Are you ready to embark on an epic space adventure, to journey to a galaxy filled with lightsabers, spaceships, and a cosmic struggle between good and evil? Are you feeling a bit lost in the vast and ever-expanding *Star Wars* universe? You’re not alone! Millions of fans around the world have been captivated by this iconic franchise for decades, and for good reason. The stories are timeless, the characters are unforgettable, and the themes of hope, courage, and the power of belief continue to resonate with audiences of all ages. But with so many movies, television shows, and other media, getting started with *Star Wars* can seem a little daunting.
This guide is designed to take away any confusion and to serve as your ultimate resource on **how to watch *Star Wars***, ensuring you have the best possible experience. We’ll explore different viewing orders, considering both the original theatrical releases and the chronological narrative, and guide you through the many incredible adventures awaiting you in a galaxy far, far away. Whether you’re a seasoned *Star Wars* veteran or a newcomer eager to delve into this captivating world, this article will provide the essential information and recommendations you need.
The *Star Wars* saga, created by the visionary George Lucas, has had a profound impact on popular culture. It’s a story of destiny, family, and the constant struggle between light and darkness, embodied by the Jedi and the Sith. It’s a story of rebellion against tyranny, of the power of belief, and of finding your place in the universe. From the epic space battles to the intimate character moments, *Star Wars* offers something for everyone.
This is more than just a collection of movies and shows; it’s a universe with depth, intricacy, and a powerful legacy that continues to inspire and entertain.
Understanding the Star Wars Universe
Before we dive into the various viewing orders, it’s helpful to understand the core elements that make up the *Star Wars* universe. At its heart, the *Star Wars* story centers on the clash between the Jedi, the guardians of peace and justice, and the Sith, who embrace the dark side of the Force. The Force is an energy field that connects all living things, a mystical power that grants abilities like telekinesis, telepathy, and precognition. The Jedi use the Force for good, while the Sith corrupt it to gain power.
The central conflict plays out through epic space battles, thrilling lightsaber duels, and compelling character arcs. The story explores themes of good versus evil, destiny, hope, and the importance of family and friendship. The characters themselves have become cultural icons. From the brave Luke Skywalker to the resourceful Han Solo, the wise Yoda to the menacing Darth Vader, the characters are immediately recognizable and instantly beloved by fans across the globe.
The main saga consists of nine core films, known as the “Skywalker Saga” (Episodes I-IX), which tell the story of the Skywalker family, their adventures, and their role in shaping the fate of the galaxy. There are also standalone films, which expand upon the universe with thrilling tales that complement and enrich the core saga. As well as an expansive number of television series which explore every nook and cranny of the Star Wars universe.
While *Star Wars* boasts a vast expanded universe of books, comics, video games, and other media, this guide focuses on the primary canon—the films and the key television series—ensuring a cohesive and enjoyable introduction to the saga.
The Original Experience: Release Order
For many fans, the *Star Wars* journey begins in the same way: with the release order. This is the way George Lucas intended the story to be told and experienced, and it remains a perfectly valid and highly recommended method for your viewing pleasure.
Watching in release order offers a sense of surprise, suspense, and nostalgia, and it also allows you to experience the evolution of the *Star Wars* saga from its original, ground-breaking beginnings to the more recent films. Here’s how to watch the films in their original theatrical release order:
*A New Hope* (1977)
The film that started it all! This is where you’ll meet Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, Han Solo, and Darth Vader, as they join the Rebel Alliance in their fight against the evil Galactic Empire. It’s a timeless tale of heroism, friendship, and hope. The movie is an incredible example of how a story can be told through the power of visuals and music.
*The Empire Strikes Back* (1980)
Considered by many to be the greatest *Star Wars* film, *The Empire Strikes Back* is a darker, more complex story that deepens the characters and explores their relationships. The film delivers a compelling narrative with emotional highs and lows.
*Return of the Jedi* (1983)
The climactic conclusion of the original trilogy, *Return of the Jedi* brings the epic conflict between the Rebel Alliance and the Empire to a satisfying close. The film features epic battles, emotional reunions, and an ultimate confrontation with the Dark Side.
*The Phantom Menace* (1999)
The first installment of the prequel trilogy, *The Phantom Menace* takes us back to the origins of the Skywalker saga, introducing young Anakin Skywalker, the future Darth Vader. Though it received mixed reviews upon its release, it offers a crucial look at the political turmoil that would lead to the rise of the Empire.
*Attack of the Clones* (2002)
This film further explores the rise of Anakin Skywalker and his descent towards the dark side. It includes important plot points and the first signs of his corruption.
*Revenge of the Sith* (2005)
This movie tells the tragic story of Anakin’s transformation into Darth Vader. It’s a powerful film that bridges the gap between the prequels and the original trilogy, offering compelling character growth and development.
*The Force Awakens* (2015)
The beginning of a new trilogy, *The Force Awakens* introduces a new generation of heroes, like Rey, Finn, and Poe Dameron, and continues the saga with a sense of new beginnings.
*The Last Jedi* (2017)
This film takes the saga in a new and unexpected direction, challenging established expectations and expanding the universe with a modern sensibility.
*The Rise of Skywalker* (2019)
The epic conclusion to the Skywalker saga. The final chapter in the trilogy brings closure and answers to many of the questions which began in *The Force Awakens*.
