SilverKey said:

I don't mind that TPM starts as "small" as it does. It works really well since the blockade of Naboo seems a small and insignificant event, even Qui-Gon says as much, but turns out to be a major catalyst for the events that will change the entire SW Galaxy. I think this quiet, unassuming opening reflects perfectly how Sidious has conducted all these events. The OT didn't have any big wow openings either, other than ANH, in my opinion. For the PT, ROTS is the one with the big opening.

Well said - I agree completely.

And sitting in the theater watching TPM for the first time, I really did enjoy my first look at the jedi in their prime, cutting down helpless droids. It didn't start off the movie, exactly, but it wasn't too long before we got our first bit of action. I actually kind of like how TPM starts off (other than the Nemoidian's accents, of course).