How many Star Wars movies are there?

Last Modified Apr 17, 2023 07:37 GMT
How many Star Wars movies are there?
Source: Star Wars’ Facebook


There are a total of 11 Star Wars movies.


Star Wars is a space opera franchise created by George Lucas that follows the epic adventures of various characters in a galaxy far, far away. The series is set in a fictional universe filled with diverse alien species, advanced technologies, and mystical powers such as the Force.


The main story revolves around the conflict between the Jedi, a group of skilled warriors who use the Force for good, and the Sith, their dark counterparts who seek to control the galaxy. Along the way, the series explores themes of love, friendship, loyalty, redemption, and the struggle between good and evil, all while featuring iconic characters, thrilling action sequences, and imaginative world-building.


Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope (1977)


Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope (1977)
Source: Star Wars


"Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope" is the first movie in the original Star Wars trilogy and introduces viewers to the galaxy far, far away. The story follows a young farm boy named Luke Skywalker, who dreams of adventure beyond his mundane life on the desert planet of Tatooine. When Luke comes into possession of two droids, R2-D2 and C-3PO, he discovers a message from a princess named Leia Organa, who is in desperate need of help from the rebellion against the evil Empire.


Along with the help of a smuggler named Han Solo and his loyal co-pilot Chewbacca, Luke sets out to rescue Leia and defeat the Empire's deadly weapon, the Death Star. The movie is a classic hero's journey tale, with Luke discovering his own abilities in the Force and learning from the wise Jedi Knight Obi-Wan Kenobi.


Along the way, the group faces a variety of challenges and engages in thrilling space battles, culminating in a climactic showdown between the rebels and the Empire. "Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope" was a groundbreaking film that revolutionized the science fiction genre and became a cultural phenomenon, inspiring a franchise that continues to capture the imaginations of fans around the world.


Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back (1980)


Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back (1980)
Source: Star Wars


"Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back" is the second movie in the original Star Wars trilogy and picks up where the first film left off. The story follows Luke Skywalker as he trains to become a Jedi with the guidance of Jedi Master Yoda, while the rest of the rebellion continues to fight against the evil Empire.


Meanwhile, Darth Vader is relentlessly pursuing Luke in order to turn him to the dark side of the Force. Han Solo and Princess Leia also continue to play important roles, with their blossoming romance facing new challenges in the face of the Empire's relentless pursuit. The movie is darker and more complex than its predecessor, exploring themes of redemption, sacrifice, and the nature of good and evil.


It also features stunning visual effects and thrilling action sequences, including a climactic battle on the ice planet of Hoth and an iconic lightsaber duel between Luke and Vader. "Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back" is widely considered to be one of the greatest sequels of all time and a classic in the science fiction genre, continuing the epic story of the Star Wars saga and setting the stage for the epic conclusion in the final film of the original trilogy.


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


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


"Star Wars Episode VI: Return of the Jedi" is the third and final movie in the original Star Wars trilogy. The story follows Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, and Han Solo as they lead the rebellion in a final showdown against the Empire. Meanwhile, Darth Vader continues to serve his master, the Emperor, as they plot to crush the rebellion once and for all.


Luke must confront his own demons and face Vader in a climactic battle that will determine the fate of the galaxy. The movie features memorable new characters, including the adorable Ewoks and the powerful and enigmatic Jabba the Hutt, and brings the story of the original trilogy to a satisfying and emotional conclusion.


"Star Wars Episode VI: Return of the Jedi" is a beloved classic that continues to inspire fans with its themes of redemption, friendship, and the power of the Force, and set the stage for the continuing story of the Star Wars saga in the years and decades to come.


Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace (1999)


Source: Star Wars

In "Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace," the Trade Federation blockades Naboo in protest of recent legislation, but the Jedi Qui-Gon Jinn and Obi-Wan Kenobi are sent to negotiate with the Federation's Viceroy. After escaping an attempted assassination, they flee to Naboo and join forces with the Gungan outcast, Jar Jar Binks, to fight back against the invasion.


