Every Star Wars movie ranked from worst to best

“Let’s get one thing straight. I take orders from just one person: me.” As someone born in 1977, the year Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope hit cinemas, this writer is taking on a (Han) solo mission to rank the best Star Wars movies.

Let’s be real – the Star Wars movies you enjoy most likely depend on when you grew up. If you were a child in 1983, you probably thought the Ewoks were adorable and maybe even owned a Wicket action figure. But chances are, you don’t have such fond memories of Jar Jar Binks.

The more recent Star Wars trilogy began with The Force Awakens, which successfully reintroduced the series to a new audience. However, the subsequent films proved divisive and continue to be debated by fans.

Want to know where The Mandalorian and Grogu’s story fits within the larger Star Wars saga? We’ve ranked all the Star Wars films to help you see how it compares.

Just so we’re clear, we’re not discussing the Clone Wars TV series or any other specials here. Okay? Let’s wrap this up and head out.

12. Star Wars: Episode IX – The Rise of Skywalker

Release date: December 20, 2019
Director: J. J. Abrams
Cast: Daisy Ridley, Adam Driver, John Boyega, Oscar Isaac, Ian McDiarmid

Okay, so the movie basically kicks off with the shocking reveal that Palpatine is somehow alive! It feels a little weird because it almost ignores everything that happened in the last movie, but here he is, back from wherever he disappeared to decades ago. The Resistance is scrambling to stop him, and Rey finally learns about her family history. Honestly, the most interesting character arc is Kylo Ren – he’s really battling with the dark side, and he’s pretty much the only bright spot in the whole film!

What we think: Star Wars: Episode IX: The Rise of Skywalker might actually be a better standalone movie than Attack of the Clones, but it lands at the bottom because it completely lost its nerve after the backlash to Star Wars: Episode VIII: The Last Jedi. The result is an incoherent ending to the Star Wars story that has totally forgotten what happened before it.

Suddenly Rey’s story changes direction, old plot points are abandoned, and Emperor Palpatine is awkwardly shoved back into the picture like somebody remembered Star Wars needed a villain at the last minute. Had the movie properly followed on from Episode VIII, sure, it might still have annoyed some fans, but at least the sequel trilogy would have made sense.

That’s a shame because there are good performances buried underneath the chaos. Adam Driver is excellent once again as Kylo Ren, while Daisy Ridley does her best to hold everything together as the story spirals around her.

Like with most Star Wars films, there’s still something really cool about this one. The podrace? Man, that’s like the lightsaber fight on the Death Star wreckage – seriously awesome. We’ll always remember that scene. It’s just… getting to it was a bit of a slog through a messy movie, honestly.

11. Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones

Release date: May 16, 2002
Director: George Lucas
Cast: Ewan McGregor, Hayden Christensen, Natalie Portman, Christopher Lee, Temuera Morrison

What it’s about: As Obi-Wan Kenobi investigates an assassination attempt on Senator Padmé Amidala, Anakin Skywalker is assigned to protect her and begins falling to the dark side while a mysterious clone army is created in secret.

Which is a bigger disappointment: ruining a popular story with a confusing follow-up, or making a Star Wars movie that’s just not very thrilling or memorable?

This film is known for adding overly dramatic romance to the space opera genre, and the connection between Anakin Skywalker and Padmé Amidala feels awkward rather than believable. It’s also remembered for Anakin’s famously melodramatic complaints about sand.

One of the few good things about the movie is that Jar Jar Binks isn’t in it much. Jango Fett feels like he was added just to appeal to fans who were curious about Boba Fett’s history. To be honest, though, it’s difficult to recall many details from Attack of the Clones. The final battle scene has some excitement, but it doesn’t quite reach the level of iconic moments like the Death Star attack or the duel between Darth Maul, Obi-Wan, and Qui-Gon.

10. Solo: A Star Wars Story

Release date: May 25, 2018
Director: Ron Howard
Cast: Alden Ehrenreich, Donald Glover, Emilia Clarke, Woody Harrelson, Paul Bettany

This story takes place long before Han Solo became a famous smuggler. It shows his early life, how he learned to survive on the streets of the galaxy, and how he first met Chewbacca. We also see how he won the Millennium Falcon and ultimately became the Han Solo we know.

While a story about Han Solo’s early life seemed promising after the success of Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, the movie Solo didn’t quite live up to expectations. Its poor performance at the box office ultimately led to plans for other standalone Star Wars films focusing on characters like Obi-Wan Kenobi and Boba Fett being cancelled.

The movie isn’t terrible. Alden Ehrenreich smartly creates his own version of Han Solo instead of just copying Harrison Ford, and Donald Glover seems to be having a great time playing Lando Calrissian. The train robbery sequence is enjoyable, though it doesn’t quite reach the excitement of the classic asteroid field chase.

