For all Star Wars enthusiasts, when it comes to the galaxy far, far away, one question seems to linger in the minds of fans everywhere: Which are the best Star Wars films?
It’s a question that sparks countless debates and passionate discussions. And with there being fourteen films from the franchise – it’s not hard to see why. We are going to give it a try. So grab your lightsabers and join us on this galactic journey as we attempt to untangle the enigma of the best Star Wars films.
Our Top Four
Before we dive into the rich tapestry of the Star Wars saga, we must first point out that for many younger fans who’ve been introduced to the franchise through standalone films such as ‘Rogue One’ or any of the sequels, it’s important to have an understanding of the original core trilogy to understand how this decision has been made.
You can test your knowledge of all Star Wars episodes and standalone films by taking PIA’s Star Wars quiz. With fourteen films spanning almost 50 years, no one would take your Jedi Master title from you if you needed to do some quick research from time to time!
Episode VII: The Force Awakens (2015)
Undoubtedly, ‘The Force Awakens’ holds a very special place amongst Star Wars fans. This episode gives nostalgic homage to the original trilogy and introduces compelling characters like Rey, that breathed fresh life into the Star Wars Universe.
Similarly, the heartbreaking emotional significance of Carrie Fisher’s last portrayal of Princess Leia in the franchise evoked a deep emotional response from audiences to make ‘The Force Awakens’ both a bittersweet and poignant experience.
As stated by Culture Slate, this film brought back the essence of the original trilogy while also capturing a fresh perspective of adventure and humor. And that is why we’re kicking off our top four Star Wars films with ‘The Force Awakens.’
Episode III: Revenge Of The Sith (2005)
This will have many of you Star Wars fans conflicted, as opinions on the prequel trilogy vary largely. But, ‘Revenge of the Sith’ stands out as a strong contender for the top four.
In this episode, you see the fall of Anakin Skywalker and his transformation into Darth Vader, exploring the tragic events that shaped the Star Wars universe. Despite a mix of opinions upon its release, this film’s visual effects, intense lightsaber battles, and emotional depth have garnered a significant fan following.
Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back (1980)
‘The Empire Strikes Back’ was widely regarded as one of the best Star Wars films from the franchise by fans due to the darker and more complex tone this episode took in comparison to its previous, as reported on Reddit.
‘The Empire Strikes Back’ explores temptation, betrayal, and the struggle between good and evil. Not only do you see tremendous character development, but also the revelation of shocking family connections and the emotional conflicts Luke and Leia face, leading to iconic moments such as the revelation of Darth Vader’s true identity and Han Solo’s uncertain fate.
Episode IV: A New Hope (1977)
And finally, we’re saving the best till last by finishing with the most classic of the original trilogy – ‘A New Hope.’
The original Star Wars film that started it all holds a special place in the hearts of fans. It introduced us to the galaxy, its characters, and the timeless battle between good and evil. Its adventurous spirit, memorable moments, and groundbreaking storytelling that introduced us to the world of Star Wars make it a fan favorite. Or THE favorite, we should say.
A Galaxy Of Worthy Opponents
In the vast and beloved galaxy of Star Wars films, it becomes abundantly clear that determining the ‘best’ among them is an incredibly subjective matter.
Although the four discussed hold a strong place in our hearts, personal preferences can vary depending on a multitude of factors, such as personal attachment, emotional impact, and the differences in storytelling.
As the films evolve and grow, so do Star Wars fans. May your favorite Star Wars film continue to ignite your imagination and fuel your passion.
