Are you ready to immerse yourself in the Star Wars world and explore a galaxy far, far away? Whether it's your first time diving head-first into the epic space opera or you're simply looking to brush up your knowledge on order and chronology within the iconic franchise, this guide is here to help. From movies (including spin-offs) to TV series—we've compiled all the different types of original media content into one comprehensive list so you can watch the entire saga from start to finish. Keep reading for a detailed explanation of how best to experience the full breadth of Star Wars!
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Star Wars: Tales of the Jedi
Release date: October 26, 2022
Cast: Ashley Eckstein, Corey Burton, Dee Bradley Baker
IMDb Rating: 8.2/10
Time Frame: approximately 50 BBY-18 BBY
Star Wars: Tales of the Jedi is an essential part of any Star Wars fan's collection. It offers a deep dive into canonical characters like Count Dooku and Ahsoka Tano and a look at some of the events and lore from within this beloved universe. From Ahsoka's journey towards becoming a Jedi to Dooku's dark descent, these six episodes provide a unique look into a time before the events of The Phantom Menace. With its mysterious storylines, exciting battles, and deep character exploration, Star Wars: Tales of the Jedi is a must-watch for any Star Wars fan.
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Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace
Release date: May 19, 1999
Cast: Liam Neeson, Ewan McGregor, Natalie Portman
IMDb Rating: 6.5/10
Time Frame: 32 BBY
Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace tells the story of Obi-Wan Kenobi (Ewan McGregor) and Qui-Gon Jinn (Liam Neeson) as they battle the evil Trade Federation and the mysterious Darth Maul. Along the way, they meet a young Anakin Skywalker (Jake Lloyd), destined to become a mighty Jedi Knight.
The film features some iconic moments in Star Wars history, including Qui-Gon's introduction of midi-chlorians, the first meeting between Anakin and Padme Amidala (Natalie Portman), and a thrilling lightsaber battle between Obi-Wan Kenobi and Darth Maul.
The Phantom Menace is an entertaining and visually appealing film that features some iconic moments and incredible performances from its stars. It's essential viewing for any Star Wars fan, as it sets the stage for the entire saga.
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Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones
Release date: May 16, 2002
Cast: Ewan McGregor, Natalie Portman, Hayden Christensen
IMDb Rating: 6.6/10
Time Frame: 22 BBY
Attack of the Clones is the second installment in the prequel trilogy and continues to explore Anakin's journey, who is now a young adult full of angst. The film also introduces us to Count Dooku, played by Christopher Lee, and one of the most potent Sith lords. Obi-Wan Kenobi discovers an army of clones being created for the Republic, as well as an attempt by the Separatist group led by Count Dooku to overthrow the Republic using a droid army.
The movie also features one of the best fighting scenes in Star Wars history and is full of thrilling action sequences. It lays out many important details for understanding later movies and events in the Star Wars universe.
Attack of the Clones is considered one of the best films in the Star Wars series. It also sets up the animated movie The Clone Wars and a six-season animated TV series under the same title.
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The Clone Wars (movie)
Release date: August 15, 2008
Cast: Matt Lanter, Ashley Eckstein, James Arnold Taylor
IMDb Rating: 5.9/10
Time Frame: 22 BBY
Star Wars: The Clone Wars is an epic tale of good versus evil set in the Star Wars universe. It follows Anakin Skywalker and his padawan Ahsoka Tano as they undertake a dangerous mission to rescue Jabba the Hutt's son from the Separatists, led by Count Dooku and Jabba's uncle Ziro. Along the way, they must contend with fierce battles, treacherous villains, and their own personal demons. The thrilling conclusion culminates in a spectacular lightsaber duel between Anakin and Dooku, bringing the Clone Wars to an end.
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The Clone Wars (2008 TV series)
Release date: October 3, 2008
Cast: Matt Lanter, Ashley Eckstein, James Arnold Taylor
IMDb Rating: 8.4/10
Time Frame: 22-19 BBY
Star Wars: The Clone Wars is a groundbreaking television series in the Star Wars universe. It captured the imagination of audiences around the world and changed the way people think of animated programming. Loosely based on George Lucas' Expanded Universe, it follows the events during the three-year conflict between the Galactic Republic and Separatist Alliance.