Everything else in the movie just lacks the spark you’d expect from a Han Solo adventure. The action, the humor, and even the romance all feel flat and uninspired, like Han himself when he was frozen in carbonite.

9. Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace

Release date: May 19, 1999
Director: George Lucas
Cast: Liam Neeson, Ewan McGregor, Natalie Portman, Jake Lloyd, Ray Park

Okay, so “The Phantom Menace” takes place way before the first Star Wars movies. It’s all about Jedi Masters Qui-Gon Jinn and Obi-Wan Kenobi, and how they end up protecting Queen Amidala when things start to get really messy politically. While they’re at it, they stumble upon this incredibly talented young boy named Anakin Skywalker, who’s actually a slave. But things get complicated because a sneaky Sith Lord starts showing up, and you know that can’t be good!

There’s a clear divide between fans who enjoy the prequel Star Wars films and those who try to ignore them. This difference in opinion isn’t accidental; there are understandable reasons behind it.

It’s difficult to convey the incredible excitement surrounding the release of Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace in 1999. After a 16-year wait for a new film, fans camped overnight for tickets, eagerly anticipating the iconic John Williams music. However, as the opening credits appeared, a sense of disappointment began to set in.

The Phantom Menace quickly got bogged down in unnecessary political issues, making it feel surprisingly boring. For adults who disliked the Ewoks in Return of the Jedi, Jar Jar Binks was another unwelcome addition, though children likely enjoyed the character.

Almost everyone agreed on two things: Darth Maul was incredibly awesome, and the podrace scene was amazing – so much so that it inspired an entire Nintendo 64 game.

The initial disappointment has mostly passed, just like the poor special effects. However, it’s still a pretty boring experience.

8. Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu

Release date: May 22, 2026
Director: Jon Favreau
Cast: Pedro Pascal, Sigourney Weaver, Jeremy Allen White

Following the Disney+ series, The Mandalorian is now working with the New Republic on a galaxy-wide mission: rescuing Rotta the Hutt, the son of Jabba the Hutt, and bringing him home. But when it becomes clear the Hutt twins can’t be trusted, Mando and his adorable sidekick Grogu (formerly known as Baby Yoda) decide to go their own way.

What we think: The Mandalorian and Grogu is lucky not to have the baggage that can weigh down the main Star Wars series. A spin-off from the Disney+ show, it’s an action-packed blast.

Mando himself has some John Wick-style moves with his blaster, while Grogu remains as adorable as ever whether he’s eating snacks, getting told off for pressing buttons, or using the Force to save the day.

Sometimes the story feels like it’s straight out of Star Wars, complete with characters like the Hutt twins, quirky creatures, Stormtroopers in their orange uniforms, and X-Wing fighters. But then it shifts gears, particularly when the setting moves to Shakari, a modern city drenched in rain that evokes the atmosphere of Blade Runner.

The one slightly odd casting choice is Jeremy Allen White as Rotta the Hutt. His American accent and physique don’t quite match the usual slimy, alien appearance of the Hutt family – but perhaps that was intentional.

7. Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith

Release date: May 19, 2005
Director: George Lucas
Cast: Ewan McGregor, Hayden Christensen, Natalie Portman, Ian McDiarmid, Samuel L. Jackson

As the Clone Wars come to an end, Anakin Skywalker is increasingly influenced by the dark side through the manipulations of Chancellor Palpatine. Meanwhile, Obi-Wan Kenobi pursues General Grievous, all as the Jedi Order faces growing danger and potential collapse.

What we think: “Noooo…” Darth Vader doesn’t shout “Nooooo…” He goes “Hmmm paah,” then talks in a deep, menacing tone before force choking some goon with his fingers. If we’re being generous, Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith made the Dark Lord seem more human in a tale that finally put the prequel trilogy to bed.

Most viewers, myself included, were relieved that Revenge of the Sith finally delivered a compelling story. After a lot of political maneuvering and clumsy romantic scenes, with exciting moments like the podrace and every appearance by Darth Maul, the film showed us the tragic journey of how Anakin Skywalker transformed into Darth Vader.

While the movie still had some awkward dialogue, unconvincing acting, and poor special effects, the scene of the attack on the Jedi Temple was appropriately grim. More importantly, the final lightsaber battle between Obi-Wan and Anakin on Mustafar delivered the exciting conclusion fans had been hoping for.

6. Star Wars: Episode VIII – The Last Jedi

Release date: December 15, 2017
Director: Rian Johnson
Cast: Daisy Ridley, Mark Hamill, Adam Driver, John Boyega, Carrie Fisher

The story follows Rey as she seeks out Luke Skywalker, who is living in hiding on a distant island. She wants him to join the fight against the First Order, but as she tries to convince him, Kylo Ren becomes increasingly strong and struggles with his own inner turmoil.

