Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menaceis a 1999 American epic space opera film written and directed byGeorge Lucas. It is the fourth film in theStar Warsfilm series, the first film of the prequel trilogy and the first in chronological order. Set 32 years before the original trilogy, (13 years before the formation of the Galactic Empire), during the era of the Galactic Republic, the plot follows Jedi MasterQui-Gon Jinnand his apprenticeObi-Wan Kenobias they try to protect QueenPadme Amidalaof Naboo in hopes of securing a peaceful end to an interplanetary trade dispute. Joined byAnakin Skywalker—a youngslavewith unusually strong natural powers of the Force—they simultaneously contend with the mysterious return of theSith. The film was produced by Lucasfilm and distributed by20th Century Fox.Attack of the Clones(2002) andRevenge of the Sith(2005) followed The Phantom Menace, rounding out the Star Wars prequel trilogy.