It was inspired not only by my lifelong love of star wars and the crushing disappointment I felt when watching the prequels but more recently when I realized its impossible to watch in the current state “in order” w/o major spoilers for the originals and also my son (8) has only ever seen the original trilogy (theatrical versions) and is beginning to become aware of the extended universe. I needed something I could show my kids that wasn’t trash and fit in better with the tone of the originals.
It borrows heavily from The anti cheese edit and Shadow of the Sith, but I feel I improved upon what they were trying to do.
Jar-jar Binks, local buffoon is now Jarjarr Binx, Gungan Ranger, which is how he knows the secret way into the city and is able to arrange a meeting with the Gungan leader at the end. Why would the ruler of the Gungans meet with the local idiot who has already been banished from their lands. Subtitles replace Jamaican space speak. His role is greatly diminished.
Anakin is much more confident and capable, more worthy of a prodigy instead of just lucking backwards into everything.
Used the subtitles from anti cheese for trade federation as opposed to Asian stereotype talk.
No trip to the Gungan city.
Eliminated unnecessary elements such as C3PO and virgin midichlorian birth.
Eliminated Yoda being on screen to preserve Empire plot point surprise.
All edits bring the runtime from a bloated 2hrs and 16 mins to right around 94 mins. That includes disclaimers, credits and all.
I would love to share with the Star Wars community at large. Please let me know if you would like a free copy.