For fans charting hyperspace routes through the Star Wars galaxy, the question often arises: How Many Star Wars Movies Are There? With a galaxy far, far away expanding across decades and various formats, it’s easy to get lost in the cosmos of content. As we eagerly await Patty Jenkins’ Rogue Squadron and the ever-growing slate of Disney+ Star Wars series like The Mandalorian, Ahsoka, and Andor, now is the perfect time to take a step back and explore the complete cinematic universe.
You might be thinking of the core Skywalker saga or the standalone stories, but the official count is more extensive than you might realize. So, let’s dive into the definitive answer and rank all twelve Star Wars movies released so far, from the “unwanted stepchild” to the absolute best, to guide your next movie marathon.
Decoding the Star Wars Movie Count: It’s More Than You Think
When people ask “how many Star Wars movies are there?”, they often think of the main episodes or perhaps the recent spin-offs. However, the official count includes a film that often gets overlooked. Yes, beyond the nine Skywalker saga episodes (Episodes I-IX) and the two anthology films (Rogue One and Solo), there’s one more cinematic release that completes the dozen: Star Wars: The Clone Wars.
This 2008 animated movie, initially conceived as the opening episodes for the Clone Wars animated series, was unexpectedly released in theaters by George Lucas. While Lucasfilm might prefer to downplay its significance compared to the live-action blockbusters, The Clone Wars movie is undeniably part of the official Star Wars cinematic canon.
Therefore, the answer to how many Star Wars movies are there is twelve. This comprehensive list includes:
- The Skywalker Saga (Episodes I-IX): The core narrative following the Skywalker family saga.
- Anthology Films: Standalone stories expanding the Star Wars universe.
- The Clone Wars Movie: The theatrical animated feature film.
Now that we’ve clarified the count, let’s rank these twelve films, starting with the one often considered the least stellar and working our way up to the crème de la crème of Star Wars cinema.
Ranking All 12 Star Wars Movies: From Stepchild to Masterpiece
Here’s a countdown of all Star Wars movies ranked in reverse order of greatness, offering a guide for your next viewing adventure.
12. Star Wars: The Clone Wars (2008)
This movie, cobbled together from the initial episodes of the Clone Wars TV series, feels exactly like that – a collection of episodes rather than a cohesive film. George Lucas’s decision to release it theatrically remains baffling, and even Lucasfilm seemed less than enthusiastic about promoting it.
While the Clone Wars series eventually evolved into a rich and narratively complex show with impressive animation, the 2008 movie was far from that point. It’s a rough start to what became a beloved part of the Star Wars universe. However, it does serve one purpose: making the prequel trilogy look slightly better in comparison.
How to watch: Star Wars: The Clone Wars is readily available for streaming on Disney+.
11. Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones (2002)
As the middle chapter of the prequel trilogy, Attack of the Clones had the potential to be the strongest. It introduced significant plot developments, including the revelation of the Clone Wars’ true nature and political undertones reflecting the era of the War on Terror.
However, the execution faltered. Lucas’s rushed script, particularly the awkward and unconvincing romance between Anakin and Padmé, is a major weak point. The infamous “I hate sand” line epitomizes the clunky dialogue and lack of chemistry between Hayden Christensen and Natalie Portman. Lucas’s focus on new digital filmmaking technology seemed to overshadow his directorial attention to actors, resulting in a film that feels emotionally distant and stilted.
How to watch: Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones is currently streaming on Disney+.
10. Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace (1999)
The Phantom Menace often bears the brunt of prequel trilogy criticism, but it’s not entirely without merit. The Darth Maul lightsaber duel is a standout action sequence, showcasing a more balletic and dynamic fighting style. Yoda’s explanation of the Dark Side’s origins is also a memorable philosophical moment.
Lucas aimed to incorporate elements from his Flash Gordon inspirations, which is evident in the film’s world-building. While the introduction of midi-chlorians remains a contentious point for many fans, it was a concept rooted in Lucas’s early Star Wars notes. However, missed opportunities abound, particularly with the character of Jar Jar Binks and the portrayal of young Anakin Skywalker.
How to watch: Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace is available for streaming on Disney+.
9. Star Wars: Episode IX – The Rise of Skywalker (2019)
Visually, The Rise of Skywalker is undeniably impressive. It’s packed with stunning set pieces and memorable moments, like Rey’s acrobatic flip over Kylo Ren’s ship. As a spectacle, it delivers.
However, the plot struggles to cohesively conclude the nine-movie saga. The introduction of numerous new characters in the final chapter leaves little room for meaningful development of existing ones. Seemingly reacting to backlash against The Last Jedi, director J.J. Abrams attempted to appease all factions of the fanbase, ultimately satisfying few. Controversial plot points like Rey’s lineage reversal, Palpatine’s resurrection, and the handling of characters like Finn and Rose Tico contribute to a sense of narrative messiness.
How to watch: Star Wars: Episode IX – The Rise of Skywalker is ready to stream on Disney+.
8. Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith (2005)
Revenge of the Sith is widely considered the darkest and strongest of the prequel trilogy. It contains the core elements of a compelling tragedy, charting Anakin Skywalker’s descent to the dark side. The novelization by Matthew Stover is particularly acclaimed for its depth and expanded storytelling.
Unfortunately, Lucas’s last-minute alterations to Anakin’s motivations in the film’s post-production phase weaken the central emotional arc. This pivotal shift feels rushed and somewhat confusing, making the Jedi Order appear even more inept. While the epic lightsaber duel between Anakin and Obi-Wan on Mustafar is a visual highlight, much of the film’s runtime is spent on less engaging political discussions.