Whether you enjoyed Star Wars: Episode VIII – The Last Jedi often comes down to your expectations. Did moments like Luke Skywalker tossing his lightsaber feel funny or disappointing?

This writer definitely sniggered.

While Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens was undeniably fun, there was criticism that it was basically another Death Star story. The Last Jedi wasn’t that. Directed by Rian Johnson, the man behind the brilliant sci-fi movie Looper, it took risks.

While some parts of the movie didn’t quite work, particularly the scenes on the casino planet, The Last Jedi was at least ambitious. It dared to portray Luke Skywalker not as a perfect hero, but as a flawed man burdened by years of disappointment, guilt, and the immense responsibility of saving the galaxy.

Rey and Kylo Ren shared a believable connection, and Adam Driver consistently stood out as the most compelling character in the sequel trilogy. Visually, this is one of the most stunning Star Wars films to date, filled with unforgettable scenes like the thrilling hyperspace battle and Luke Skywalker’s poignant final moments.

5. Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens

Release date: December 18, 2015
Director: J. J. Abrams
Cast: Daisy Ridley, John Boyega, Oscar Isaac, Adam Driver, Harrison Ford, Carrie Fisher

Decades after the events of Return of the Jedi, The Force Awakens introduces Rey, a scavenger, Finn, a former Stormtrooper, and Poe Dameron, a Resistance pilot. They all find themselves involved in a new conflict against Kylo Ren and the growing power of the First Order.

Regardless of your opinions on the later Star Wars sequels, most people agree that The Force Awakens successfully captured the joyful spirit of the original films.

The new actors were also a big strength. Daisy Ridley quickly made audiences connect with Rey, John Boyega portrayed a Stormtrooper who genuinely cared about doing the right thing, and Oscar Isaac was incredibly charismatic as a pilot, even with limited screen time.

Despite its fun aspects, Star Wars also tackles serious themes. The series features devastating events, like planets being destroyed by powerful weapons, and The Force Awakens recognized the importance of showing this darkness. Finn’s reaction to the massacre on Jakku felt genuinely emotional, and Kylo Ren was a truly frightening villain – the most compelling Star Wars had seen in a long time. The scene where he stabbed Finn with his unique lightsaber was particularly memorable.

Honestly, seeing the escape from Jakku was incredible! The Millennium Falcon zooming through all that wreckage was a total thrill, and then Kylo Ren just stopped a blaster bolt with the Force – it was so cool and he just walked away like it was nothing! Everything happened so fast, it felt even quicker than a podrace on Tatooine!

It definitely took a lot of inspiration from the original Star Wars film. Like that movie, it featured a desert planet, a villain in a mask, a droid with vital data, and a massive, planet-destroying weapon. But after a long buildup of political conflicts and, let’s be honest, some cringeworthy scenes involving sand, a focus on simplicity might have been a good move.

4. Star Wars: Episode VI – Return of the Jedi

Release date: May 25, 1983
Director: Richard Marquand
Cast: Mark Hamill, Harrison Ford, Carrie Fisher, Ian McDiarmid, Billy Dee Williams

The story follows the Rebel Alliance’s last stand against the Empire. Luke Skywalker tries to redeem his father, Darth Vader, while Han Solo and Princess Leia work together to disable the shield surrounding a new, even more powerful Death Star.

The criticism of the Ewoks in Return of the Jedi isn’t about the movie itself – it’s a modern phenomenon fueled by the internet. When the film first came out, hardly anyone complained about the furry creatures. While a teenage fan might not have been as enthusiastic about characters like Paploo, Nippet, and Wicket as a younger child, it simply wasn’t a major point of discussion. Yes, the Ewok action figures were popular, but at just a couple of dollars each – and with cool cloaks – they were a fun purchase for most.

Return of the Jedi is packed with iconic scenes – like Jabba the Hutt, the terrifying Sarlacc Pit (where even the popular Boba Fett met an unfortunate end), and the climactic battle between Luke, the Emperor, and Darth Vader. It was also the first time Luke Skywalker looked really striking, sporting a cool black Jedi outfit and a new hand.

The story feels a little predictable at times, echoing familiar tropes – like a massive Imperial weapon needing to be destroyed and the usual triumphant celebration afterward. While enjoyable, it doesn’t entirely break new ground.

3. Star Wars: Episode V The Empire Strikes Back

Release date: May 21, 1980
Director: Irvin Kershner
Cast: Mark Hamill, Harrison Ford, Carrie Fisher, Billy Dee Williams, Frank Oz, David Prowse, Anthony Daniels. Peter Mayhew

Following the destruction of their secret base on the icy planet Hoth, the Rebel Alliance scatters. Luke Skywalker goes to the swamp planet Dagobah to learn the ways of the Jedi from the legendary Master Yoda. Meanwhile, Han Solo, Princess Leia, and Chewbacca are pursued by Darth Vader and the forces of the Empire as they attempt to escape.

