Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back, takes the Star Wars saga to new heights under the direction of Irvin Kershner. With an ensemble cast featuring Mark Hamill as Luke Skywalker, Harrison Ford as Han Solo, Carrie Fisher as Princess Leia, and introducing Billy Dee Williams as Lando Calrissian, this sequel deepens the epic narrative. After a relentless assault by the Empire forces the Rebels to retreat from Hoth, Luke ventures to the Dagobah system to train with the enigmatic Jedi Master Yoda. Meanwhile, Han and Leia navigate a complex relationship while evading Darth Vader's pursuit. The film culminates in one of cinema’s most unforgettable reveals, altering the course of the saga forever. Lauded for its complex story and character development, The Empire Strikes Back was an instant critical and commercial success. It won an Academy Award for Best Sound and received a Special Achievement Award for Visual Effects, highlighting its groundbreaking achievements in film.
Box Office: $550.9 Million
Budget: $33 Million
- Actors: Mark Hamill, Harrison Ford, Carrie Fisher, Billy Dee Williams, Anthony Daniels
- Directed by: Irvin Kershner
Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope, directed by George Lucas, marked the beginning of the most iconic space opera in cinematic history. Released in 1977, the film stars Mark Hamill as Luke Skywalker, Harrison Ford as Han Solo, Carrie Fisher as Princess Leia, and Alec Guinness as Obi-Wan Kenobi. This epic adventure unfolds as Luke Skywalker embarks on a journey from his desolate life on Tatooine after discovering a distress message from Princess Leia, leading him to join the Rebellion against the tyrannical Galactic Empire. Alongside the roguish pilot Han Solo and the wise Jedi Master Obi-Wan, Luke undertakes a daring mission to rescue Leia and deliver plans capable of destroying the Empire’s Death Star. A New Hope revolutionized special effects and storytelling, igniting the global Star Wars phenomenon. It garnered significant critical acclaim, winning six Academy Awards, including Best Visual Effects, Best Original Score for John Williams, and Best Art Direction, among others, while also receiving a Special Achievement for Sound Effects Editing, underscoring its groundbreaking impact on the film industry.
Box Office: $775.8 Million
Budget: $11 Million
- Actors: Mark Hamill, Harrison Ford, Carrie Fisher, Alec Guinness, Peter Cushing
- Directed by: George Lucas
- 1Palpatine4,723 Votes
- 2Darth Vader4,724 Votes
- 3Darth Maul3,904 Votes
Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope, originally released in 1977 under the title "Star Wars," redefined the sci-fi genre under the visionary direction of George Lucas. The film stars Mark Hamill as the earnest and hopeful Luke Skywalker, Harrison Ford as the charismatic smuggler Han Solo, Carrie Fisher as the resolute Princess Leia, and Alec Guinness as the wise and powerful Jedi Master Obi-Wan Kenobi. Set against the backdrop of a galaxy ensnared by the grip of the Galactic Empire, it tells the story of a young farmer, Luke, who embarks on a daring quest to save Princess Leia from the clutches of the nefarious Darth Vader. With the help of Han Solo, his Wookiee co-pilot Chewbacca, and Obi-Wan, Luke undertakes a desperate mission to deliver the plans of the Empire's lethal weapon, the Death Star, to the Rebel Alliance. A New Hope was a monumental success, winning six Academy Awards, including Best Visual Effects, Best Original Score for John Williams' iconic music, and Best Art Direction, solidifying its place as a monumental achievement in filmmaking and a cornerstone of popular culture.
