From the iconic intro to the quotable lines, this beloved franchise originating in 1977 with Episode 4 followed by several spin-off releases, has always been special to its audience. It focuses on a galaxy long ago and far away with classic good versus evil battles and a cast of wild characters in spaceships. Consequently, the audience feels responsible for letting the world know when a movie isn’t up to their standards, as each fan seems set in their opinions of which “Star Wars” movies are best. The ranking of these movies has been a topic of controversy for decades, but despite the various arguments on the topic, I am here to settle all debates and pick the top five out of 11 movies (including the three trilogies and spin-off films) that instantly transport you into the galaxy from their first scene.
#5: “Revenge of the Sith – Episode III” (2005)
Initially, many fans were critical of the prequel trilogy, but this dramatic ending ties it all together and perfectly sets up the backstory of the main antagonist Darth Vader (voiced by James Earl Jones). The two movies that came before spent hours portraying the character of Anakin Skywalker (Hayden Christensen) as charming and witty, if perhaps a little reckless. This makes his betrayal even more tragic, even though most viewers knew how it would end from episode I. Additionally, the film sprinkles in plenty of the little bits of humor we have come to expect from the characters. The prequels are also known for having the best lightsaber fighting in any of the movies, with many of the duels in this finale, such as the one between Anakin and Obi-Wan (Ewan McGregor), becoming iconic scenes. This movie delivers an emotional ending to Anakin and Padme’s (Natalie Portman) story and slingshots you into the original trilogy.
#4: “Rogue One: A Star Wars Story” (2016)
This engaging prequel to “A New Hope” is criminally underrated. It succeeds in making a complex plot out of a loophole we didn’t even know existed. It takes place in the years leading up to episode IV and details the events that led to the destruction of the Death Star. The majority of fans didn’t question how the plans for the Death Star were acquired or what greater sacrifices came to those involved in the rebel alliance until seeing this movie. Although the film introduces entirely new characters like Jyn Erso (Felicity Jones) and Cassian Andor (Diego Luna), the character development and depth are not diminished. This includes a love story that doesn’t feel forced or overshadow the main plot, but rather makes the final scenes more heart-wrenching. The tale feels well-rounded and paced and has an emotional ending to wrap it all up. Despite being occasionally overlooked, “Rogue One” changes the way viewers perceive the opening trilogy and all the films to follow.
#3: “Return of the Jedi – Episode VI” (1983)
A common mistake in lots of popular franchises is an ending that doesn’t measure up to the rest of the series. However, this epic conclusion to the first “Star Wars” trilogy sticks the landing almost flawlessly. The love triangle between the three main characters, Luke (Mark Hamill), Leia (Carrie Fisher), and Han Solo (Harrison Ford), is resolved in a last-minute plot twist. This dramatic choice could have gone seriously wrong, but instead paves the way for two of the sweetest dynamic duos in the whole franchise, one being romantic, and the other familial. This ties in seamlessly with the wider plot and helps our hero, Luke Skywalker, in his journey to victory and deep connection with the Force. This is the first movie where we really take Luke seriously as a powerful Jedi, rather than a scrappy kid with a hero complex from a remote planet. Not to mention the introduction of the endearing race of Ewoks that befriend the main characters and capture the hearts of many in the audience.
#2: “A New Hope – Episode IV” (1977)
The classic first movie in the “Star Wars” universe is a masterclass in world-building. It simultaneously engages the audience with plot elements of suspense and glory while adding in little details to the background of scenes to make them feel immersive. The bar scene, where Luke and Obi-Wan Kenobi (Alec Guinness) look for transport on a spaceship, is an excellent example of how this movie uses setting and characterization to instantly paint a picture for the viewer. For its time, the CGI and special effects used to create this world were extraordinary. In this fantastical universe filled with aliens and spaceships, the characters are still relatable and humanizing. The comedic and lovable main trio perfectly complement each other and contrast with the ominous presence of Darth Vader. This movie was the beginning of the story and set the stage for all the wonders to come, so it was only fair that it gets the recognition it deserves.
#1: “The Empire Strikes Back – Episode V” (1980)
The second “Star Wars” movie to hit theatres, “The Empire Strikes Back,” is often ranked as a fan-favorite for its exceptional plot and character development. The revelatory scene shared by Luke and Darth Vader quickly became one of the most quoted and iconic scenes in film. It includes a massive, shocking plot twist for those who watched the films in order of release. There were several places like this twist where one misstep on the writer’s part could have gone seriously wrong, but the risks paid off. After being introduced to Luke and his counterparts, viewers get to see how they grow into mature and heroic leaders of the rebel organization. This movie also integrates a subplot of romance in the main trio, specifically between Princess Leia (Carrie Fisher) and Han Solo (Harrison Ford). The delightful pair continues to capture hearts to this day. Not to mention, this is the first time we meet Yoda (voiced by Frank Oz), an intriguing character who remains one of the faces of the franchise. Overall, this second installment in the “Star Wars” universe is popular for a reason.
Honorable Mention:
“Attack of the Clones” (2002) and “The Force Awakens” (2015), both underrated movies that often get overshadowed by the rest of the series.
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