice Darth Maul, the fate of the galaxy hangs in the balance, laying the groundwork for the epic conflict yet to come.

Did you go see The Phantom Menace in theaters this weekend? How was your experience?