Many fans consider The Empire Strikes Back to be the strongest film in the Star Wars saga – some even compare it to The Godfather Part II in terms of its quality and impact.

It’s easy to see why this film is so beloved – it’s truly exceptional and full of unforgettable scenes. The Battle of Hoth feels like a classic war movie, but with the iconic AT-AT walkers taking the place of tanks. Lando’s betrayal and Han Solo being frozen in carbonite were genuinely shocking for many of us who grew up admiring Han as an action hero, and the major plot twist completely caught audiences by surprise back then.

Empire also gave us one of Star Wars’ most iconic characters in Yoda and some incredible locations like Cloud City, Hoth, and Dagobah, although having watched the original trilogy and Rogue One: A Star Wars Story again recently, Luke’s Jedi training is honestly a bit dull. Sorry, I know.

The Empire Strikes Back is a remarkably strong second chapter in the Star Wars saga, and was a surprisingly bold move for the franchise at the time. Unlike A New Hope, it intentionally ends on a cliffhanger, leaving the audience with unanswered questions and a sense of incompleteness.

But then, that’s also exactly why so many people think it’s the best.

2. Rogue One: A Star Wars Story

Release date: December 16, 2016
Director: Gareth Edwards
Cast: Felicity Jones, Diego Luna, Alan Tudyk, Donnie Yen, Ben Mendelsoh

Rogue One takes place right before the events of A New Hope. It tells the story of a band of rebels who risk everything on a crucial mission: stealing the plans for the Death Star before the Empire can use it to control the entire galaxy.

Rogue One is another film about a massive, destructive weapon – but it’s a really good one. Because it’s a standalone ‘Star Wars Story’ and not part of the main series, it’s able to be significantly more serious and gritty.

This story doesn’t have any adorable animals, destined heroes, or sugarcoating. It presents the Empire as it truly is: a harsh, fascist power creating a weapon with the potential to destroy planets.

The series immediately sets a grimmer mood when Cassian Andor kills his own informant to prevent the Empire from capturing him, making the Star Wars universe feel genuinely risky again. Moments later, Donnie Yen’s character, Chirrut Îmwe, delivers a quietly powerful line – “I am one with the Force and the Force is with me” – which quickly became iconic. And Jyn Erso’s speech right before the Scarif mission is truly inspiring and uplifting.

The Battle of Scarif is visually impressive, but what truly makes Rogue One compelling is the increasing sense of urgency as the Death Star plans are passed between rebels while the Empire hunts them down. Even though we know the mission ultimately succeeds, the destruction of Scarif is still incredibly suspenseful, heartbreaking, and strangely beautiful.

What’s truly remarkable is that Rogue One enhances our enjoyment of the original Star Wars film, A New Hope. It’s rare for a prequel to have that effect.

1. Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope

Release date: May 25, 1977
Director: George Lucas
Cast: Mark Hamill, Harrison Ford, Carrie Fisher, Alec Guinness, Peter Cushing

The story follows Luke Skywalker, a young farm boy who becomes involved in a galaxy-wide fight against an evil empire after finding secret plans for a powerful weapon called the Death Star. He teams up with a smuggler named Han Solo, Princess Leia, and the crew of the Millennium Falcon to try and destroy the Death Star and save the galaxy.

Since I was only six months old when the original Star Wars movie, A New Hope, was released, I missed out on seeing that iconic opening scene – the massive Star Destroyer chasing a small Rebel ship – in theaters. It must have been an unforgettable experience in 1977, and even today, it’s still breathtaking.

Star Wars offers a complete cinematic experience. From stunning visuals and the quirky friendship between C-3PO and R2-D2 as they travel across Tatooine, to heartbreaking losses caused by a cruel empire, and even hilarious moments like those in the Cantina – which is packed with memorable lines – the film truly has it all.

Then somebody’s arm gets chopped off.

Yes, for something rated U in Britain, Star Wars could be surprisingly scary. A whole planet was blown up and Darth Vader agonisingly force choked people to death, yet the most terrifying moment was when Luke, Han, Leia, and Chewy escaped into the trash compactor, with Luke dragged beneath the filthy water by an unseen creature while the walls slowly closed in.

The movie was full of exciting action, including lightsaber duels, blaster fights, spaceship battles between X-Wings and TIE Fighters, the Millennium Falcon’s jumps to hyperspace, and the climactic attempt to blow up the Death Star.

Despite feeling like a grand finale, this was actually just the start. Many consider the original Star Wars film to be the best and most satisfying installment in the entire series.

2026-05-26 01:25