Star Wars Movies Ranked: Epic Saga Evaluation

For many years, Star Wars has been the go-to sci-fi franchise. This universe that started in movies has expanded beyond this medium. However, the movies are still the main attraction so it’s important to have the Star Wars movies ranked

With each new release, we’ve seen filmmaking technology and storytelling methods evolve, while the Star Wars universe’s lore continues to expand.

In this journey, we’ll venture through all the Star Wars movies to determine which ones are the best. So today we present to you our list of all the Star Wars movies ranked from worst to best. 

All 12 Star Wars Movies Ranked

In this list of Star Wars movies ranked, we will separate the worst from the best. So we will also talk about the spin-off and animated movies.  Now, let’s jump right into it. 

12. Star Wars: The Clone Wars

Starting our list of Star Wars movies ranked, we have The Clone Wars. The movie centers on Jedi Knights Anakin Skywalker and Obi-Wan Kenobi as they lead the Republic’s forces against the Separatists.

The film was meant to act as the pilot of the hit The Clone Wars series. However, the movie was quite strange and didn’t add anything to the characters or the larger storyline.

11. Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker

Next up we have, The Rise of Skywalker. It follows Rey and her allies as they confront Emperor Palpatine. They intend to end the Sith threat once and for all while facing their inner struggles.

The movie attempts to wrap up the Skywalker saga.  It was quite ambitious but struggles to satisfy all fans due to its rushed pacing and inconsistent narrative choices.

10. Star Wars: The Phantom Menace

Now, let’s talk about the prequels a bit. Star Wars: The Phantom Menace depicts the emergence of Anakin Skywalker, a young boy with extraordinary Force abilities. Jedi Master Qui-Gon Jinn recognizes his potential and aims to protect him from dark forces.

Although it brings interesting new aspects to the Star Wars world, the film is criticized for its uneven pacing and lack of emotional depth. It had big shoes to fill and it failed miserably.

9. Solo: A Star Wars Story

The next entry on our list of Star Wars movies ranked Solo: A Star Wars Story. It follows a young Han Solo as he embarks on daring adventures in the criminal underworld.

The film explores his early encounters with Chewbacca, the Millennium Falcon, and the events that shape him into the charismatic rogue we know. Even though it isn’t the finest Star Wars story, it does provide enjoyable fan moments and strong performances.

8. Star Wars: Attack of the Clones

Attack of the Clones follows Jedi Knight Obi-Wan Kenobi and his Padawan, Anakin Skywalker, as they uncover a conspiracy that threatens the Galactic Republic. 

While visually striking and expanding the Star Wars universe, the film struggles with pacing and dialogue. Yet, it is a solid entry in the prequel franchise considering how it started. So this is the optimal spot for it in terms of Star Wars movies ranked.

7. Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith

This film depicts the tragic downfall of Anakin Skywalker as he succumbs to the dark side, becoming Darth Vader. It also showcases the Jedi Order’s downfall and the rise of the Galactic Empire.

Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith stands as a highlight of the prequel trilogy, though some stilted dialogue and pacing issues persist.

6. Star Wars: The Last Jedi

The next entry on our list of Star Wars movies ranked is The Last Jed. It follows Rey as she seeks guidance from Luke Skywalker while the Resistance battles the First Order. 

The film explores themes of legacy, failure, and the tension between the light and dark sides of the Force. It subverts expectations with bold storytelling choices, dividing fans over its treatment of established characters and plot direction.

5. Star Wars: The Force Awakens

As we begin the top 5 Star Wars movies ranked we have “The Force Awakens.” It introduces a new generation of characters, including Rey, Finn, and Kylo Ren. The film follows their journey to locate Luke Skywalker. 

Bridging old and new with a mix of nostalgia and fresh energy, it revitalizes the franchise with engaging characters and action. It reignited the essence of Star Wars for a new age. Although parallels to “A New Hope” have led to criticism of its derivative plot.

4. Star Wars: Return of the Jedi

Finally, we are getting to the original trilogy. Return of the Jedi sees the Rebel Alliance launching a final assault on the Empire, with Luke Skywalker confronting Darth Vader and Emperor Palpatine. 

The film resolves key character arcs and brings closure to the original trilogy. Concluding the trilogy with a satisfying blend of action and emotion, it delivers iconic moments and a climactic showdown.

3. Rogue One: A Star Wars Story

Rogue One: A Star Wars Story is different from all other movies. It follows a group of rebels who undertake a perilous mission: to steal the plans for the Death Star. Their actions set the stage for the events of “A New Hope.”

It stands out as a gritty and thrilling addition to the Star Wars saga. It showcases a different perspective on the Rebellion and offers a narrative that connects to the original trilogy. This darker take on the Star Wars universe was quite exciting to watch.

2. Star Wars: A New Hope

Star Wars: A New Hope is the one that started it all. It follows Luke Skywalker as he joins the Rebel Alliance to battle the oppressive Galactic Empire and rescue Princess Leia, aided by Han Solo and Obi-Wan Kenobi.

It revolutionized filmmaking and storytelling, launching an iconic franchise that continues to captivate audiences worldwide. So it deserves this spot in this list of Star Wars movies ranked. 

1. Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back

In terms of  Star Wars movies ranked, “The Empire Strikes Back” will always be number 1. It continues the journey of the Rebel Alliance against the Empire. Luke Skywalker trains with Yoda while Han Solo and Princess Leia evade pursuit.

It is considered by many as the pinnacle of the saga. It deepens characters and lore, delivering a darker and more complex narrative. It’s not only the best Star Wars movie but also one of the finest sci-fi movies of all time.

Conclusion

So this concludes our ranking of Star Wars movies ranked. We have ranked all the Star Wars movies based on public opinion with a mix of my personal opinion. Nevertheless, the Star Wars franchise continues to grow and it’s exciting to see how far it goes. 

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