The show featured many of the characters from the prequel trilogy, such as Obi-Wan Kenobi and Anakin Skywalker, but also introduced a plethora of new characters, such as Ahsoka Tano, Captain Rex, and Cad Bane. It also featured some villains from previous Star Wars films and novels, including Count Dooku and General Grievous.
Despite being a television series, The Clone Wars was filled with high-budget production values from the start. It featured incredible visuals, an engaging story, and stellar voice acting from cast members such as Matt Lanter (Anakin Skywalker), Ashley Eckstein (Ahsoka Tano), and Dee Bradley Baker (Captain Rex).
Star Wars: The Clone Wars is considered one of the best-animated series ever created, and it has firmly cemented its place in Star Wars lore. It's a show that will continue to be remembered for years.
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Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith
Release date: May 19, 2005
Cast: Ewan McGregor, Natalie Portman, Hayden Christensen
IMDb Rating: 7.6/10
Time Frame: 19 BBY
Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith's plot takes place three years after Attack of the Clones when the Clone Wars end. Anakin Skywalker (Hayden Christensen) has grown in strength and power due to the dark side of the Force and is starting to succumb to its temptations. Obi-Wan Kenobi (Ewan McGregor) must prevent Anakin from turning completely while Chancellor Palpatine (Ian McDiarmid) increases his power in the Galactic Senate.
The film features some of the most iconic moments of the entire saga, including a dramatic lightsaber duel between Anakin and Obi-Wan on the planet of Mustafar. After a fight, Anakin is left maimed and in need of cybernetic enhancements to stay alive, becoming Darth Vader, who will become one of the most iconic villains in all of cinematic history.
Overall, Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith is an essential part of the Star Wars saga and a must-watch for any fan. With its action-packed battles, thrilling lightsaber duels, dramatic performances, and iconic musical scores, this film serves as a fitting conclusion to the prequel trilogy. It's one of the most iconic movies of all time, and it has rightfully earned its place in cinematic history.
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The Bad Batch
Release date: May 4, 2021
Cast: Ewan McGregor, Natalie Portman, Hayden Christensen
IMDb Rating: 7.8/10
Time Frame: approximately 19 BBY
The Bad Batch follows a unique squad of clones with genetic mutations. Led by Clone Force 99 (nicknamed "the Bad Batch"), they are composed of Hunter, Wrecker, Tech, Echo, and Omega - each offering different skills to complete their mercenary missions. The series itself follows the Bad Batch on their journey as they face a changing galaxy in the aftermath of the Clone Wars and begin to question their place in it.
They encounter several new characters throughout their adventures, including Cid (an Ugnaught engineer) and Crosshair (a former member of the Republic's elite clone force). Through these characters, the Bad Batch comes to understand their place in the galaxy and how they can use their unique abilities to help protect those who cannot defend themselves.
The series is filled with action and adventure as they explore new planets, battle against former enemies, and confront their inner demons on the road to redemption. With an intriguing storyline and thrilling action, The Bad Batch will surely excite Star Wars fans. Along the way, viewers get to experience the beloved characters from the original films in a whole new light and learn more about what happened after Order 66.
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Solo: A Star Wars Story
Release date: May 25, 2018
Cast: Alden Ehrenreich, Woody Harrelson, Emilia Clarke
IMDb Rating: 6.9/10
Time Frame: 13-10 BBY
Solo – A Star Wars Story is an action-packed space adventure that follows a young Han Solo (Alden Ehrenreich), his trusty Wookiee copilot Chewbacca (Joonas Suotamo), and their new companion Lando Calrissian (Donald Glover) as they traverse the galaxy in search of adventure. While on their journey, they face off against criminal masterminds, Imperial forces, and the mysterious Crimson Dawn, all seeking to gain control of a powerful fuel source known as coaxium. Along the way, Han Solo meets unexpected allies such as his former friend Qi'Ra (Emilia Clarke) and Tobias Beckett (Woody Harrelson), a notorious outlaw and his mentor.
