Janet Orozco’s Reviews > Star Wars, Episode 1: The Phantom Menace > Status Update

So far, I have learned that the Trade Federation claims the conflict is over tax disputes, but it is suspicious because Naboo is an odd target. The Federation tries to trap and kill the Jedi, and it becomes clear they are secretly being controlled by Darth Sidious. The “blockade” quickly turns into a full invasion of Naboo. Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan secretly get a ride on one of the transports and hide in the swamp. Qui-Gon meets Jar Jar Binks while the creatures around them run away in fear from the STAPs and transport ships. Qui-Gon saves Jar Jar’s life by forcing him underwater so a transport can pass over them, and Jar Jar becomes clingy and insists on staying with him. Obi-Wan is spotted by a STAP, but Qui-Gon helps him escape. Obi-Wan’s lightsaber gets damaged because he accidentally left it on in the swamp, and Qui-Gon tells him it is a lesson to learn from. Jar Jar mentions his underwater city, and Qui-Gon wants to go there to escape the invasion. Jar Jar is hesitant because he was banished, and Boss Nass does not care about Naboo’s problems at first. Qui-Gon uses a Jedi mind trick to get transportation, and he also helps Jar Jar avoid being punished further.