In terms of filmmaking, I think we can all agree that the prequels, for the most part, don't stand up to the standard of the original trilogy even a little bit. The prequel trilogy begins here with a lacklustre introduction at best. With clunky, cringeworthy dialogue, bland performances and many strange casting choices, Episode I has a special place in my heart only for nostalgia. But on a technical level, this one simply didn't cut it. Average at best, but I feel like I'm being generous in saying that, if this didn't have the Star Wars logo on the cover, I would probably be saying much worse, but the love and nostalgia I feel for this franchise holds me back from doing so. All in all, I have never felt that the prequels 'ruined' the franchise in any way. For the most part I actually think the story on its own (acting and execution aside) is very good and one that deserves a lot more credit.
