I also enjoyed playing Episode One Podracer and Jedi Power Battles on the Sega Dreamcast. Neither were "AAA" material but both were fun in their own way.
The film has a decent cast. Ian McDiarmid is the star of the show for me. It's almost like he's directing himself. Hugh Quarshie also gives a good performance. As does the actor behind Sio Bibble. Its always nice to see Brian Blessed and Terrance Stamp get work. Although I'll admit their talents are mostly wasted in the film. (But still its Prince Vultan and General Zod in Star Wars!)
Being a fanboy I've encountered both Ray Park and Ahmed Best on several occasions. They're both great guys, especially Ahmed Best. It almost makes me sad that people hate Jar Jar so much. He's a funny, charming guy who deserves better material.
I really get a kick out of Ric Ollie's comic overacting. "Sheild Generators Been Hit!" "Power's Back!" Ralph Brown really drives those lines home.
The Episode One action figures are some of the most well made figures in the modern Star Wars toy line. I even liked the Commtech Chips. (take that haters!)
Say what you will about his acting ability, Jake Lloyd has a great screen name. I just had to throw that out there.