Every Star Wars movie and TV show, ranked worst to best

As a long-time Star Wars fan and someone who grew up with the original trilogy, I have to say that my favorite Star Wars story is “The Empire Strikes Back.” This movie holds a special place in my heart for its impact on me as a young viewer. The moment Luke Skywalker faced Darth Vader and heard the ominous words “I am your father,” I was hooked.

What makes a good Star Wars? Like many things, it’s a little bit different for everyone.

For some, it’s the science fiction details: aliens, droids, and lightsabers.

An alternate expression could be: The aesthetic appeal is strong for some; this is felt through a profound sense of wonder, accentuated by an iconic film score and unusual landscapes.

For some people, it’s all about the characters: thrilling conflicts between the good and the evil, with underdogs facing insurmountable odds.

Andor, our pick for the best TV show of 2022, captured one of the elements that makes Star Wars special, focusing on political intrigue in the period leading up to the start of the Rebellion. And when we at TopMob put our heads together to rank all the canonical movie and television entries in the Star Wars universe, Andor’s unique focus made it hold up even next to the triumphs of the origin Star Wars trilogy.

As a devoted fan of Star Wars, I was part of a nine-member committee filled with fellow enthusiasts from TopMob. We each shared our unique rankings for the movies and TV series we’d watched within the expansive Star Wars universe. The movie or show that ranked last for me earned one point, while the second-to-last received two points, following this pattern. By doing so, those who had immersed themselves in all 23 canonical pieces had a more significant influence on our collective vote due to their extensive context and knowledge.

In simple terms, here’s a list of every officially recognized Star Wars film and series, arranged from least favorite to most preferred. If you aim to watch them all, follow our recommended Star Wars viewing sequence instead.

The “well, at least it’s Star Wars” tier

23. The Rise of Skywalker

As an avid Star Wars fan, I can’t help but get excited when describing one of the most thrilling scenes in the saga. In this pivotal moment, characters from all corners of the galaxy, including the legendary Wedge Antilles himself, gather together to take a stand against the oppressive fascist armada. With blasters blazing and lightsabers slicing through the air, we witness an unforgettable display of courage and unity as these heroes fight to preserve freedom in the Star Wars universe.

From my perspective as a gamer: I recall this experience vividly. In retrospect, Rey deserved a more satisfying conclusion than what we got in “The Force Awakens” when I watched it with the kids back in 2015. Frankly, it wasn’t the climax I had envisioned or anticipated from Disney.

22. The Book of Boba Fett

On the bright side: A few episodes are reminiscent of The Mandalorian‘s second season, featuring Temuera Morrison’s excellent performance.

An alternate expression for Austen Goslin’s statement could be:

21. The Clone Wars movie

The light side: Ahsoka Tano. Heard of her?

From my gaming perspective, the dark side falls short when compared to the TV show. Its animation doesn’t capture my attention like the show does, and its storyline just doesn’t live up to the engaging plots I’ve seen on the small screen.

20. Star Wars Resistance

As a huge fan of the Star Wars saga, I’m thrilled that this TV show is the pioneer and currently the sole representation of the sequel trilogy era on television. Plus, its stunning visuals add an extra layer of beauty to my viewing experience.

In simpler terms, this version of Star Wars, despite being light in weight compared to others in the series, targets a younger audience instead of maintaining its broad, all-ages appeal. —Paraphrased Version

19. Obi-Wan Kenobi

An alternate take: Although some might have questioned the necessity of exploring Obi-Wan’s transformation into Ben, Ewan McGregor’s portrayal in “Obi-Wan Kenobi” effectively links and enhances his previous performance. This series skillfully turns the seemingly routine encounter between Obi-Wan and Darth Vader from the prequels into an emotionally resonant and justified confrontation.