Through thrilling space battles, daring escapades, and a few narrow escapes, Han Solo learns to trust himself and take risks to follow his destiny of becoming one of the greatest smugglers in the galaxy. With an all-star cast featuring Thandie Newton, Paul Bettany, Phoebe Waller-Bridge, and more, Solo – A Star Wars Story is an unforgettable adventure that will take fans into the beloved world of Star Wars in a completely new way.
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Obi-Wan Kenobi
Release date: May 25, 2018
Cast: Alden Ehrenreich, Woody Harrelson, Emilia Clarke
IMDb Rating: 7.1/10
Time Frame: 9 BBY
The highly anticipated live-action Disney+ series Obi-Wan Kenobi follows the story of Obi-Wan between Revenge Of The Sith and A New Hope. It will explore the events shaping his character and the relationships between Anakin Skywalker/Darth Vader (Hayden Christensen), and Princess Leia (Vivien Lyra Blair).
The series focuses on Obi-Wan's attempt to protect a young Leia from the Empire, as well as his struggles with the dark side of the Force. It also features several classic Star Wars characters, including Ian McDiarmid's Palpatine and Liam Neeson's Qui-Gon Jinn, who will both appear in the finale.
The cast also includes Moses Ingram as a ruthless Inquisitor and Joel Edgerton and Bonnie Piesse, reprising their roles from the prequel trilogy as Owen Lars and Beru Lars, respectively.
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Star Wars Rebels
Release date: October 3, 2014
Cast: Dave Filoni, Simon Kinberg, Carrie Beck
IMDb Rating: 8.0/10
Time Frame: 5-1 BBY (Epilogue after 4 ABY)
Star Wars Rebels sets up the galactic civil war between the Empire and the Rebellion by introducing key characters and events leading up to the original trilogy. It follows Ezra and his newfound friends as they battle against the forces of the Empire to protect innocent lives and help form an actual Rebellion among those oppressed by Imperial tyranny. Along their journeys, they acquire allies from both sides of the conflict, including Ahsoka Tano, Lando Calrissian, and Saw Gerrera. As the series progresses, Ezra meets new Force Sensitive characters such as Bendu and Zeb Orrelios and begins to embrace his Lasat heritage on Lira San.
The series also explores the themes of family, loss, trust, loyalty, courage, and self-discovery while introducing exciting new creatures, locations, and storylines. As the story unfolds, viewers understand that there is much more in store for this brave little group of rebels as they fight to restore hope and freedom in a galaxy far, far away.
Ultimately, Star Wars Rebels provides an exciting look at the early days of the Rebellion and introduces beloved characters from the original trilogy while introducing new characters, plotlines, and storylines to the larger Star Wars universe. The show also continues to explore themes of trust, loyalty, and courage as it chronicles the adventures of Ezra Bridger and his rebel allies as they work together to fight the Empire and restore hope in a galaxy.
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Andor
Release date: September 21, 2022
Cast: Diego Luna, Kyle Soller, Stellan Skarsgård
IMDb Rating: 8.4/10
Time Frame: 5-0 BBY
The Andor series is set in a galaxy far, far away, and follows Cassian Andor in his early days as a Rebel spy. Viewers met him just before the start of the Galactic Civil War when he was still a street-level thief and occasional soldier for hire. As the series progresses, we'll follow Cassian on his journey as he develops into a Rebel spy and hero. He'll take on dangerous missions, form unlikely alliances and ultimately become one of the leaders of the Rebellion. Along the way, we'll see how Cassian's character develops as he discovers his moral compass, courage, and purpose in life.
The show also stars Alan Tudyk as K-2SO, a reprogrammed Empire droid who serves as Cassian's loyal companion. Other actors include Genevieve O'Reilly reprising her role of Mon Mothma from Rogue One, and Stellan Skarsgard as an Imperial Agent.
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Rogue One: A Star Wars Story
Release date: December 16, 2016
Cast: Felicity Jones, Diego Luna, Ben Mendelsohn
IMDb Rating: 7.8/10
Time Frame: 0 BBY
Rogue One – A Star Wars Story follows Jyn Erso, a young woman recruited by the Rebel Alliance to be part of a daring mission to steal the plans of the Empire's ultimate weapon, the Death Star. Along with her companion Cassian Andor and a group of rebels, she embarks on an epic adventure filled with danger, excitement, and thrilling space battles.
