For newcomers and seasoned fans alike, figuring out the best way to watch Star Wars movies and shows can feel like navigating hyperspace without a targeting computer. Ultimately, it boils down to personal preference, but we’ll explore the different viewing orders to help you decide how to embark on (or revisit) this epic saga.
Deciphering the Viewing Order: Which Path is Right for You?
The Star Wars universe has expanded exponentially since “A New Hope” first graced the silver screen. With prequels, sequels, standalone films, and numerous television series, the sheer volume of content can feel overwhelming. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular viewing orders, each offering a unique experience.
1. Release Order: The Way It Was Meant to Be Seen?
This is the order in which the films were originally released in theaters:
- Episode IV: A New Hope (1977)
- Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back (1980)
- Episode VI: Return of the Jedi (1983)
- Episode I: The Phantom Menace (1999)
- Episode II: Attack of the Clones (2002)
- Episode III: Revenge of the Sith (2005)
- Episode VII: The Force Awakens (2015)
- Rogue One: A Star Wars Story (2016)
- Episode VIII: The Last Jedi (2017)
- Solo: A Star Wars Story (2018)
- Episode IX: The Rise of Skywalker (2019)
Pros: This order preserves the major plot twists of the original trilogy, particularly the revelation of Darth Vader’s true identity. It also allows you to experience the franchise as the creators intended at the time.
Cons: The prequel trilogy’s lower production values and perceived weaker storytelling can be jarring after experiencing the original trilogy. The chronological shift can disrupt the pacing.
2. Chronological Order: A Straightforward Journey Through Time
This order follows the events of the Star Wars universe in chronological order:
- Episode I: The Phantom Menace
- Episode II: Attack of the Clones
- Episode III: Revenge of the Sith
- Solo: A Star Wars Story
- Obi-Wan Kenobi (Series)
- Andor (Series)
- Rebels (Animated Series)
- Rogue One: A Star Wars Story
- Episode IV: A New Hope
- Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back
- Episode VI: Return of the Jedi
- The Mandalorian (Series)
- The Book of Boba Fett (Series)
- Ahsoka (Series)
- Episode VII: The Force Awakens
- Episode VIII: The Last Jedi
- Episode IX: The Rise of Skywalker
Pros: This order provides a clear and linear understanding of the overall narrative, showing the gradual rise and fall of the Republic and the origins of the characters. It makes it easy to track the overarching story.
Cons: Spoilers for later films are evident from the beginning. The impact of some plot points is lessened, especially those in the original trilogy. The uneven quality across the different eras is more noticeable.
3. Machete Order: A Fan-Favorite Alternative
This order is a popular fan-created viewing order designed to maximize emotional impact and minimize disruptions:
- Episode IV: A New Hope
- Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back
- Episode II: Attack of the Clones
- Episode III: Revenge of the Sith
- Episode VI: Return of the Jedi
Pros: This order places the prequels as a flashback filling in the backstory of Anakin Skywalker and his transformation into Darth Vader after the shocking revelation in “The Empire Strikes Back.” Episode I is omitted, as it’s considered less vital to the overall Skywalker saga.
Cons: This order significantly alters the intended narrative flow and ignores significant portions of the Star Wars universe. It also requires viewers to remember details from the original trilogy while watching the prequels. Rogue One and Solo are omitted, which many consider integral parts of the story.
4. Hybrid Order: A Personalized Approach
Ultimately, the best way to watch Star Wars is the way that appeals to you the most. You might choose to combine elements of different orders, perhaps watching the original trilogy first, then the prequels and then incorporating standalone films and series chronologically within those trilogies. Experiment and find what works best!
Star Wars FAQs: Answering Your Burning Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify your Star Wars viewing experience:
FAQ 1: Where Can I Watch Star Wars Movies and Shows?
Most Star Wars movies and shows, including The Mandalorian, Obi-Wan Kenobi, Andor, and Ahsoka, are exclusively available on Disney+. Some films may occasionally be available for rent or purchase on platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, or Google Play Movies.
FAQ 2: Do I Need to Watch Everything to Understand the Main Story?
No, you don’t need to watch everything. The core Skywalker Saga (Episodes I-IX) provides the foundational narrative. However, watching standalone films like Rogue One and series like The Mandalorian enriches the universe and offers valuable context.
FAQ 3: What Order Should I Watch The Clone Wars Animated Series?
The Clone Wars animated series is best viewed in its chronological order, as it was not initially aired in that way. A complete chronological order list is easily found online. The series significantly expands upon the prequel era and provides crucial backstory for Anakin Skywalker and Ahsoka Tano.
FAQ 4: Are the Star Wars Holiday Special and the Ewok Adventures Canon?
The Star Wars Holiday Special is widely considered non-canon and best avoided by all but the most dedicated (or masochistic) fans. The Ewok Adventures (Caravan of Courage: An Ewok Adventure and Ewoks: The Battle for Endor) were once considered canon but are now largely treated as non-canon as well.
FAQ 5: Is there a Star Wars movie or series that is a good starting point for children?
Yes! For younger viewers, The Phantom Menace is generally a good starting point due to its lighter tone and emphasis on childlike wonder. Many also find The Clone Wars animated series accessible for children. Avoid the darker themes of Revenge of the Sith and the more complex narratives of Andor.
FAQ 6: Does Star Wars Legends Content Still Matter?
Star Wars Legends refers to the Expanded Universe that existed before Disney acquired Lucasfilm. While no longer considered official canon, these novels, comics, and games offer a wealth of rich storytelling and character development. Many fans still cherish Legends content and it can be a great supplement to the official canon.
FAQ 7: What is the High Republic Era, and Do I Need to Read Those Books First?
The High Republic Era is a publishing initiative set hundreds of years before the events of the Skywalker Saga. While engaging, these books and comics are entirely separate from the main storyline and not necessary for understanding the films or TV shows.
FAQ 8: How Much Time Will It Take to Watch Everything?
Watching all the canon Star Wars films and television series would likely take over 100 hours. This estimate does not include the Legends content. Be prepared to dedicate a significant amount of time if you plan to consume everything!
FAQ 9: What About The Sequels? Do They Matter?
The sequel trilogy (Episodes VII-IX) are canon and form the conclusion to the Skywalker Saga. Whether you enjoy them or not, they are a part of the overarching narrative and provide closure to the stories of Luke, Leia, and Han. They also introduce new characters like Rey, Finn, and Poe who continue to shape the galaxy.
FAQ 10: Are there any upcoming Star Wars movies or shows I should know about?
Disney+ is the primary venue for all new Star Wars shows. There are currently several announced Star Wars movies in various stages of production. Keep an eye on StarWars.com and major entertainment news outlets for announcements and release dates.
FAQ 11: What is the deal with special editions and changes to the original trilogy?
George Lucas famously made numerous special edition changes to the original trilogy over the years. Some fans appreciate these additions, while others prefer the original theatrical releases. Unfortunately, the original, unaltered versions are not officially available for purchase, leading to fan-created restorations being popular.
FAQ 12: Where Can I Find More Information and Discuss Star Wars with Other Fans?
Numerous online forums, subreddits (like r/StarWars), and fan communities are dedicated to Star Wars. StarWars.com is the official website and a good source for news and information. Participating in these communities can enhance your viewing experience and provide a platform for discussion and debate.
By following this guide and exploring the diverse avenues of Star Wars entertainment, you’ll be well-equipped to forge your own path through the galaxy far, far away. May the Force be with you!