Box Office: $475.1 Million
Budget: $32.5 Million
- Actors: Mark Hamill, Harrison Ford, Carrie Fisher, Billy Dee Williams, Anthony Daniels
- Directed by: Richard Marquand
Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, directed by Gareth Edwards, is a thrilling addition to the Star Wars saga that serves as a direct prequel to the original 1977 film, Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope. Starring Felicity Jones as the rebellious Jyn Erso, Diego Luna as intelligence officer Cassian Andor, and Alan Tudyk voicing the droid K-2SO, the film charts a perilous mission to steal the Death Star plans, the very plans that play a crucial role in the Rebel Alliance's victory over the Galactic Empire. Released in 2016, Rogue One explores themes of sacrifice, courage, and the complexities of war, offering a gritty, ground-level view of the Star Wars universe. The ensemble cast, including memorable performances by Ben Mendelsohn, Mads Mikkelsen, and Forest Whitaker, brings to life this tale of unsung heroes who band together to make a stand against tyranny.
Though Rogue One was celebrated for its visual effects, storytelling, and depth of character, it garnered two Academy Award nominations, including Best Visual Effects and Best Sound Mixing, showcasing its technical excellence and its compelling contribution to the broader Star Wars narrative.
Box Office: $1.056 Billion
Budget: $200-265 Million
- Actors: Felicity Jones, Diego Luna, Alan Tudyk, Donnie Yen Ji-Dan, Wen Jiang
- Directed by: Gareth Edwards
Dig Deeper Fan Theory: Why ‘Rogue One’ Is Actually A Horror Movie- And Deeper All The References To Other Star Wars Films In Rogue One
Also ranks #1 on Every Star Wars Spinoff, Ranked By How Much They Add To The Galaxy
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Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith, directed by George Lucas, serves as the dramatic culmination of the prequel trilogy, exploring the tragic fall of Anakin Skywalker and his transformation into Darth Vader. Released in 2005, the film stars Hayden Christensen as Anakin Skywalker, Ewan McGregor as Obi-Wan Kenobi, Natalie Portman as Padmé Amidala, and Ian McDiarmid as Chancellor Palpatine/Darth Sidious. Set against the backdrop of the Clone Wars' final days, Revenge of the Sith delves into the sinister machinations that lead to the rise of the Galactic Empire and the near-extermination of the Jedi Order. Betrayal, loss, and an intense lightsaber duel between Anakin and Obi-Wan on the volcanic planet of Mustafar punctuate this dark chapter in the Star Wars saga.
Revenge of the Sith was noted for its poignant narrative, impressive visual effects, and John Williams' compelling score. While it marked a controversial yet pivotal point in the Star Wars series, the film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Makeup and received praise for its action sequences and special effects, although it did not secure a win in this category. Its portrayal of Anakin's descent and the Emperor's rise remains a crucial piece of the expansive Star Wars narrative.
Box Office: $868.4 Million
Budget: $113 Million
- Actors: Ewan McGregor, Natalie Portman, Hayden Christensen, Ian McDiarmid, Samuel L. Jackson
- Directed by: George Lucas
Star Wars Episode VII: The Force Awakens, directed by J.J. Abrams, reignited the Star Wars saga for a new generation while paying homage to the original trilogy. Released in 2015, it features a mix of familiar faces and new heroes, including Daisy Ridley as Rey, John Boyega as Finn, Adam Driver as Kylo Ren, and brings back Harrison Ford as Han Solo, Carrie Fisher as Leia Organa, and Mark Hamill as Luke Skywalker. Set approximately 30 years after the defeat of the Empire, the film introduces the galaxy to a new threat: the First Order, an organization seeking to destroy the New Republic. The story follows Rey and Finn as they join forces with the Resistance, led by Leia Organa, in a quest to find Luke Skywalker and restore peace to the galaxy.
The Force Awakens was both a critical and commercial success, praised for its dynamic direction, engaging story, and compelling characters. It received five Academy Award nominations, including for Best Original Score and Best Visual Effects, showcasing its achievements in music, special effects, and sound editing. While it did not secure a win in these categories, the film's impact on the franchise and its ability to blend nostalgic elements with new storytelling secured its place as a beloved addition to the Star Wars legacy.