The movie focuses on the struggles of Jyn as she deals with a cruel empire and an uncertain future while also giving us a glimpse into the world of the Rebellion and its fight for freedom. Alongside amazing computer-generated visuals, Rogue One features some of the franchise's best action sequences, including a tense ground battle on the planet Scarif and an epic fleet battle over its skies.
The movie also features stunning performances from stars such as Felicity Jones, Diego Luna, Ben Mendelsohn, Donnie Yen, and Alan Tudyk. The ensemble cast helps to create a unique group dynamic that makes for compelling viewing while also making us care about the characters and their ultimate mission.
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Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope
Release date: May 25, 1977
Cast: Mark Hamill, Harrison Ford, Carrie Fisher
IMDb Rating: 8.6/10
Time Frame: 0 BBY/ABY
Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope is a classic sci-fi fantasy movie that follows the story of Luke Skywalker and his band of rebels as they fight against the evil Galactic Empire. Directed by George Lucas, this movie was an instant hit when it was released in 1977, and its popularity has only grown over the years. The movie is renowned for its special effects, including a groundbreaking use of motion-controlled cameras and models. It was also the first Star Wars film to introduce iconic characters such as Darth Vader, Princess Leia, Han Solo, and Chewbacca. The epic battle between good and evil has inspired millions of fans worldwide and continues to be loved by children and adults alike. It is an iconic film that continues to be an inspiration for filmmakers and fans alike. Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope has transcended generations, becoming one of the most beloved movies in history. Its influence can still be felt in many forms, from blockbuster movies to popular video games. The film has become a beloved classic worldwide and will continue to be enjoyed by generations of fans for years to come.
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Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back
Release date: May 21, 1980
Cast: Mark Hamill, Harrison Ford, Carrie Fisher
IMDb Rating: 8.7/10
Time Frame: 3 ABY
Regarding its legacy, The Empire Strikes Back will always be remembered as one of the best films in the series. Its thrilling story and spectacular visuals made it a must-see for any fan, and its characters remain some of the most beloved in popular culture today. Its influence is still felt in film and television, proving that this timeless classic will never be forgotten.
The Empire Strikes Back features epic space battles between the Rebel Alliance and Imperial forces, a thrilling lightsaber duel between Darth Vader and Luke Skywalker, and groundbreaking special effects that make it one of the most beloved films of all time.
The film also introduced some of the most memorable and beloved characters in the Star Wars universe, including Lando Calrissian, Princess Leia's adopted brother General Solo and the loyal Wookiee Chewbacca.
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Star Wars Episode VI: Return of the Jedi
Release date: May 25, 1983
Cast: Mark Hamill, Harrison Ford, Carrie Fisher
IMDb Rating: 8.3/10
Time Frame: 4 ABY
Star Wars: Episode VI - Return of the Jedi is the concluding chapter in George Lucas' original Star Wars trilogy. After rescuing Han Solo from Jabba the Hutt, Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, and their allies take on a final mission to destroy the second Death Star that threatens to obliterate the Rebel Alliance. On their journey, they are joined by a new ally, the tiny, furry Ewoks.
The film combines old and new characters as Luke is forced to confront his father, Darth Vader, and Emperor Palpatine in an epic battle between good and evil. In a stunning twist of fate, Vader ultimately turns against the Emperor and saves his son's life, sacrificing himself.
Return of the Jedi features some of the series' most iconic moments, including Luke's fight with Vader and his duel against Emperor Palpatine. The film also contains some of its most beloved characters, including fan favorites like Lando Calrissian, Chewbacca, and R2-D2.
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The Mandalorian
Release date: November 12, 2019
Cast: Pedro Pascal, Carl Weathers, Giancarlo Esposito
IMDb Rating: 8.7/10
Time Frame: 9 ABY
The show follows Din Djarin, a Mandalorian bounty hunter played by Pedro Pascal (Game of Thrones), as he navigates a lawless galaxy far from the reaches of the New Republic.