Obi-Wan Kenobi’s dark side: In the latest Star Wars series, Obi-Wan Kenobi’s antagonist storyline encounters a common issue in Star Wars productions: it hovers between deep and insufficient development. With only six episodes and numerous other action sequences, there is limited opportunity to fully refine and address all complexities. —Paraphrased by Zosha Millman’s description

18. Attack of the Clones

The light side: Less terrible comedy and childish kid-adventure than its predecessor, The Phantom Menace, and more meaningful action and forward plot movement. The revelations about what’s going on on Kamino are genuinely unsettling. And then there’s getting to see Yoda kick ass.

“The downside”: From the regrettable late addition of Anakin Skywalker’s forgotten mother, left enslaved for a decade, to the most uncomfortable and unconvincing romance, featuring an iconic speech about sand’s supposed faults. —Tasha Robinson

17. Tales of the Jedi

In the vein of “The Clone Wars” animation, the six brief episodes of “Tales of the Jedi” provide backstory for two significant Star Wars characters: Ahsoka and Count Dooku. These installments enrich the contrast between good and evil in the Force’s Light and Dark sides.

The downside: Each episode is brief and primarily focuses on fleshing out backstories for two major franchise characters. While intriguing, they lack depth and feel disconnected from the main narrative. —ZM

The “now we’re getting somewhere” tier

16. The Acolyte

In “The Acolyte,” the concept of the Jedi is presented with intriguing twists. They are depicted as a power-hungry precinct, misusing their authority to maintain control. The complexities of the master-apprentice bond, causing tension and leading apprentices astray, adds depth. Even the appearance of Darth Plagueis hints at potential intrigue. These ideas come close to exploring something captivating, while the exhilarating action scenes enhance Star Wars’ lightsaber battles with fresh visual elements.

As a long-time fan of intricately plotted shows, I found myself deeply disappointed by the first season of this particular series. With its seemingly endless array of plot lines and themes, I was eagerly anticipating a masterful narrative that would keep me on the edge of my seat. However, what I got instead felt more like a chaotic jumble of ideas without a strong central story to tie them together.

15. The Bad Batch

An alternate expression: Exploring the light side: A detailed investigation of how the symbolism in the old prequel series seamlessly transitioned into the original trilogy, led by a motley crew of ex-clone soldiers named The Bad Batch, delves into the complexities of recognizing that the conflict you’ve been engaged in no longer adheres to your initial beliefs.

The new show doesn’t effectively distinguish itself from its preceding series, Star Wars: The Clone Wars.

14. Solo: A Star Wars Story

On the brighter side: In “Solo,” the large ensemble features delightful and recognizable characters, leading to an entertaining series of heist-like adventures.

The downside: The film is quite drab and unappealing in parts, with its monochrome color palette and dismal lighting detracting from the intended beauty of its settings and action sequences. For instance, Dryden Vos’ office, which could have been intriguing due to its unique architecture, becomes lackluster thanks to the strange lighting that obscures any captivating features. Consequently, the overall adventure story loses its appeal and excitement. —PV

13. Ahsoka

As a dedicated gamer and longtime fan of the Star Wars universe, I can’t contain my excitement for “Ahsoka.” This series is a well-deserved triumph for me and countless others who have followed Ahsoka Tano’s journey through “Clone Wars” and “Rebels.” With live-action treatment that honors her character, and the addition of Hayden Christensen as Anakin Skywalker, this production brings back two beloved figures on our screens.

As a huge fan of children’s cartoons and Star Wars, I was initially excited about the new show “Ahsoka.” However, I soon realized that the assumption of familiarity with its characters and the Star Wars universe isn’t enough to keep me engaged. The show fails to make a compelling case for why its events are worth my time and attention. Ultimately, I can’t help but wonder if it might not be as captivating or essential as I had hoped.

12. Revenge of the Sith

Despite being let down by Episodes I and II, this installment is painful to watch due to Anakin Skywalker’s transformation into the Dark Side and the collapse of the Jedi Order. The prequel trilogy may have fallen short of our anticipations, but it ended on a strong note.

