In honor of May the Fourth, I have decided to rank every episode of Star Wars. Star Wars is a franchise that has contributed a lot in shaping my life. My siblings and I have (basically) watched every film, T.V. show, read every comic book, and built every lego set related to Star Wars. In other words, I am pretty educated in the Star Wars Universe. With that being said...
9. The Last Jedi
Entering this film I had extremely high expectations. J.J. Abrams had done a great job in setting the stage for a new generation of Star Wars movies. Also, I was reading that this film was on par with Empire. However, after seeing the movie I was confused and even somewhat offended. "Star Wars: Episode VIII - The Last Jedi" successfully destroyed the foundation for this entire trilogy. It created some of the worst characters in Star Wars history. It also took characters in directions which were not in line with their nature. Furthermore, it is the ONLY Star Wars film without a lightsaber on lightsaber battle. Many called this film ambitious for taking risks, but I would call it foolish. I could rant forever about this film. If anything I will at least say that it is beautifully shot.
8. Attack of the Clones
Being a kid in the early 2000's, I have a bias towards the prequels. "Star Wars: Episode II - Attack of the Clones" would be considered the worst Star Wars movie by most people. I rewatched this film again last night and it is badly written and fairly confusing. However, growing up with this movie has made me always enjoy the lightsaber fights and action of this film. I also believe the prequels had amazing casts who were given bad dialogue. This film birthed much criticism for Hayden Christensen which I still find unjust. It is not a very good movie, but it is one that I can enjoy.
7. The Phantom Menace
Despite getting lost in politics, "Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace" is a film that I can watch repeatedly and always enjoy. It created the coolest villain in Star Wars in Darth Maul. This movie also gives viewers the initial emotional connection with Anakin Skywalker and sets the stage for his relationship with Padame. It does have scenes filled with boring dialogue and talk of politics, but it makes up for this with great performances and one of the best fight scenes in Star Wars. It also gave birth to the most controversial Star Wars character of all time, Jar Jar Binks.
6. The Rise of Skywalker
The conclusion of the Skywalker era and the Disney trilogy was not the best film ever, but it was enjoyable. I appreciated the film for what it was (J.J. Abrams attempting to recover from the flawed film preceding this one). This movie did have plot holes, but I had to forgive them. Although there were parts that I did not agree with, "Star Wars: Episode IX - The Rise of Skywalker" felt like what a Star Wars finale should feel like. I did not like the constant escalation of powers, but it was not a massive issue. It is dark, beautifully cinematic, has amazing fight scenes, and does a sufficient job of wrapping up the series.
5. A New Hope
The fact that "Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope" falls at number 5 on my list speaks volumes to how great the Star Wars films are. This film is one of the most influential films of all time. It created iconic characters such as Luke, Han, Leia, Darth Vader, Obi-Wan, Chewbacca, C-3PO, and R2-D2. It also revolutionized graphics in film that paved the way for many of the adventure movies we love today. Although it is only number 5, "Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope" is an iconic film that has amazing actors, a great plot, and set up the universe that we all love today. The importance of this movie is undeniable.
4. The Force Awakens
When this movie released, the main criticism was that it was too similar to A New Hope. I did not agree with this. Even with its similarities, "Star Wars: Episode VII - The Force Awakens" was a great start for the Disney trilogy. It established a cast of great new characters, while continuing to develop the old characters we love. It is intense and moments will have you completely speechless. It is easily the best movie in its trilogy and is what I believe to be the best shot movie that Star Wars has to offer.
3. Return of the Jedi
One of the greatest conclusions to a movie series, "Star Wars: Episode VI - Return of the Jedi" is interesting, exciting, and emotional. It shows Luke struggling to deal with his emotions, specifically his rage. The emperor shines through in this film and shows why he is the most evil character in the Star Wars universe. My only complaint was the role of the Ewoks. Return of the Jedi shows the strength of family and finally brings balance to the force. It is a film that is very enjoyable with every watch.
2. Revenge of the Sith
It was very difficult for me to not put "Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith" at my number 1 spot. This film is easily the darkest in the Star Wars film universe. The tragedy of Anakin Skywalker is one of the darkest tragedies ever written. This movie in itself is validation for the entire prequel trilogy. Whether it is Order 66, the encounter with the younglings at the temple, or the inner turmoil of Anakin, Revenge of the Sith is always heavy emotionally. This movie is a one I could watch at any time and could make a case for the number one spot as well.
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