After the 7 episode of the cinema epic of J. Lucas was released, many had the desire to review the previous parts or even see them for the first time. But for this you need to know the viewing order of Star Wars. However, due to the fact that a clear sequence does not exist, each viewer will have to decide for himself which option is best for him. So, in what order can you watch the Lucas saga?
Star Wars: Viewing Order
The question regarding the order in which films are watched arises because the chronology of events was initially violated. And the Star Wars saga began with episode 4, followed by 5 and 6, forming a trilogy dedicated to the story of Luke Skywalker. And only a few years later came 1 episode of the epic, and after it 2 and 3, folding into a new trilogy, the central character of which was Anakin Skywalker.
Hence the difficulty in choosing a viewing sequence.
The traditional way to watch Star Wars
The traditional order involves watching episodes in the order in which they appeared on the screen. That is, at first the viewer will get acquainted with Luke and Darth Vader, and only then will he learn the story of Luke's father. Well, in conclusion, you need to review episode 7, which was released not so long ago.
Many people believe that this is the correct way to view Star Wars.
"Episode 4: A New Hope"
The film was released in 1977. It was originally planned that he would become the first part of the saga. But gradually, the Star Wars universe grew so large that it became clear that there would be 6 films, not three, as originally planned.
The plot is as follows: events unfold after 19 years since the end of the film "Star Wars. Episode III: Revenge of the Sith. " In the Galaxy, there is a Civil War against the Empire. The rebels become aware of the secret weapon of the enemy - the Death Star. She is able to destroy an entire planet.
Princess Leia, secretly helping the rebels, is held hostage by Darth Vader. Miraculously, she manages to convey a request for help with her droids, who accidentally find themselves at the farmers' son, Luke Skywalker.
The leading role was chosen by Mark Hamill, Princess Leu was played by Carrie Fisher, and the role of smuggler Han Solo went to Harrison Ford.
"Episode 5: The Empire Strikes Back"
We continue to review the viewing order of Star Wars. The next part was released in 1980. The film was mixed by critics, although over time it was this episode that was recognized as the best.
Three years have passed since the end of the previous episode. The rebel base was destroyed, and they had to seek refuge on the snowy planet Hoth. However, the persecution of the Imperials did not stop, moreover, they were led by Darth Vader himself. Luke Skywalker, who joined the rebels, hears Obi-Wan Kenobi's voice while on duty. The teacher asks the Jedi to fly to Dagoba, a distant planet. After some time, the Empire finds a new rebel base.
"Episode 6: The Return of the Jedi"
The final part of this trilogy, released in 1983. The plot resumes one year after episode 5. The civil war continues. Darth Sidious, the lord of the Sith, is building a new Death Star. Supervision of the work is carried out personally by Darth Vader.
This episode marks the end of Luke Skywalker's story and the completion of all six episodes, including the Darth Vader trilogy, which will be shot much later.
"Episode 1: The Phantom Menace"
The order of viewing "Star Wars" sometimes begins with this part. In this film, the viewer meets the young Anakin Skyoker, Obi-Wan Kenobi and Queen Padme Amidala. This is the period when the Republic was still in control in the Galaxy, which was experiencing a crisis due to the growing importance of the Trade Federation. The Jedi Order, led by Master Yoda, is trying to help in the current political situation.
"Episode 2: Attack of the Clones"
In 2002, this part of the Star Wars saga was released. The order of watching movies never excludes this episode, unlike, for example, the first.
10 years have passed since the end of Part 1. The Republic is drawn into the Civil War, provoked by the Sith, Count Dooku. An attempt is made on the life of Senator Padme Amidalu. Miraculously, she manages to survive. Now Padawan Anakin Skywalker and his teacher Obi-Wan Kenobi will guard her.
"Episode 3: Revenge of the Sith"
The end of the story of Anakin Skywalker, which was released in 2005. The Clone War has been going on for three years now. The republic is fighting the armies of the drones of Count Dooku, the Jedi are actively involved in the struggle. Gradually, a thriving galaxy plunges into darkness. The sunset of the republican power is coming.
"Episode 7: The Force Awakens"
The film was released in 2015 and marks the beginning of a new Jedi trilogy. The plot unfolds 30 years after the defeat of Palpatine. Luke Skywalker is gone. He is sought by the First Order, the successors of the Empire. At the same time, they are fighting a war with the Rebel Alliance, which is led by Leia Organa.
Alternatives
So, in what order should you watch Star Wars? If you do not want to watch them in the order of birth, there are two more options.
The first is according to the chronology of the Star Wars universe, that is, start with episode 1 and end with 7th. That is, first you will find out why the Republic fell and how it happened. And also you will understand what exactly inclined Anakin Skywalker to the dark side, making Darth Vader. Then, already knowing the reasons for what is happening, you will become a witness to the rebels' struggle with the Empire, and also trace the path of becoming Luke Skyoker and see Darth Vader returning to the bright side. In conclusion, again there is episode 7, which is the beginning of a new trilogy on the Star Wars universe.
The second way. It was invented by fans of the epic. It is good for those who once already saw all the films of the saga and decided to review them. The viewing order is as follows: first 4 and 5 episodes are reviewed, the viewer gets acquainted with Luke, Obi-Wan and other characters, finds out the secret of Skywalker's origin. Then 2 and 3 episodes are watched, which makes it possible to get acquainted with the story of Darth Vader. At the end look 6 and 7 parts. Such a sequence completely excludes the viewing of the first episode, since it is believed that it does not significantly affect the plot of the entire saga.