Box Office: $2.068 Billion
Budget: $306 Million
- Actors: Harrison Ford, Mark Hamill, Carrie Fisher, Adam Driver, Daisy Ridley
- Directed by: J.J. Abrams
- Dig Deeper Eye-Opening Fan Theories About Max Von Sydow's Character In 'The Force Awakens'
- Also ranks #4 on Movies Where Major Characters Didn't Survive The Original Endings
- Also ranks #8 on 14 Times Plot Armor Was Way Too Strong For Action Movie Protagonists
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Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace, directed by George Lucas, marked the beginning of the prequel trilogy, exploring the events that set the stage for the original Star Wars saga. Released in 1999, the film introduces audiences to a younger Obi-Wan Kenobi, played by Ewan McGregor, and his mentor Qui-Gon Jinn, portrayed by Liam Neeson. Set amidst a backdrop of political turmoil in the Galactic Republic, the movie follows Jedi Knights as they encounter Anakin Skywalker, a young slave on Tatooine with unusually strong connections to the Force, played by Jake Lloyd. Natalie Portman stars as Queen Padmé Amidala, leading her people against the Trade Federation's blockade. The film also unveils the sinister Darth Maul, bringing a new level of menace to the Star Wars universe.
Despite receiving mixed reviews from critics, especially concerning its narrative and character development, The Phantom Menace was a box office success. It was celebrated for its visual effects and John Williams' musical score, winning the BAFTA Award for Best Visual Effects and receiving three Academy Award nominations, including Best Sound and Best Visual Effects, showcasing its technical prowess and its lasting impact on the cinematic landscape of science fiction.
Box Office: $1.027 Billion
Budget: $115 Million
- Actors: Liam Neeson, Ewan McGregor, Natalie Portman, Jake Lloyd, Pernilla August
- Directed by: George Lucas
- 1Obi-Wan Kenobi126 Votes
- 2Qui-Gon Jinn135 Votes
- 3Darth Maul128 Votes
Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones, directed by George Lucas, is the second installment in the prequel trilogy that digs deeper into the Star Wars lore. Released in 2002, the film stars Hayden Christensen as Anakin Skywalker, showcasing his growth as a Jedi Knight under the tutelage of Obi-Wan Kenobi, portrayed by Ewan McGregor. Natalie Portman returns as Senator Padmé Amidala, whose life is under threat, pulling Anakin into a whirlwind of protection and forbidden love. The story unfolds against the backdrop of the Republic on the brink of war, with Count Dooku, played by Christopher Lee, leading a separatist movement that threatens the galaxy's peace.
Despite receiving mixed reviews for its screenplay and character development, Attack of the Clones was praised for its groundbreaking visual effects and action sequences. The movie's advancements in digital filmmaking, particularly the use of digital cameras for shooting, set new standards in the industry. While it did not win any major awards, it was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Visual Effects, acknowledging its contribution to cinematic technology and its visually rich portrayal of the expansive Star Wars universe.
Box Office: $653.8 Million
Budget: $115 Million
- Actors: Ewan McGregor, Natalie Portman, Hayden Christensen, Christopher Lee, Samuel L. Jackson
- Directed by: George Lucas
Solo: A Star Wars Story, directed by Ron Howard, offers an exhilarating glimpse into the early escapades of the galaxy's most beloved scoundrel, Han Solo. Released in 2018, the film stars Alden Ehrenreich stepping into the iconic role of Han Solo, with Woody Harrelson, Emilia Clarke, Donald Glover as Lando Calrissian, and Joonas Suotamo as Chewbacca joining him on this high-stakes adventure. Set before the events of the original Star Wars trilogy, the movie explores Han's formative years as he embarks on a daring heist within the criminal underworld. Along the way, viewers witness the origin of his legendary friendship with Chewbacca and his initial encounters with Lando Calrissian, setting the stage for his future as a renowned figure in the Rebel Alliance.
While Solo: A Star Wars Story delivers action-packed moments, compelling character dynamics, and further enriches the Star Wars universe's lore, it faced mixed reviews and fell short of box office expectations. Despite this, the film was recognized for its technical achievements; it received a nomination for Best Visual Effects at the Academy Awards. Though it did not win, the nomination underscores the movie's contribution to the visual legacy of the Star Wars saga, ensuring its place as a visually captivating exploration of one of cinema's most iconic characters.
