Top 10 Star Wars Movies Ranked from Worst to Best

Little did George Lucas knew in 1977 that his little space opera instalment could open the doors of an unimaginable yet breathtaking fresh universe. The Star Wars franchise does not need any introduction at all. It is one of the most prominent franchises of all time. Every moviegoer’s perspective towards the world of cinema completely changed after watching these space beauties. It helped them in realizing the true meaning of fandom, merchandising, wide-scale promotions, etc.

The original trilogy focused more on the Galactic Empire and its control over the galaxy. On the other hand, the prequel instalments explored the knowledge and usage of the force. Additionally, Lucas integrated some hard-hitting political elements in the form of the Republic-Separatist war. Lastly, we are going to talk about the sequels. The seventh episode gave it a pretty good launch but the last instalment screwed up everything. Furthermore, we also have two more anthology movies based on the Star Wars universe.

Here are the top 10 Star Movies ranked from worst to best!

The Last Jedi

Star Wars Episode VIII: The Last Jedi (2017)

To this day, fans have not forgiven Rian Johnson for the mess he created with the eighth episode. The director tried to do something new and unique as compared to the previous Star Wars entries. But his noble efforts faced a severe backlash from the diehard fans. Its visuals, John Williams’ musical score, action sequences, and performances garnered a positive response. However, it got brutally lamented for the characterizations of Rey and Luke Skywalker. The latter’s portrayal of a pessimistic and grumpy old Jedi was not received well by the fans. Plus, Rey’s parents reveal scene was nothing except pure disappointment.

The Phantom Menace

Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace (1999)

Hailed as the first episode, The Phantom Menace gave a bumpy but action-packed start to the prequels. Lucas’ fresh approach towards the overall project was praised. But his direction received criticism from the fans and the critics. The lightsaber duel scenes, score, improved visuals, and different atmosphere from the original trilogy were positives. But Jake Llyod’s performance, Jar Jar Binks’ extended role, and an overstuffed plot met with the audience’s disapproval.

Solo

Solo: A Star Wars Story (2018)

This Solo origin movie is one of the most expensive Star Wars instalments. And it also turned out to be the first-ever box office bomb in the history of the SW universe. Whenever a director gets changed in the middle of the movie’s production, everything becomes messy. The moment the executives at LucasFilm and Disney handed over this project to Ron Howard from the directional duo of Phil Lord and Christopher Miller, it was game over for this film. It earned nearly $390 million against a humungous budget of $275 million. Furthermore, fans did not accept Alden Ehrenreich as the legendary space smuggler.

Attack of the Clones

Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones (2002)

Improved yet flawed! The second episode of the Skywalker saga did not add anything new to the franchise. But it did look way much better than its predecessor. Praises were directed at its action sequences, visuals, better storyline, and matured characters. The biggest relief came in the form of the reduced screentime of Jar Jar Binks. However, Hayden Christensen’s wooden acting attracted a lot of condemnation. Plus, the dialogues during the love scenes of Anakin and Padme were ridiculed the most.

The Force Awakens

Star Wars Episode VII: The Force Awakens (2015)

At first, the seventh episode seems like a recycled version of The New Hope. But it still provides some amazing characters (they looked amazing that time) and top-notch visuals. John Williams received special praise for bestowing some fresh and memorable themes to the movie. No other Star Wars instalment has been hyped as much as this one! And it did not disappoint the audience. It was so amazing to see the veterans, Harrison Ford and Carrie Fisher, once again. New characters like Rey, Finn, and Kylo Ren (Ben Solo) also impressed the viewers.

Rogue One

Rogue One: A Star Wars Story (2016)

Rogue One opened a brand new chapter in the Star Wars universe with Gareth Edwards at the helm. The moment you see this film opening without the iconic scroll, you know that it is something else. The movie garnered positive reception from the audience. It was particularly praised for its deviation from traditional Star Wars filmmaking. The cast of Felicity Jones, Diego Luna, Ben Mendelsohn, Donnie Yen, Mads Mikkelsen, and others looked in great form. However, its digital recreation of Princess Leia at the end attracted some criticism.

Return of the Jedi

Star Wars Episode VI: Return of the Jedi (1983)

This SW episode might not have touched the heights of its predecessors. But still, it is a worthy and satisfying addition to the original trilogy. The addition of Ewoks in this film is still a pretty debatable topic. But it tops its previous two instalments in terms of improved action and visual effects. Under the controlled direction of Richard Marquand, it gave a perfect ending to Vader’s arc.

Revenge of the Sith

Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith (2005)

The most complete-looking instalment of the prequel trilogy! Yes, the romantic moments between Anakin and Padme still hurt our precious eyes. Its previous two instalments have sustained their fair share of condemnation regarding their childish plot and strange dialogues. However, Revenge of the Sith surprises the viewers with its darker themes and matured characters. Ewan McGregor and Ian McDiarmid won the hearts of millions of fans with their incredible performance. But we cannot say the same for Christensen. Despite consisting of some odd moments, it manages to bestow a rewarding conclusion to the fans.

A New Hope

Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope (1977)

The movie that started it all! This 1977 instalment is regarded as one of the greatest Star Wars entries of all time. George Lucas re-wrote the definition of fantasy and adventure genres with this beauty! It is just a good space opera movie to some people. But for others, it is a symbol of the beginning of a whole new cultural phenomenon. The director expertly shields the heart of the story in the midst of impressive visual effects, John Williams’ iconic musical score, and memorable characters.

The Empire Strikes Back

Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back

The Empire Strikes Back served as one of those rare sequels that actually surpassed its original entry in all respects. It was peculiarly applauded for exploring new themes and displaying better characterizations as compared to the first film. More than 40 years have passed since its release. Still, the highly evocative moment between Darth Vader and Luke Skywalker in the climax takes our breath away. It also set a perfect path for its future instalment (Return of the Jedi) to conclude things properly.