In preparation for the recent release of Star Wars Episode XIII: The Last Jedi, I watched the all nine Star Wars films (includes Rogue One). I have come up with what I feel to be the ranking of Star Wars films from worst to best. WARNING: Spoilers ahead!
9. Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace (2.5/4) – It seems like 70% of this movie is politics and government. For someone looking to get into the Star Wars mythology, this is probably the worst place to start. The wooden dialogue, subpar acting, and slow plot hinder the film. The pod racing sequence seems to exist only as a “what-would-Nascar-be-like-in-space” diversion. There’s also Jar-Jar Binks, who seems to get more annoying with each subsequent viewing. Jake Lloyd is hard to watch as a young Anakin, as is an inexperienced Natalie Portman as Padmé. However, there are some worthy aspects of the film including stellar set pieces and imagery, and the epic “Duel of the Fates” between Qui-Gon Jinn, Obi-Wan Kenobi, and Darth Maul.
8. Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones (2.5/4) – I rate this film slightly higher than Phantom Menace for several reasons. Though politics will always play their part in Star Wars (why the wars if not a quest for political power or dominion?), this film seems more focused on characters and moving Anakin toward his fate. There are some exciting action sequences and inventive locations. However, there is a problem again here with writing and acting. There are certainly some eye-rolling moments, particularly between Padmé and Anakin as their romance blooms.
7. Star Wars Episode VI: Return of the Jedi (3/4) – I suppose there are some die-hard original trilogy fans who will be disappointed in my placing Return of the Jedi in the bottom three. However, I justify it for a few reasons. First, I have to mention that the Ewoks are not my favorite creatures in this galaxy. I have a hard time enjoying the scenes with them. Second, I dislike the recycled plot point of another Death Star. I wish that the finale of a successful trilogy would have been more inventive than that. (See also the use of Starkiller Base in Force Awakens. Yet, it seems less contrived and different enough.) Third, just because Hayden Christensen is now part of the Force spirits at the end. Just like Darth Vader, however, there is good. The Emperor is deliciously evil. Some great shots and action sequences.
6. Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith (3/4) – I really enjoy this film because it is heart-wrenching and explores the complexity of Anakin’s fall. General Grievous is an exciting first-act villain. We get an epic battle between Yoda and Emperor Palpatine in the senate–one of the best in the film series. Also memorable is the fight between Anakin and Obi-Wan on Mustafar. A view of the creation of one of the most iconic villains of our time is chilling. The Emperor continues to steal every scene he’s in. Not a perfect film; it has its flaws. Yet, it feels like a good payoff after having to sit through Episodes I and II.
5. Rogue One (3.5/4) – I was skeptical of Rogue One after reading about reshoots and other production issues. However, the final product is a stellar film with beautiful cinematography, good acting, and emotional gravitas. The film is truly moving. The entire third act is nearly flawless. K-2SO probably exists only for comedic moments, but he is an improvement over Jar-Jar Binks. Grand Moff Tarkin (the late Peter Cushing) is digitally recreated and plays a significant role, which can be distracting. Honorable mention goes to Michael Giacchino for writing a superb score in such a short amount of time.
4. Star Wars Episode VII: The Force Awakens (3.5/4) – J.J. Abrams does well to follow the ‘Star Wars formula’, so to speak. The film’s plot mirrors that of the original Star Wars: a nobody from a desert planet is suddenly thrust into the rebellion and becomes instrumental in defeating the darkness. We even get Starkiller Base, which is just a bigger and badder Death Star. Yet, the film was very successful in evoking nostalgia for the original trilogy and setting up a new trilogy for a new generation. Beautiful shots abound, powerful new music from John Williams. Overall, an excellent film.
3. Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope (4/4) – The original 1977 film deserves a spot in the top three. We are first introduced to the galaxy far, far away in spectacular fashion. While watching the film, I can feel how new, exciting, and inventive this film was when it was released. There are some great shots and inventive set pieces. It is difficult to create a world rich enough in mythology sufficient enough for a whole string of additional films. A New Hope feels groundbreaking and worth additional viewings.
2. Star Wars Episode V: Empire Strikes Back (4/4) – There’s a reason this film is one of the most beloved and acclaimed Star Wars films. It is a smashing sequel to the original film. Revelations about Darth Vader, the introduction of Yoda, and a great set-up for a finale all add to the film. Empire takes a darker tone, which I feel adds much. The Hoth sequence is iconic. We first get exposed to the Imperial March. It’s an exciting cinematic experience that doesn’t get old.
1. Star Wars Episode VIII: The Last Jedi (4/4) – Amazing. There are multiple moments where the audience just gasps in awe of what Rian Johnson presents us. Some may fundamentally agree with Luke Skywalker’s character arc, but it feels real and human. Beautiful filmmaking. Feels fresh and a bold departure from the Star Wars formula. See my full review for more.
Perhaps I am still feeling the hype and exhilaration of The Last Jedi, so it may fall down the list over time. Also, I may find that I want to revise my list as I watch the films again. This is not meant to be a static or definitive list. Just my feelings as I finish my recent Star Wars binge.
Opera Luminis 