Along the way, they meet a young slave named Anakin Skywalker, whom Qui-Gon believes is the prophesied "Chosen One." The group travels to Coruscant to plead Naboo's case to the Galactic Senate, but the Jedi Council refuses to train Anakin. Qui-Gon vows to take Anakin as his apprentice and joins the battle on Naboo, where he is killed by Darth Maul. The Naboo ultimately defeat the Trade Federation, and Anakin is taken under Obi-Wan's wing, setting the stage for the rest of the prequel trilogy.


The movie introduces new characters, such as the wise and powerful Jedi Master Yoda and the Sith Lord Darth Maul, and features thrilling action sequences, including a podrace on the desert planet of Tatooine and a climactic battle on the planet of Naboo. "Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace" sets the stage for the larger story of the prequel trilogy, exploring themes of prophecy, destiny, and the corrupting influence of power, while also setting up the tragic story of Anakin Skywalker and his descent into darkness.


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


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


"Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones" is the second movie in the prequel trilogy, set ten years after the events of "The Phantom Menace". The story follows Jedi Knight Obi-Wan Kenobi as he investigates an assassination attempt on Senator Padmé Amidala, while Padmé and Anakin Skywalker begin to develop a romantic relationship.


Obi-Wan uncovers a secret clone army being created for the Republic, and learns of a Separatist movement led by the charismatic Count Dooku, who has allied himself with the dark side of the Force. The movie features stunning visual effects and exciting action sequences, including a thrilling chase through the streets of Coruscant and a massive battle on the planet Geonosis.


It also delves deeper into the political landscape of the Star Wars universe, as the Republic becomes increasingly divided and tensions rise between the Jedi and the Republic's leaders. "Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones" sets the stage for the epic conclusion of the prequel trilogy, as the Clone Wars erupt and the fate of the galaxy hangs in the balance.


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


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


"Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith" is the third and final movie in the prequel trilogy, set three years after the start of the Clone Wars. The story follows Anakin Skywalker's descent into darkness as he becomes increasingly disillusioned with the Jedi Order and seduced by the dark side of the Force, under the guidance of Darth Sidious.


Meanwhile, Obi-Wan Kenobi faces off against his former friend and apprentice in a dramatic lightsaber duel on the volcanic planet of Mustafar. The movie features some of the most intense and emotional moments in the Star Wars saga, including the Order 66 sequence, where the clone troopers turn on their Jedi leaders, and the tragic fall of Anakin Skywalker, who becomes Darth Vader.


It also sets up the events of the original trilogy, as the Galactic Empire rises from the ashes of the Republic and the Jedi Order is all but destroyed. "Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith" is a dark and powerful conclusion to the prequel trilogy, and a key chapter in the ongoing story of the Star Wars universe.


Star Wars Episode VII: The Force Awakens (2015)


Star Wars Episode VII: The Force Awakens (2015)
Source: Star Wars


"Star Wars Episode VII: The Force Awakens" is the first movie in the sequel trilogy set thirty years after the events of "Return of the Jedi". The story introduces a new cast of characters, including scavenger Rey, ex-Stormtrooper Finn, and Resistance pilot Poe Dameron, as they team up with original trilogy heroes Han Solo and Chewbacca to find the missing Jedi Knight Luke Skywalker and defeat the sinister First Order, led by the mysterious Supreme Leader Snoke and his apprentice, Kylo Ren.


The movie pays homage to the original trilogy while also introducing new elements and expanding the Star Wars universe. It features thrilling action sequences, including a battle on the desert planet of Jakku and a climactic confrontation on the Starkiller Base. "Star Wars Episode VII: The Force Awakens" sets the stage for the ongoing story of the sequel trilogy, exploring themes of legacy, redemption, and the enduring power of the Force.


Rogue One: A Star Wars Story (2016)


Rogue One: A Star Wars Story (2016)
Source: Star Wars


"Rogue One: A Star Wars Story" is a standalone movie set just before the events of "Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope". The story follows a group of rebels, led by Jyn Erso and Cassian Andor, who set out on a dangerous mission to steal the plans for the Death Star, a superweapon capable of destroying entire planets.


Along the way, they encounter a variety of colorful characters, including the droid K-2SO and the blind warrior Chirrut Îmwe, and face off against the ruthless Director Krennic and his Imperial forces. The movie explores the darker side of the Star Wars universe, with a more gritty and realistic tone than the main saga films.


