Wars fan Shawn Meyers used to describe Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace.

The midnight showing of Phantom Menace brought applause -- even as the movie began at one past midnight on Wednesday.

As early as 9.30 p.m. last Tuesday, excited fans began to line up outside of Liberty Theatre to view Phantom Menace.

Throughout the movie there were periods of dead silence as the long awaited Phantom Menace finally rolled across the screen.

Based on reactions in a random poll taken more than two hours later, there was no dark side.

"It was excellent,'' said Ryan Jones after viewing the 10.30 a.m. showing of Star Wars on Wednesday. "It lived up to all my expectations and more. It blew them all away. George Lucas did an honourable job of tapping into the same line as he did with the first one.'' Steve Walawender said he "really enjoyed it''.

"Star Wars was the first movie I saw when I was five years old back in 1977,'' he recalled.

For Vernon Pemperton, "it was a great movie''.

"Lucas had to make it in this time because if he had done it five years ago, without the technology we have now, it wouldn't be as fascinating.

"There was a lot of hype about it. But it was basically good overall. There was nothing overwhelming. You basically had your good guys and bad guys. Wait until the next one.'' Christian Frisby was thrilled. He found the movie "very good''.

"It's different. You got a little more perspective,'' he said.

CedarBridge student Wayne Smith, who saw the movie along with other students, said: "I like Star Wars.'' His favourite characters in the film were the clumsy Jar Jar Binks and evil Darth Maul.

Deborah Taylor and friend Jane Cowgill called the movie "excellent'', while Nigel Graham said he was impressed with the special effects.

Summing up simply, he added: "It's hot.'' Photos by Arthur Bean Anxious fans: UK visitors Jane Cowgill and Deborah Taylor are excited about Phantom Menace and cannot wait to see the next one.

Avid Fan: Ryan Jones after the 10.30 a.m. showing of Phantom Menace.

More thumbs up: Pictured, from left, Steve Walawender, with unidentified friend, Vernon Pemberton, and Christian Frisby show their approval.

New Fan: Wayne Smith enjoyed the movie with other students from CedarBridge Academy.