There are currently 12 theatrical Star Wars movies that comprise the official, canonical saga. This includes the Skywalker Saga (Episodes I-IX), as well as standalone stories that expand the Star Wars universe.
The Skywalker Saga: The Heart of the Galaxy
The core of the Star Wars cinematic experience lies in the Skywalker Saga, the nine-episode arc that chronicles the rise and fall of the Skywalker family and their impact on the galaxy far, far away.
Episodes I-III: The Prequel Trilogy
These films, released between 1999 and 2005, delve into the backstory of Darth Vader, revealing Anakin Skywalker’s journey from a gifted young Jedi to the dreaded Sith Lord. The films are:
- Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace (1999)
- Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones (2002)
- Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith (2005)
Episodes IV-VI: The Original Trilogy
These are the films that started it all, introducing the world to Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, Han Solo, and the epic struggle between the Rebel Alliance and the Galactic Empire. The films are:
- Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope (1977)
- Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back (1980)
- Star Wars: Episode VI – Return of the Jedi (1983)
Episodes VII-IX: The Sequel Trilogy
Released between 2015 and 2019, these films continue the Skywalker Saga, focusing on a new generation of heroes, including Rey, Finn, and Poe Dameron, as they face the remnants of the Empire and the rise of the First Order. The films are:
- Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens (2015)
- Star Wars: Episode VIII – The Last Jedi (2017)
- Star Wars: Episode IX – The Rise of Skywalker (2019)
Standalone Stories: Expanding the Universe
Beyond the Skywalker Saga, several standalone Star Wars movies explore different corners of the galaxy, offering unique perspectives and characters.
Rogue One: A Star Wars Story (2016)
Rogue One is a prequel that tells the story of the rebels who stole the plans to the Death Star, setting the stage for the events of A New Hope. It’s celebrated for its darker tone and war-movie aesthetics.
Solo: A Star Wars Story (2018)
Solo delves into the early adventures of Han Solo, exploring his origins as a smuggler and his first encounters with Chewbacca and Lando Calrissian.
The Future of Star Wars Movies
While the Skywalker Saga has concluded, the Star Wars cinematic universe is far from over. Lucasfilm is actively developing new Star Wars movies, exploring different eras and characters within the expansive galaxy. Stay tuned for future announcements!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Star Wars Movies
This section addresses some of the most common questions regarding the Star Wars film franchise.
FAQ 1: What is the “correct” viewing order for the Star Wars movies?
There’s no single “correct” viewing order, but common approaches include:
- Release Order (IV, V, VI, I, II, III, VII, VIII, IX, Rogue One, Solo): This preserves the original surprises and reveals.
- Chronological Order (I, II, III, Solo, Rogue One, IV, V, VI, VII, VIII, IX): This tells the story in a linear fashion.
- Machete Order (IV, V, II, III, VI, VII, VIII, IX, Rogue One, Solo): This omits The Phantom Menace and presents Anakin’s backstory as a flashback after The Empire Strikes Back.
FAQ 2: Are the Ewok movies considered canon?
No. The Ewok Adventure and Ewoks: The Battle for Endor (both made for TV movies) are generally not considered part of the official Star Wars canon. They are considered Legends material.
FAQ 3: Will there be a Star Wars: Episode X?
As of now, there are no confirmed plans for Star Wars: Episode X. Lucasfilm is focusing on developing standalone movies and expanding the universe in different directions.
FAQ 4: What is the difference between “canon” and “Legends” Star Wars material?
“Canon” refers to the official, interconnected storyline established by Lucasfilm. “Legends” (formerly known as the Expanded Universe) encompasses stories and characters that are not considered part of the official timeline. These were stories published before Disney bought Lucasfilm.
FAQ 5: Which Star Wars movie made the most money?
- Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens (2015) is the highest-grossing Star Wars movie of all time, earning over $2 billion worldwide.
FAQ 6: Are all the Star Wars movies directed by George Lucas?
No. George Lucas directed Episodes I, II, III, IV, and VI. Irvin Kershner directed Episode V, and J.J. Abrams directed Episodes VII and IX. Rian Johnson directed Episode VIII. Gareth Edwards directed Rogue One, and Ron Howard directed Solo.
FAQ 7: Where can I watch all the Star Wars movies?
All Star Wars movies are currently available for streaming on Disney+.
FAQ 8: Is the Star Wars Holiday Special considered canon?
No. The Star Wars Holiday Special (1978) is widely regarded as a bizarre and non-canonical piece of Star Wars history. George Lucas himself reportedly wishes it never existed.
FAQ 9: What is the Star Wars anthology series?
The term “anthology series” generally refers to the standalone Star Wars movies like Rogue One and Solo, which tell self-contained stories outside the main Skywalker Saga.
FAQ 10: Are there any animated Star Wars movies?
Yes, there is Star Wars: The Clone Wars (2008), which served as a theatrical pilot for the Star Wars: The Clone Wars animated television series.
FAQ 11: What order did George Lucas intend the Star Wars movies to be made in?
George Lucas initially envisioned a larger story, but financial and technological limitations led him to start with Episode IV. He later filled in the gaps with the prequel trilogy.
FAQ 12: What new Star Wars movies are currently in development?
Lucasfilm has announced several new Star Wars movies in development, including projects from Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy, Dave Filoni, and James Mangold. Details about these projects are gradually being revealed. Keep an eye on official Star Wars channels for updates.