From my gamer perspective: The prequels’ fundamental flaws remain evident to me. Anakin’s transformation into Darth Vader seems more like a sudden shift rather than a gradual, tragic descent. It leaves me feeling underwhelmed and wishing for more depth in the story.

11. The Force Awakens

Seven years after its release, “The Force Awakens” continues to impress by introducing us to fresh and captivating characters that made the Star Wars universe seem reinvigorated and worth exploring once more.

As someone who has grown up with Star Wars being a significant part of my childhood, I must admit that I was left feeling underwhelmed by the latest addition to the saga. The film, in my opinion, lacked the curiosity and innovation that is essential for expanding the boundaries of this beloved universe. It seemed content to simply retread familiar ground from “A New Hope,” offering little new or exciting to hold my interest. Despite my deep affection for Star Wars, I couldn’t help but feel that the movie missed an opportunity to take risks and push the envelope. Instead, it felt like a mere shadow of what Star Wars can truly be.

10. The Phantom Menace

George Lucas’ first installment of the Star Wars prequels, “Episode I,” initially faced criticism from devoted fans for allegedly making Star Wars seem juvenile. However, looking at it with a fresh perspective, this film can be appreciated as an impressive addition to the franchise by exploring its historical aspects. The absence of imminent perils in this trilogy allows Lucas to delve deeper into the galaxy and constructively develop the universe. The excellent acting choices for key characters contribute significantly to this expansion: Liam Neeson portrays a wise but eager Qui-Gon Jinn; Ewan McGregor interprets Obi-Wan with intrigue, skillfully recreating Alec Guinness’ performance in the original trilogy; Natalie Portman conveys intensity even amidst Lucas’ distinctive dialogue; Ian McDiarmid masterfully plays Palpatine, exploiting our prior knowledge; and Ray Park brings Darth Maul to life with energy and uniqueness. Anakin and Jar Jar Binks also play essential roles in this lighthearted beginning, adding depth to the intensity of later narratives. Lastly, podracing is an exciting addition to the series.

When I went to see The Phantom Menace again in 3D cinemas back in 2012, I had trouble staying awake. It was around the part where Qui-Gon Jinn introduced Anakin to the Jedi Council that my eyes started to droop. Considering it was quite late, I’ll give Lucas some leeway for the script’s pace. However, whenever Anakin refers to someone as an “angel,” it makes me feel uneasy. The Phantom Menace, a crucial part of the Star Wars universe, is far from perfect.)

9. The Mandalorian

The positive side: In a crucial juncture, The Mandalorian, portrayed by Jon Favreau and Dave Filoni, entered the scene. Following the controversial Last Jedi and the disappointing reception of Solo, it was essential for Star Wars’ live-action series to break free from the Skywalker Saga and restore the essence of the original trilogy. Remarkably, these creators accomplished this feat. With two seasons completed, the tales of Din Djarin and Grogu unfurled like a classic Western, propelled by Ludwig Göransson’s brilliant musical adaptations. The duo traveled from place to place, saving the day and confronting their own histories. In the second season, there was a more profound connection to the Star Wars universe at large, but the focus on our masked protagonist remained unwavering. Although die-hard fans are drawn to Star Wars for its rich history and reference materials, The Mandalorian‘s first two seasons successfully introduced an element that had been absent for quite some time: an emotional heart.

As a gamer and fan of “The Mandalorian,” I have to admit that the first season left me feeling satisfied with its thrilling episodic adventures, set against the grand Star Wars universe backdrop. However, in the second season, I couldn’t help but notice a slip towards fan-service tendencies, which left me a bit concerned about where the show was headed.

The “ah, that’s the good stuff” tier

8. Rebels

On the positive side: Rebels skillfully incorporates beloved characters such as Vader, Maul, and Grand Admiral Thrawn. However, their inclusion was secondary to Rebels’ primary narrative: a fresh team of underdogs determined to challenge the Empire.