Box Office: $393.2 Million
Budget: $275-300 Million
- Actors: Alden Ehrenreich, Emilia Clarke, Donald Glover, Woody Harrelson, Joonas Suotamo
- Directed by: Ron Howard
- Dig Deeper Easter Eggs In Solo You Definitely Missed
- And Deeper 10 Reasons Why 'Solo' Surpasses 'Rogue One'
- Also ranks #4 on The Biggest Box Office Flops Of The 2010s
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Star Wars: The Last Jedi, directed by Rian Johnson, serves as the eighth installment in the main Star Wars saga, continuing the epic adventure where The Force Awakens left off. Released in 2017, the film stars Daisy Ridley as Rey, who seeks the guidance of Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill) to harness her newly discovered abilities. Meanwhile, the Resistance, led by General Leia Organa (Carrie Fisher), is in a desperate stand against the First Order, now commanded by Kylo Ren (Adam Driver). The Last Jedi intricately weaves themes of legacy, failure, and hope as its characters confront their pasts and uncertain futures.
The film received critical acclaim for its complex narrative, character development, and bold direction, distinguishing it as a polarizing yet undeniably ambitious chapter in the Star Wars saga. The Last Jedi won several accolades and was nominated for four Academy Awards, including Best Original Score, Best Visual Effects, Best Sound Editing, and Best Sound Mixing, highlighting its technical excellence and creative achievements in filmmaking.
Box Office: $1.333 Billion
Budget: $200-317 Million
- Actors: Mark Hamill, Carrie Fisher, Adam Driver, Daisy Ridley, John Boyega
- Directed by: Rian Johnson
- Dig Deeper Things You Didn't Know About Kylo Ren
- And Deeper Aporgable Fan Art That Will Make You Wish Porgs Were Real
- Also ranks #1 on Movies Where The Cast And Crew Disagreed About Its Meaning
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Star Wars: Episode IX - The Rise of Skywalker, directed by J.J. Abrams, concludes the epic Skywalker saga that spanned nine films over four decades. Released in 2019, it stars Daisy Ridley as Rey, Adam Driver as Kylo Ren, John Boyega as Finn, and Oscar Isaac as Poe Dameron. The film follows the remnants of the Resistance as they face the First Order once again, in a final battle for freedom. Rey continues her journey to understand her place in this vast galaxy, while grappling with her identity and the truth about her heritage. The shadow of Emperor Palpatine looms large, threatening to extinguish hope for a peaceful future.
Though The Rise of Skywalker received mixed reviews for its narrative choices and handling of legacy characters, it provided a visually stunning and action-packed finale to the saga. It was nominated for three Academy Awards: Best Original Score, Best Visual Effects, and Best Sound Editing, acknowledging its achievement in continuing the Star Wars tradition of technical excellence and musical brilliance, despite not winning in these categories.
Box Office: $1.074 Billion
Budget: $275 Million
- Actors: Carrie Fisher, Mark Hamill, Adam Driver, Daisy Ridley, John Boyega
- Directed by: J.J. Abrams
- Dig Deeper 'Rise Of Skywalker' Left Us With Just So Many Questions About The Star Wars Universe
- And Deeper How 'Star Wars: Episode IX' Would Have Been Different If Colin Trevorrow Hadn't Been Fired
- Also ranks #1 on 16 Movies That Shoehorned In Romances That Made No Sense
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COLLECTION18 LISTS
Go See a Star WarEverything from A New Hope to The Rise of Skywalker, including trivia, behind the scenes photos, jokes, gifts, Grogu (Baby Yoda), and all the rankings you can handle.
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Go See a Star War
Everything from A New Hope to The Rise of Skywalker, including trivia, behind the scenes photos, jokes, gifts, Grogu (Baby Yoda), and all the rankings you can handle.
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