Starwoids : 3 of 5

This documentary tells the story of Star Wars fans who waited in line 42 days to see Episode I: The Phantom Menace, both at the Chinese Theater and another smaller theater in Los Angeles. I read tons of bad reviews that said this movie was boring, but I decided to rent it anyway, since in 1999 I was obsessed with watching the live webcam of the Chinese Theater line. To me, it wasn't boring at all - I really enjoyed it! The filmmakers did a nice job of cutting between both lines, plus they put in lots of related stories about toy collectors, a priest who discusses the Force, and even someone who painted their car to look like an X-wing! This is definitely a low budget production, shot with digital video and using the same kinds of titles and transitions that anyone can do with iMovie, but I think that just added to the charm. I really liked seeing all the geeks having fun and forming a family in line - I would definitely take part in something like this if I could (the main "character" Daniel actually took a test to graduate from high school early so he could spend the month in line!). I expected to see some Jar Jar bashing, but there was none to be found. If you're a fan and can get past the terrible title, you should see this movie and support your own kind!