Movies

Every Star Wars Movies Ranked from Worst to Best

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The Star Wars Franchise has become one of the most widely loved in the world, and in the past decade, we have been blessed with four new films. With the galaxy far far away ever expanding, let’s take a step back and rank each film that’s been released thus far.  

  1. Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace (1999)

Many call this the worst film of the franchise for a number of reasons. You could peg it on the terribly annoying Jar Jar Binks character, the silly looking CGI effects, or the downright embarrassing dialogue, The Phantom Menace  certainly takes a back seat in the Star Wars franchise.

  1. Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones (2002)

Attack of the Clones introduced us to some fascinating developments into the early beginnings of the Empire, and showed us the origins of the Star Troopers when they began as clones. It also features some incredible battle scenes, but in the end, it is broken up by a ridiculous love story between Anakin and Padme, making it number 9 on our list .

  1. Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith (2005)

Easily the best of the prequel trilogy, Revenge of the Sith sets up the original trilogy and features some highly memorable moments. We see Anakin’s descent into the dark side, the true identity of Darth Sidious, and a downright awesome lightsaber duel between Obi-Wan and his former apprentice.

  1. Star Wars: Episode VIII – The Last Jedi (2017)

The most controversial of all Star Wars films, The Last Jedi took everything that The Force Awakens introduced, and pretty much decided to throw it in the trash. Yes, we get to see more of Luke, and yes, we get to see some of his marvelous force abilities, but the film suffers from some major plot holes, and kind of loses the momentum that it was given with Episode VII.

  1. Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens (2015)

When the first Star Wars film in over 12 years was announced, it generated an insane amount of anticipation, and concern over whether it would be a proper kickoff to a brand new trilogy. What we got was a film that was a perfect balance between new material and good old nostalgia, with veteran cast members reprising their roles of over 30 years ago.

  1. Solo: A Star Wars Story (2018)

The newest addition to the franchise, this is the first of many films from Disney and Lucasarts that will focus on singular characters. While it suffered from numerous setbacks while filming, director Ron Howard pulled together a fantastic addition to Star Wars universe. Alden Ehrenreich perfectly picks up the character of Han Solo, and was even praised by Harrison Ford for his performance. Solo gives us a glimpse into new areas of the galaxy, and the special effects and costume design are downright gorgeous. Plus, the enigmatic Lando Calrissian, played by Donald Glover, and his outspoken L3-37 droid bring humor and lighthearted fun to the film.

  1. Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope (1977)

While ranking this film here is sure to bring some controversy to old school Star Wars fans, it doesn’t mean it’s a bad film. A New Hope is the film that started it all, and captivated millions of people around the world. Filled with exquisite cinematography, engrossing characters, and a story that ignited the one of the most inspiring stories portraying the fight against evil.

  1. Star Wars: Episode VI – Return of the Jedi (1983)

The film in the original trilogy that truly showcased the power of the jedi, it features some of the coolest set pieces, characters, and classic lightsaber duels. The plight of the jedi is truly exemplified as Luke grows into his role of being one of the few remaining jedi that can use the force for the right reason. Plus, we see good finally triumph over evil, as we find out that there is still a bit of the light side in Darth Vader, redeeming himself to save his long-lost son.

  1. Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back (1980)

While Empire is widely regarded as the most superior Star Wars film when first released, but it was the franchises first foray into a objectively darker place. We are given the true identity of Darth Vader in relation to Luke, in one of the most iconic scenes in film history. We also see that the rebels are essentially pushed to the brink, without much hope to bounce back from the ominous and brutal attack of the Empire. However, there is one movie, in my opinion, that is superior.    

  1. Rogue One: A Star Wars Story (2016) 

Okay okay, I get it. This is a new Star Wars film, but hear me out: Rogue One stands on its own simply due to the fact that it ditches the defining factor that all Star Wars movies have – a relatively happy ending. Rogue One ditches the formulaic “good guys win in the end and everyone is happy” shtick that is so common with Star Wars. It expertly mixes all the good things about Star Wars, and gives it a more gritty, realistic energy that is unparalleled in the rest of the 10 Star Wars films.

Avid writer and reader with a curious mind. I'm always looking to get the most out of life! Follow me on Twitter @whatsaschoon

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