*Rogue One: A Star Wars Story* (2016)
A standalone film that takes place between *Revenge of the Sith* and *A New Hope*, *Rogue One* provides a thrilling look at the events that lead to the Rebel Alliance’s victory in the first film. This gives depth to the timeline of the Original Trilogy.
*Solo: A Star Wars Story* (2018)
This film tells the origin story of Han Solo, exploring his early life, his relationship with Chewbacca, and his first meeting with Lando Calrissian.
The Chronological Order: A Prequel First Approach
If you’re eager to see the story unfold in a more linear fashion, you can watch the *Star Wars* films in chronological order, starting with the prequels and ending with the sequels. This offers a different perspective on the saga, letting you see the events leading up to the original trilogy unfold before your eyes.
Here’s how to watch the films in chronological order:
The Phantom Menace
Attack of the Clones
Revenge of the Sith
Solo: A Star Wars Story
Rogue One: A Star Wars Story
A New Hope
The Empire Strikes Back
Return of the Jedi
The Force Awakens
The Last Jedi
The Rise of Skywalker
This approach allows you to witness the origin stories of Darth Vader, Obi-Wan Kenobi, and other key characters, providing a deeper understanding of their motivations and actions. You’ll also see how the events of the prequels impact the original trilogy, adding layers of meaning to the classic films. However, some may feel that the prequels are a less ideal introduction to the series.
The Hybrid Approach: The “Machete Order”
There’s also a more unorthodox viewing order that some fans swear by, known as the “Machete Order.” This approach aims to maximize the impact of key plot twists and enhance the overall storytelling experience, while ensuring a more satisfying viewing experience.
The basic structure of the “Machete Order” is this:
A New Hope
The Empire Strikes Back
Attack of the Clones
Revenge of the Sith
Return of the Jedi
The “Machete Order” is designed to create a specific viewing experience, building suspense and providing a unique way to experience the saga, creating a fresh approach for your viewing. With the increased prevalence of television series and other related stories, this order has decreased in relevance.
Watching Star Wars Series
The *Star Wars* universe is much more than just the films. The series in the *Star Wars* galaxy add much depth and context to the films, and they are a great source of quality entertainment. Here are some of the best shows:
The Mandalorian (Seasons 1-3)
Set after *Return of the Jedi*, this series follows a lone bounty hunter who crosses paths with a mysterious child known as Grogu.
The Book of Boba Fett
This series follows the iconic bounty hunter Boba Fett as he attempts to take control of Jabba the Hutt’s criminal empire.
Obi-Wan Kenobi
This series explores the story of Obi-Wan Kenobi, the Jedi Master who mentored Anakin Skywalker and who watches over Luke Skywalker.
Andor
A grittier, more realistic take on the *Star Wars* universe, *Andor* follows the life of Cassian Andor and his role in the early days of the Rebel Alliance.
Ahsoka
This series follows the adventures of Ahsoka Tano, the former Jedi Padawan of Anakin Skywalker.
The Bad Batch
This animated series follows a group of elite clone troopers known as the “Bad Batch” as they navigate the aftermath of the Clone Wars.
Visions (Anthology Series)
This is a collection of animated short films that offer unique perspectives on the *Star Wars* universe from various animation studios.
Star Wars: Resistance (Animated Series)
This is a light-hearted animated series that follows a group of young Resistance pilots.
Future Shows
As the *Star Wars* universe continues to expand, there are bound to be more shows to come.
The easiest place to watch all of these series is through Disney+, but other places may be an option depending on your local services. As for how you can integrate these series to complement the films, here are a few suggestions.
The Mandalorian and The Book of Boba Fett fit perfectly after Return of the Jedi, and you can even watch episodes of The Book of Boba Fett interspersed with season 3 of The Mandalorian.
Obi-Wan Kenobi fits in between Revenge of the Sith and A New Hope.
Andor and Rogue One complement each other in the timeline and should be seen back to back.
Ahsoka should be seen after Return of the Jedi and the Rebels animated series.
These series are meant to enhance the viewing experience of the films, and the level of integration will depend on the viewer’s preferences.
Additional Content and Considerations
Animated Series
The Clone Wars and Rebels are both amazing animated series that add a lot of depth to the *Star Wars* universe. They’re a great way to expand your knowledge of the timeline, and can be integrated into your watching experience.
Expanded Universe
*Star Wars* has a vast and deep expanded universe with comics, books, and video games, adding further depth and lore.
Re-Watches
*Star Wars* is a great series to re-watch. Each time you view the content, you will be more aware of the intricacies of the plot.
Where to Watch
The primary home for *Star Wars* content is Disney+. This streaming service offers a massive library of movies and series from the *Star Wars* universe. You can find all of the main saga films, the standalone films, and the television series available to stream.
If you prefer to own the films, you can purchase digital copies through various platforms. Physical media, such as Blu-rays and DVDs, is still available, though increasingly less common.
Conclusion
So, how *should* you watch *Star Wars*? There’s no single, definitive answer. Each approach offers a different way to experience the saga, and the best method for you depends on your personal preferences. Whether you prefer to experience the saga in release order, chronological order, or the Machete Order, the key is to find the order that brings you the most joy and allows you to best appreciate the story.
May the Force be with you as you embark on this incredible journey!