How to watch: Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith is currently available on Disney+.
7. Solo: A Star Wars Story (2018)
Despite its lower ranking in this list, Solo is a genuinely enjoyable and well-crafted film. It’s a solid heist movie, even holding the record for the highest-grossing heist film at the box office, and a worthy origin story for Han Solo.
The film shines as an ensemble piece. Alden Ehrenreich delivers a convincing young Han Solo, particularly when paired with Woody Harrelson’s Beckett. Donald Glover’s Lando Calrissian is a highlight, and Phoebe Waller-Bridge’s L3-37 adds a thought-provoking layer with her droid rights advocacy. Minor missteps include the contrived origin of Han’s last name and some excessive CGI in the Kessel Run sequence. However, Lawrence Kasdan and his son Jon’s script is sharp, witty, and keeps the story moving at a brisk pace.
How to watch: Solo: A Star Wars Story is streaming on Disney+.
6. Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens (2015)
The opening hour of The Force Awakens is arguably some of the best Star Wars ever created. Rey’s introduction is masterful in its efficiency, depicting her solitary life on Jakku with impactful visual storytelling. Finn’s storyline as a defecting stormtrooper was a fresh and compelling addition to the Star Wars narrative.
While some criticized The Force Awakens for mirroring A New Hope, the initial act establishes its own identity. However, the second half, particularly with the introduction of Starkiller Base, leans more heavily into familiar Star Wars tropes. Despite feeling somewhat derivative in its latter half, the film remains a strong and engaging story, anchored by Han Solo’s poignant sacrifice.
How to watch: Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens is available for streaming on Disney+.
5. Star Wars: Episode VI – Return of the Jedi (1983)
Return of the Jedi, the conclusion to the original trilogy, faces the challenge of wrapping up a monumental saga. George Lucas’s desire to provide a definitive and happy ending led to some plot contrivances, such as Leia being revealed as Luke’s sister, which felt somewhat forced to some viewers.
Despite these minor flaws, Return of the Jedi successfully delivers a satisfying conclusion to the original trilogy. Darth Vader’s redemption and sacrifice to save Luke is a powerful and resonant moment that redefines Anakin Skywalker’s legacy as a tragic hero. And despite criticisms of the Ewoks, they serve a thematic purpose, demonstrating how a technologically advanced empire can be challenged by seemingly primitive forces.
How to watch: Star Wars: Episode VI – Return of the Jedi is currently streaming on Disney+.
4. Rogue One: A Star Wars Story (2016)
Rogue One, the first standalone Star Wars story, underwent significant re-editing, which may have improved the final battle sequence and the iconic Darth Vader hallway scene. However, the initial character development of Jyn Erso suffered somewhat in the process, making her early scenes feel somewhat disjointed.
Nevertheless, Rogue One tells a profoundly compelling story, perhaps even more so than some of the saga films. It provides a grounded and gritty perspective on the “war” aspect of Star Wars, focusing on the sacrifices of ordinary individuals. The decision to have all the main characters perish is a bold and impactful choice that adds to the film’s lasting resonance.
How to watch: Rogue One: A Star Wars Story is available for streaming on Disney+.
3. Star Wars: Episode VIII – The Last Jedi (2017)
The Last Jedi is arguably the most divisive Star Wars film, but also one of the most daring and innovative. Director Rian Johnson embraced George Lucas’s initial concept of Luke Skywalker as a reclusive hermit and pushed the franchise into new and unexpected directions.
The Last Jedi boldly subverts established tropes and challenges audience expectations. It dismantles tired storylines, such as the Snoke mystery, and allows Rey and Kylo Ren to evolve into complex and morally ambiguous characters. While elements like Canto Bight and the Holdo maneuver sparked debate, they contribute to the film’s overarching themes of heroism and the Force being accessible to all, not just a select few. In time, The Last Jedi is likely to be recognized as a classic that revitalized the franchise for a new era.
How to watch: Star Wars: Episode VIII – The Last Jedi is ready to stream on Disney+.
2. Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope (1977)
The film that started it all, Star Wars (later retitled A New Hope), remains incredibly close to being the best. From a behind-the-scenes perspective, its achievement is unparalleled – George Lucas launched a global phenomenon on a remarkably small budget.
Even today, A New Hope holds up as a thrilling and captivating adventure. However, Lucasfilm’s insistence on including the revised Special Edition Jabba the Hutt scene slightly detracts from its perfection. Despite this minor blemish, the original Star Wars is a cinematic landmark that continues to inspire and entertain.
How to watch: Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope is available for streaming on Disney+.
1. Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back (1980)
Consistently hailed as the best Star Wars movie, The Empire Strikes Back is a near-perfect cinematic achievement. Its visual design, from the icy plains of Hoth to the swampy Dagobah and the sleek Cloud City, is iconic. The introduction of the Imperial March adds another layer of sonic brilliance.
Empire elevates Darth Vader into a truly terrifying and imposing villain. Yoda’s teachings on the Force are both profound and memorable. The story itself is a masterclass in sequel writing, surpassing the original in depth and complexity. The Empire Strikes Back dared to be a darker, more mature film where the villains triumph, a narrative risk that paved the way for future cinematic storytelling. Without Empire, the Star Wars franchise as we know it might not exist today.
How to watch: Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back is currently streaming on Disney+.
This comprehensive ranking should answer your question of how many Star Wars movies are there and guide you through the vast cinematic galaxy far, far away. Whether you agree with this ranking or have your own personal list, the Star Wars movies offer a rich tapestry of stories to explore and enjoy.