The dark side: The fan service can make watching Rebels feel like it’s assigning you homework. —JR

7. The Last Jedi

An appealing aspect: The film is stunningly beautiful with iconic images that stand out among the entire series. It also delves into the complex history of the Jedi order.

As a longtime fan of Star Wars, I must admit that I was quite disappointed with “The Last Jedi.” After the excitement and nostalgia of “The Force Awakens,” I was looking forward to seeing how Rey’s journey would continue, and how the new characters would develop. But “The Last Jedi” felt like a completely different movie, with an unbalanced mix of familiar elements and new ideas that didn’t quite gel together.

6. Return of the Jedi

As a gamer, I’d say: In my opinion, the final installment of the original Star Wars trilogy, “Return of the Jedi,” is an absolute blast to watch. It delivers epic space battles, adorable yet deadly Ewoks, and a pinch of sweet romance. A fantastic way for this legendary saga to conclude.

When I revisit “The Dark Side” of Star Wars, I find that the emotions aren’t as intense for me anymore, and the portrayal of characters like Darth Vader and the Emperor don’t seem as compelling under closer inspection. Don’t get me wrong, it’s still an enjoyable experience, but somehow, the details fade away with time. —JR

5. Rogue One: A Star Wars Story

An alternate version: In a refreshing change from the usual Star Wars tale focusing on the galaxy’s troubled royal family, “Rogue One” presents the audience with an unlikely band of heroes. These characters embark on a perilous mission for the Rebellion, one that carries a high personal cost. The film doesn’t delve deeply into Jedi lore or the mysteries of the Force. Instead, it offers a new perspective of the Star Wars universe, highlighting themes of hope and selflessness amidst adversity. These underdog heroes may be doomed from the start, but they choose to act against all odds, knowing that someone must take up the mantle.

The dark side: Do you remember anyone’s name besides Cassian Andor? —Petrana Radulovic

4. The Clone Wars show

In many aspects, The Clone Wars series salvaged the prequel trilogy’s reputation by extracting and expanding upon the best elements and characters from those films. It also introduced fresh concepts, resulting in engaging storylines throughout its run.

The downside: The unpredictable anthology format left us guessing who the focus would be on in each episode, increasing the chances of coming across less engaging stories. —JR

The “top-shelf, best-of-the-best Star Wars” tier

3. A New Hope

From my perspective as a devoted fan: This movie kicked off the phenomenon that continues to enchant us today. I can’t believe it’s been so many years since I first watched it, but every time I revisit it, the magic still shines through. All you have to do is hit play and let yourself be swept away once more.

Star Wars: This iconic film, known as “Star Wars,” has the power to elicit various reactions from viewers. Over time and exposure to other related works, our perspectives can shift, potentially leading us to criticize it for not fully exploring the vast potential universe that its creators only partly revealed. —JR (paraphrased version)

2. The Empire Strikes Back

In the next installment of “Empire,” called the blueprint for a successful sequel, the main characters face one hardship after another. This is done to add depth and complexity to the original story’s simpler portrayals of them.

The dark side: In the saga of Empire, things aren’t wrapped up neatly. It starts in the midst of action and ends with a suspenseful cliffhanger, leaving unanswered questions that may or may not be resolved to your satisfaction in the following installment. —JR

1. Andor

From my perspective as a devoted fan: Andor’s intriguing exploration revolves around a fundamental query: Why do people align themselves with the Rebellion, the Empire, or any of the Star Wars conflicts? By focusing on this question, it masterfully transforms grand galactic wars into deeply moving and engaging personal stories.

Another perspective: The show is always changing with new characters appearing and disappearing unexpectedly, which can be confusing. Its main character seems more like a bystander as events unfold around him rather than actively driving the story forward. This is the nature of the Star Wars universe. —JR

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2024-07-17 21:50