The show introduces several new characters, including Cara Dune (Gina Carano) and Greef Karga (Carl Weathers). However, the biggest draw is the fan-favorite character known as "Baby Yoda" or Grogu. His popularity has exploded, and the character is now a global phenomenon.
The Mandalorian also brings back various fan favorites from the Star Wars universe, including Boba Fett (Temuera Morrison) and Ahsoka Tano (Rosario Dawson). The show even features a cameo by Luke Skywalker, which made thousands of Star Wars fans tear up.
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The Book of Boba Fett
Release date: December 29, 2021
Cast: Temuera Morrison, Ming-Na Wen, Frank Trigg
IMDb Rating: 7.3/10
Time Frame: approximately 9 ABY
The Book of Boba Fett is a stand-alone series set in the same timeline as The Mandalorian. It centers on the iconic bounty hunter Boba Fett, played by Temuera Morrison. In the series, Boba Fett teams up with Fennec Shand (Ming-Na Wen) to take over Jabba the Hutt's palace and establish control of Jabba's former territory on Tatooine.
The series also provides an insight into how Boba Fett survived his plunge into the Sarlacc Pit after Return of the Jedi, as well as showing Din Djarin (Pedro Pascal) popping up to help Boba Fett fend off an enemy threat. Ultimately, the series leads to a reunion between Din and Grogu, setting the stage for The Mandalorian season three.
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Star Wars Resistance
Release date: October 7, 2018
Cast: Christopher Sean, Scott Lawrence, Josh Brener
IMDb Rating: 5.2/10
Time Frame: 34 ABY
Star Wars Resistance is a spin-off animated series from the Star Wars franchise, executive produced by Dave Filoni, who has worked on The Clone Wars and Rebels. The show follows Kazuda Xiono, a young pilot recruited to join the New Republic's Resistance after being given command of a starfighter named Fireball. Kazuda is assigned to spy on the First Order while acting as a double agent for Poe Dameron.
The series features several familiar faces from both The Force Awakens and The Last Jedi, such as General Leia Organa (voiced by Rachel Butera), Poe Dameron (Oscar Isaac), and Captain Phasma (Gwendoline Christie). Other characters from the Star Wars universe also appear, such as General Hux (Ben Diskin) and Kel Mitchell's character Flix.
The first season takes place six months before The Force Awakens, while the second season bridges the gap between The Last Jedi and The Rise of Skywalker. There are plenty of easter eggs and nods to the original movies, as well as a few tie-in comic books and novels.
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Star Wars Episode VII: The Force Awakens
Release date: December 18, 2015
Cast: Daisy Ridley, Adam Driver, Harrison Ford
IMDb Rating: 7.8/10
Time Frame: 34 ABY
Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens marks the beginning of the latest trilogy in the Star Wars franchise and is widely considered one of the best movie entries. Directed by J.J. Abrams, this installment introduces fans to a new set of characters along with beloved original ones such as Han Solo (Harrison Ford), Chewbacca (Peter Mayhew), and Leia (Carrie Fisher).
The story revolves around Rey (Daisy Ridley) and Finn (John Boyega), two people from different worlds who team up to help the Resistance fight off the First Order, a remnant of the former Empire. Along their journey, they meet veteran characters such as Han, Chewie, and Leia and are tasked with destroying a planet-killing superweapon. Along the way, Rey discovers her Force powers and meets Kylo Ren/Ben Solo (Adam Driver), who has been seduced by the dark side. The movie ends with Rey using a secret map to locate the missing Luke Skywalker.
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Star Wars Episode VIII: The Last Jedi
Release date: December 15, 2017
Cast: Daisy Ridley, Mark Hamill, Adam Driver
IMDb Rating: 6.9/10
Time Frame: 34 ABY
Taking place immediately after The Force Awakens, this thrilling installment follows Rey as she continues her journey to become a Jedi while simultaneously trying to save the Resistance from the First Order. Alongside Rey, old friends Finn and Poe are also on a mission to save their allies.
