by Katharine Elizabeth Monahan Huntley
The real menace in the latest Star Wars saga is the non-existent Dramatica grand argument story. There is an overall story, although I’m not quite sure if the problems stem from Queen Amidala and her planet Naboo’s intolerable situation (story domain-universe), or the action packed endeavor (story domain-activity) to restore “peace and prosperity.” Unfortunately, I fell asleep during the battle scenes and spaceship chases—exhausted from the effort of determining: Who is the main character?
Anakin Skywalker, Obi-Wan Kenobi, Qui-Gon Jinn? All contenders for main or impact 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 impact character. A relationship between the two sets of characters is in place, however, neither is developed well enough to present a defined main vs. impact character story.
Before his demise, Qui-Gon charges Obi-Wan with the responsibility of training Anakin for Jedi Knighthood—perhaps that will be the main vs. impact character 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 overall point of view, the story is just a mirage. A phantom, if you will . . .