A Definitive Ranking of Every Star Wars Movie in the Skywalker Saga
I was long overdue for a complete watch of Star Wars, but when I finally watched the complete Skywalker Saga, I realized what I had been missing for many years. The action, the character development, the mega universe (literally and figuratively)—it's all so well done.
Since I am obsessed, I have done multiple rewatches already. Below, check out my definitive ranking of every episode in the franchise. Spoilers ahead!
9. The Force Awakens
Han Solo was one of my faves from the original series, so it was very jarring to see Kylo Ren (aka Ben) kill him mercilessly. Unlike episodes one through six, I saw more purpose in character deaths other than shock value. It's safe to say his death scene ruined the movie for me—and then Princess Leia spent most of the time consoling Rey and not mourning with the other characters who, you know, spent decades in Han's life.
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8. The Rise of Skywalker
Most people rank The Rise of Skywalker in their last slot. Yes, it is pretty bad, but I did see the remnants of what could have been an amazing plot.
Unlike most, I didn't mind the plot twist that Rey was Sheev Palpatine's granddaughter. And I could've enjoyed Rey and Kylo Ren's relationship—she could've been the thorough realization that Ben was good, just like Padmé Amidala and Luke Skywalker saw in Darth Vader/Anakin Skywalker. But after his death, I didn't really feel like his redemption was deserved since he had multiple unnecessary tantrums.
I also couldn't get past the spirits returning to give Rey the Jedi power. By this point, I still couldn't see why Rey was "the chosen one." And doesn't this defeat the narrative that anyone can be a great Jedi?
7. The Last Jedi
After two rewatches, I can't remember most of what happens in The Last Jedi. I would have preferred to see some characters' purposes established here (Finn, Rose and Poe Dameron—for example). However, it didn't evoke any intense feelings from me. That has to be a good thing for the sequels, right?
6. The Phantom Menace
As most prequels are, The Phantom Menace is about setting the tone. Unfortunately, the film ends up being slow because of it. It's still a lot of fun to watch, despite how long the podracing scene is. I'm also one of the few people who love Jar Jar Binks, and this movie is where I get to see the most of him. If you know, you know.
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5. A New Hope
How could anyone not like A New Hope? It's how we met all the iconic characters, from Princess Leia to Luke and Darth Vader. As for the set-up, there's not too much going on. I simply prefer the second two movies in the original trilogy because they were more action-packed and the everyone's bond shined.
4. The Empire Strikes Back
Woo-hoo! They did it. The Death Star has finally been annihilated. Luke, Leia and Han have almost defeated the Imperial fleet. I was on the edge of my seat while watching this, awaiting the moment for Luke to realize Darth Vader was Anakin. Of course, that didn't happen here, but it made me even more excited for The Return of the Jedi.
3. Return of the Jedi
Now this is where the franchise should have ended. Anakin has his redemption arc. The balance of the universe has been restored. No one has to worry about the return of Palpatine. And all the characters live in the eternal bliss of their final chapter.
Return of the Jedi was, by far, the most satisfying of any in the Skywalker Saga, and I can't resist how fun the ending celebration is. RIP to basically every character in this movie (thanks, sequel trilogy).
2. Revenge of the Sith
I'll have to admit that Anakin, Padmé and Mace Windu are my top characters in the Skywalker Saga, so I'm a bit biased when it comes to these last two.
By this point, the tension is at its peak, and you're counting down the moments until Anakin inevitably becomes Darth Vader. But it was so painful to see the lives it cost to get there. If a movie can make me feel that many emotions, I know it's good. Plus, the fight scenes in Revenge of the Sith are some of my favorites.
1. Attack of the Clones
Unsurprisingly, there are few joyful moments in Star Wars, so I find myself basking in the ones that are. Despite the slight rising tension in Attack of the Clones, I couldn't get enough of Anakin and Padmé's love story. After all, who wouldn't want to frolic through rolling green hills with their soulmate while wearing a beautiful dress?
Aside from the romance, you get to see Anakin grow into who he is and understand the lengths he goes to in order to become the loyal person he believes he is. It makes so much sense for the original trilogy.
Curious to discover our other movie opinions? Click HERE to discover our definitive ranking of the most popular blockbuster film franchises.