Kylo Ren appears as a major antagonist in this movie, with his storyline taking center stage as he struggles between loyalty to the dark side of the Force and his moral values. At times both terrifying and sympathetic, Kylo is an incredibly complex and captivating character that takes audiences on an emotional roller coaster.
The original trilogy's Luke Skywalker also returns in the Last Jedi, now older and wiser but still trying to keep a firm grip on his values as he is pulled into the conflict between Rey and Kylo Ren. Along with old friends also come new faces – Rose Tico and Vice Admiral Holdo, both of whom help the Resistance in the fight against the First Order.
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Star Wars Episode IX: The Rise of Skywalker
Release date: December 20, 2019
Cast: Daisy Ridley, Adam Driver, Carrie Fisher
IMDb Rating: 6.5/10
Time Frame: 35 ABY
Taking place around a year after the events of Episode VIII - The Last Jedi, this thrilling installment brings the story to a climactic end with Rey, Finn, Poe, and Kylo Ren all playing important roles. The return of the Emperor Palpatine and his Final Order plan is a significant plot point, as is Kylo Ren's Bendemption and dramatic fight alongside Rey in the climactic battle. Fans were also treated to some powerful moments between Rey and Ben Solo before he sacrificed himself.
What is the Star Wars Movies Timeline?
The original Star Wars trilogy consists of the films A New Hope (1977), The Empire Strikes Back (1980), and Return of the Jedi (1983). These three films tell the story of Luke Skywalker, a young farm boy from Tatooine who discovers that he is a powerful Jedi Knight destined to battle the evil Galactic Empire.
In 1999, the prequel trilogy was released consisting of The Phantom Menace (1999), Attack of the Clones (2002), and Revenge of the Sith (2005). These films tell the story of Anakin Skywalker, Luke's father, who falls to the dark side to become Darth Vader.
In 2015, Disney acquired Lucasfilm and began producing a new trilogy of Star Wars films, starting with The Force Awakens (2015). This is followed by The Last Jedi (2017) and The Rise of Skywalker (2019), which conclude the Skywalker saga.
In 2020 Disney+ released The Mandalorian, a live-action show set five years after the events of Return of the Jedi. This show follows a bounty hunter as he embarks on various adventures in a galaxy far, far away.
Currently, Disney is developing new Star Wars films and series that will continue the saga set in a long time ago in a galaxy far, far away. Fans of the franchise can look forward to many more stories and adventures yet to come.
Why is Star Wars Not in Order?
It is because George Lucas, creator of the franchise, wanted to start off with a story that would draw people in and get them interested in the larger universe he was creating. By releasing the original trilogy first, Lucas was able to introduce viewers to the characters, themes and ideas that would be explored more in-depth later on. This allowed him to keep the audience engaged and ensure they understood all the details in one go.
Tell Me the Best Star Wars Movies in Order.
The best way to watch Star Wars movies is by chronological order of the in-universe timeline. This means watching them in the order they actually happened, starting with The Phantom Menace and ending with The Rise of Skywalker. Of course, it's entirely up to you whether or not you choose to watch the spin-offs like Rogue One and Solo – but if you want to get the whole Star Wars experience, we recommend checking them out.
Here's how you should watch the Star Wars movies in order:
Episode I – The Phantom Menace (1999)
Episode II – Attack of the Clones (2002)
Episode III – Revenge of the Sith (2005)
Solo: A Star Wars Story (2018)
Rogue One: A Star Wars Story (2016)
Episode IV – A New Hope (1977)
Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back (1980)
Episode VI – Return of the Jedi (1983)
Episode VII – The Force Awakens (2015)
Episode VIII – The Last Jedi (2017)
Episode IX – The Rise of Skywalker (2019)
How Long Will It Take to Watch All the Star Wars Movies?
25 hours 7 minutes.
Conclusion
We've got you covered if you want to watch the Star Wars movies and TV series in chronological order. This article lists all the Star Wars movies and TV shows in order so that you can binge-watch your way through the entire series. Whether you're a diehard fan or just getting started, following this viewing order will ensure you don't miss a single moment of action. So grab some popcorn and settle in for a marathon session of Jedi battles, space adventures, and Force-wielding fun.
