ORDER OF THE STARS
How to watch the Star Wars movies in order
STAR Wars is undeniably one of the most iconic movie franchises in history.
Ever wondered if there's a correct order to watch the films? Fear not, we have a few ways for you...
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How do I watch the Star Wars films in order?
The numerical/episode/chronological order
While many fans disagree, this is the way George Lucas wants you to watch the Star Wars films.
It's suggested this is the easiest way to watch the saga for newbies, as episode order follows Anakin’s story.
“Start with one. That’s the way to do it right: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6,” he told in 2015. “That’s the way they’re supposed to be done.”
But the problem with chronological order is that watching the movies in this way means a few essential plot twists are revealed early on.
Viewing order:
- Episode I: The Phantom Menace
- Episode II: Attack of the Clones
- Episode III: Revenge of the Sith
- Episode IV: A New Hope
- Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back
- Episode VI: Return of the Jedi
- Episode VII: The Force Awakens
- Episode VIII: The Last Jedi
- Episode IX: The Rise of Skywalker
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The original/theatrical order
Many fans argue the theatrical order is the best way to be introduced to the films, as many people prefer the original three films to the sequel.
Many people think the plots of the original three are better than the origin story of Anakin Skywalker in the prequel series.
Watching the films in order also means the advances in special effects seem less out of place.
Viewing order:
- Episode IV: A New Hope
- Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back
- Episode VI: Return of the Jedi
- Episode I: The Phantom Menace
- Episode II: Attack of the Clones
- Episode III: Revenge of the Sith
- Episode VII: The Force Awakens
- Episode VIII: The Last Jedi
- Episode IX: The Rise of Skywalker
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The machete order
This way to watch the series was suggested by superfan Rod Hilton in 2011 — and it has since gained a lot of momentum.
This method completely ignores Episode I, as he says it's irrelevant to the larger story.
Hilton argues that once the twist in Empire Strikes Back is unearthed — surprise: Darth Vader is Luke’s father — viewers should watch the prequels to understand why Vader crossed over to the dark side.
The machete method leaves Return of the Jedi to conclude the series, so viewers ready to watch The Force Awakens.
Viewing order:
- Episode IV: A New Hope
- Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back
- Episode II: Attack of the Clones
- Episode III: Revenge of the Sit
- Episode VI: Return of the Jedi
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Is Rise of Skywalker the last Star Wars movie?
It is the last film in the Skywalker saga - which starts with Episode One and will end with Episode Nine
However, you can expect more spin off Star Wars films.
Three 'Star Wars Story 'movies are scheduled from 2022 through to 2026,
Over recent years there has been Solo: A Star Wars Story (2018) and Rogue One: A Star Wars Story (2016).
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