It also features stunning visual effects and thrilling action sequences, including a climactic battle on the planet Scarif. "Rogue One: A Star Wars Story" adds depth and complexity to the original trilogy, shedding light on the sacrifices made by the rebels and the inner workings of the Empire.


Star Wars Episode VIII: The Last Jedi (2017)


Star Wars Episode VIII: The Last Jedi (2017)
Source: Star Wars


"Star Wars Episode VIII: The Last Jedi" picks up immediately after the events of "The Force Awakens" and follows Rey's journey as she seeks to learn the ways of the Force from the legendary Jedi master Luke Skywalker. Meanwhile, the Resistance, led by General Leia Organa, continues to battle the First Order, who are closing in on their location.


The movie also delves deeper into the backstory of Kylo Ren, as he struggles with his conflicting loyalties to both the First Order and his own family legacy. The movie features stunning visuals and innovative action sequences, including an epic space battle and a thrilling showdown on the planet Crait.


It also explores themes of failure, redemption, and the importance of letting go of the past. "Star Wars Episode VIII: The Last Jedi" has been a polarizing film among fans, but it is undoubtedly a bold and ambitious entry in the Star Wars saga, pushing the boundaries of what a Star Wars movie can be.


Solo: A Star Wars Story (2018)


Solo: A Star Wars Story (2018)
Source: Star Wars


"Solo: A Star Wars Story" is a standalone movie that explores the early adventures of Han Solo, one of the most beloved characters from the original trilogy. The story follows Han as a young smuggler, who teams up with a crew of criminals, including his future co-pilot Chewbacca and the suave gambler Lando Calrissian, to pull off a daring heist.


Along the way, Han learns valuable lessons about trust and loyalty, and confronts the ruthless gangster Dryden Vos and his sinister enforcer, Qi'ra. The movie features thrilling action sequences and showcases the iconic Millennium Falcon in its earlier, more rugged form. It also sheds light on Han's backstory, revealing how he became the scrappy, charming rogue that fans know and love.


"Solo: A Star Wars Story" may not have been the box office success that Disney had hoped for, but it remains a fun and entertaining addition to the Star Wars universe, expanding the lore and giving fans a deeper understanding of one of their favorite characters.


Star Wars Episode IX: The Rise of Skywalker (2019)


Star Wars Episode IX: The Rise of Skywalker (2019)
Source: Star Wars


"Star Wars Episode IX: The Rise of Skywalker" is the final movie in the sequel trilogy and concludes the Skywalker saga that began with the original trilogy. The story follows Rey, Finn, and Poe as they embark on a perilous mission to uncover the truth about a mysterious message from the long-dead Emperor Palpatine.


Along the way, they reunite with familiar faces, confront new enemies, and ultimately face off against the First Order in a final battle for the fate of the galaxy. The movie features stunning visual effects, epic action sequences, and a satisfying conclusion to the story arcs of the new characters introduced in the sequel trilogy.


It also brings closure to the stories of the classic characters, including Leia Organa and Luke Skywalker, and pays tribute to the legacy of the Star Wars saga. "Star Wars Episode IX: The Rise of Skywalker" may have divided fans with its fast-paced plot and controversial choices, but it remains a thrilling and emotional ride that brings the Skywalker saga to a powerful and poignant conclusion.

FAQs

Q. What is the order to watch the Star Wars movies?

A. There are several ways to watch the Star Wars movies, depending on your preferences. The most common order is the release order, which goes: Episode IV, V, VI, I, II, III, VII, VIII, IX. However, some fans prefer to watch in chronological order, which goes: Episode I, II, III, Solo, Rogue One, IV, V, VI, VII, VIII, IX.

Q. What are the different trilogies in Star Wars?

A. There are currently three trilogies in the Star Wars franchise: the original trilogy (Episodes IV-VI), the prequel trilogy (Episodes I-III), and the sequel trilogy (Episodes VII-IX).

Q. What is the Force in Star Wars?

A. The Force is an energy field that permeates the Star Wars universe and is wielded by certain characters, such as Jedi and Sith. It is described as having both a light side and a dark side, and can be used for good or evil purposes.