A Comprehensive Guide to Watching the Star Wars Movies in Chronological Order
Star Wars, created by George Lucas, is one of the most iconic and complex franchises in cinematic history. It has provided a vast galactic playground with endless possibilities for settings, cultures, characters, and stories. From its inception in 1977 with Star Wars: A New Hope (Episode IV), the saga has expanded through multiple trilogies, spin-offs, and animated series. The franchise has evolved over time, with different directors taking the reins, such as Dave Filoni and J.J. Abrams.
The original trilogy, which includes A New Hope, The Empire Strikes Back, and Return of the Jedi, remains legendary and serves as the perfect entry point for new fans. However, the prequel and sequel trilogies have sparked both admiration and debate among audiences. In between these major films, there have been wars, missions, and origin stories that have received their own big-screen showcases.
Here’s how to watch the Star Wars movies in chronological order, from The Phantom Menace to The Rise of Skywalker.
01 of 12: Star Wars: The Phantom Menace (Episode I) (1999)
Darth Vader was a towering figure in the imagination of Star Wars fans, making his origin story highly anticipated. While The Phantom Menace initially disappointed many viewers, it has since regained its reputation. Younger audiences remember Ewan McGregor’s Obi-Wan Kenobi and the thrilling pod racing sequences, along with the intense duel between Qui-Gon Jinn and Darth Maul. The film also introduces Anakin Skywalker, played by Jake Lloyd, setting the stage for the central tragedy of the trilogy.
Where to watch: Disney+
02 of 12: Star Wars: Attack of the Clones (Episode II) (2002)
The second installment of the prequel trilogy brings more action and hints at Anakin’s bleak fate. Now the official Jedi protege of Obi-Wan, Anakin begins a romance with Padmé Amidala, now a member of the Galactic Senate. Meanwhile, Chancellor Palpatine operates as a puppetmaster, pulling the strings of Count Dooku and even Anakin himself.
Where to watch: Disney+
03 of 12: Star Wars: The Clone Wars (2008)
This animated feature, set after Attack of the Clones, marks the beginning of the Clone Wars saga. It introduces political machinations involving Dooku and Jabba the Hutt, as well as fan favorites like Anakin’s apprentice, Ahsoka Tano, who later appears in live-action series such as The Mandalorian and Ahsoka.
Where to watch: Disney+
04 of 12: Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith (Episode III) (2005)
The conclusion of the prequel trilogy is dark and tragic. The Republic crumbles as Emperor Palpatine rises to power, and Anakin, increasingly drawn to the dark side, becomes a formidable force. The film culminates in a heartbreaking duel and the birth of two important twins.
Where to watch: Disney+
05 of 12: Solo: A Star Wars Story (2018)
Set between Revenge of the Sith and A New Hope, this film explores the origins of Han Solo, played by Alden Ehrenreich. It introduces Lando Calrissian, portrayed by Donald Glover, and highlights the rivalry between the two smugglers over the Millennium Falcon.
Where to watch: Disney+
06 of 12: Rogue One: A Star Wars Story (2016)
This gritty film takes a more serious approach to the Star Wars universe, focusing on a group of rebels on a suicide mission to steal the Death Star plans. Its revolutionary spirit carries over to the acclaimed series Andor.
Where to watch: Disney+
07 of 12: Star Wars: A New Hope (Episode IV) (1977)
Upon its release in May 1977, Star Wars became a massive hit, captivating fans with its tale of rebellion. It follows a farm boy, a princess, a rogue, and a couple of droids, becoming an iconic slice of American culture. This film concludes the relationship between Obi-Wan Kenobi and Darth Vader.
Where to watch: Disney+
08 of 12: Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back (Episode V) (1980)
Widely regarded as the best Star Wars movie, this darker and more dramatic film features Luke Skywalker learning Jedi knighthood under Yoda. It builds up to one of the most famous plot twists in cinema history.
Where to watch: Disney+
09 of 12: Star Wars: Return of the Jedi (Episode VI) (1983)
The conclusion of the original trilogy ties up loose ends, including the familial twist involving Darth Vader and Luke Skywalker. It features iconic imagery, such as Princess Leia in chains, and introduces the Ewoks.
Where to watch: Disney+
10 of 12: Star Wars: The Force Awakens (Episode VII) (2015)
This film reintroduces the galaxy with a new force-sensitive orphan, Rey, and a new antagonist, Kylo Ren. It also brings back familiar faces like Han Solo and General Leia Organa, alongside new characters like BB-8.
Where to watch: Disney+
11 of 12: Star Wars: The Last Jedi (Episode VIII) (2017)
Rian Johnson’s entry challenges traditional notions of good and evil while deepening the bond between Rey and Kylo Ren. It is known for its artful execution, including the throne-room lightsaber battle and the “Holdo maneuver.”
Where to watch: Disney+
12 of 12: Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker (Episode IX) (2019)
The final film of the sequel trilogy provides a conclusion to the Skywalker family saga. While it is considered weaker than its predecessors, it still offers a grand space battle and a gathering of galaxy-wide characters.
Where to watch: Disney+
Star Wars Movies in Order by Release Date
Star Wars: A New Hope (Episode IV) (1977)
Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back (Episode V) (1980)
Star Wars: Return of the Jedi (Episode VI) (1983)
Star Wars: The Phantom Menace (Episode I) (1999)
Star Wars: Attack of the Clones (Episode II) (2002)
Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith (Episode III) (2005)
Star Wars: The Clone Wars (2008)
Star Wars: The Force Awakens (Episode VII) (2015)
Rogue One: A Star Wars Story (2016)
Star Wars: The Last Jedi (Episode VIII) (2017)
Solo: A Star Wars Story (2018)
Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker (Episode IX) (2019)
