Star WarsDay is this Saturday (May 4). This year’s major focus is rightfully onStar Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace’s 25th Anniversary. Disney has been gearing up for the special galactic occasion with a handful of their own exclusive merchandise. However, companies likeFunkohave also revved up their Podracing engines with their takes onEpisode I. Now, Heroes and Villains has entered the battle with their new apparel collection based onStar Wars’ first prequel film.
The collection featuresfour t-shirts highlighting Watto,C-3PO,Jar Jar Binks, and the film’s main villain,Darth Maul. They all bear a “Natural” sketch pad-like look to them that makes them stand out in a galaxy far, far away. The stunning designs could almost pass as early Episode I concept art. Each shirt will be $32. This collection is atimed exclusive running from Thursday, May 2 to Sunday, May 5.A different design will be available each day for 24 hours only. Watto will be on May 2, Jar Jar Binks will be on May 3, C-3PO will be on May 4, and Darth Maul will be dropping intoStar Warsfans’ laps on May 5.
‘The Phantom Menace’ & the Start of the Prequel Era
WhenEpisode Iwas released in May 1999,Star Wars-mania was back in full swing with an endless sea of merchandise, action figures, re-releases of the original trilogy. In terms of marketing, it was not only a bright sign forStar Wars’ profitable future, it helped usher in the 21st century blockbuster as we know it today. Fans are so used to awaiting yearlyStar Warsreleases. Whether it be toys, video games, the Disney+ series or the films themselves. That wouldn’t have been possible without the financial success ofEpisode I. The quality of the film has always been up for debut. If you grew up with the prequel era, you most likely have tons of nostalgia forEpisode I. On the other hand, if you’re old enough to have seen any of the original trilogy Episodes in theaters, your opinion might lean more negative.Episode Iset the tone for the divisive prequel trilogy. However, no matter where your opinion lies on this film, it has only gotten better with age. This has to do with athrilling finale that includes Darth Maul’s iconic duel, John William’s amazing musical score, and the inventive Podracing sequence.The Phantom Menacewould be followed byAttack of the Clonesin 2002 before this film era ofStar Warswrapped up in 2005 withRevenge of the Sith.
When Does ‘The Phantom Menace’ Return to Theaters?
Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menaceis speedingback into theaterson July 21, 2025. While fans wait for Heroes & Villains' daily Episode I collection event, you can turn on notifications on theirwebsiteto be prepared the moment each shirt drops. Once the shirts sell out, they’re gone for good.
Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace
Two Jedi escape a hostile blockade to find allies and come across a young boy who may bring balance to the Force, but the long dormant Sith resurface to claim their original glory.
