Star Wars Episode I.I: The Phantom Edit is afan edit of the filmStar Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace, removing many elements of the original film. The purpose of the edit, according to creatorMike J. Nichols, was to make a much stronger version ofThe Phantom Menace based on the previous execution and philosophies of film storytelling and editing ofGeorge Lucas.[1]The Phantom Edit was the first unauthorized re-edit ofThe Phantom Menace to receive major publicity and acclaim and is also considered the first fan-edit of a feature film ever to be shared by an online audience.[2][3]
The Phantom Edit was originally circulated inHollywood studios in 2000 and 2001, and was followed by media attention.Salon.com,[1]NPR,[3]PBS,[2] and theBBC[4] all covered the edit to various degrees.
Rumor initially attributedThe Phantom Edit toKevin Smith, who admitted to having seen the re-edit but denied that he was the editor. The editor was revealed to beMike J. Nichols ofSanta Clarita, California, in the September 7, 2001, edition ofThe Washington Post.[5]
Lucasfilm, the production company of series creator George Lucas, condoned the edit and did not pursue legal action against its distributors.[4]
Critics and filmmakers have commented on the originalPhantom Edit, in most cases providing the approval and recognition which furthered the fan edit movement.
