What Are the Best Decade Rankings?

The Star Wars franchise, which has captivated audiences for nearly five decades, showcases a plethora of stories ranging from iconic films to compelling series. Each decade has contributed uniquely to the galaxy far, far away, making it challenging yet exciting to pinpoint the best project from each era. This article outlines the standout Star Wars stories from the 1970s through the 2020s, highlighting their significance and impact within the franchise.

Last updated: 27 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• The original Star Wars: A New Hope (1977) set the foundation for the franchise.
• The Empire Strikes Back (1980) is often hailed as the best sequel in cinematic history.
• The Phantom Menace (1999) revived interest in the franchise with groundbreaking visuals.
• Revenge of the Sith (2005) concluded the prequel trilogy with significant character arcs.
• Rogue One (2016) introduced a fresh perspective on heroism within the Rebellion.
• Andor (2022-2025) explores darker themes and complex narratives, redefining the series.

The Birth of a Phenomenon: Star Wars (1977)

The journey of the Star Wars saga began with Star Wars: A New Hope in 1977, a groundbreaking film that redefined the sci-fi genre. Created by George Lucas, this film introduced audiences to an expansive universe filled with intriguing characters and epic narratives.

A New Hope not only established the core characters—Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, and Han Solo—but also set the stage for a saga about good versus evil. Its visual effects were revolutionary for the time, making it one of the first true blockbusters in cinema history. The film's successful blend of adventure, humour, and drama captivated audiences, ensuring its place as a cultural landmark.

Without the success of A New Hope, the Star Wars franchise might not have flourished into the extensive universe it is today. Its impact is evident in the many projects that followed, all drawing inspiration from its storytelling and world-building.

The Masterpiece of Sequels: The Empire Strikes Back (1980)

Moving into the 1980s, The Empire Strikes Back emerged as a standout project, widely regarded as the best sequel in cinematic history. Released in 1980, it expanded on the original narrative while introducing deeper character development and darker themes.

This film is notable for its iconic moments, including the thrilling Battle of Hoth and Yoda's training of Luke Skywalker. One of the most memorable plot twists in film history occurs when Darth Vader reveals his true identity to Luke, a revelation that has resonated with audiences for decades.

While Return of the Jedi brought closure to the original trilogy, many fans agree that it was The Empire Strikes Back that truly captured the essence of what made Star Wars special. Its ability to blend action, emotion, and character growth has made it a timeless classic.

A New Era: The Phantom Menace (1999)

The late 1990s marked the return of the Star Wars franchise with the release of The Phantom Menace in 1999. As the first film of the prequel trilogy, it generated immense anticipation and excitement among fans eager to revisit the galaxy.

While the film faced criticism, particularly for its dialogue and pacing, it was undeniably a visual spectacle, showcasing advanced CGI and stunning action sequences. The introduction of characters like Qui-Gon Jinn, Obi-Wan Kenobi, and the formidable Darth Maul added depth to the narrative.

The Phantom Menace also established Anakin Skywalker’s origins, setting the stage for his tragic transformation into Darth Vader. Its iconic duel, paired with John Williams' unforgettable score, remains a significant highlight in the Star Wars canon.

The Tragic Fall: Revenge of the Sith (2005)

As the prequel trilogy reached its climax, Revenge of the Sith (2005) delivered a powerful and poignant conclusion. This film explored Anakin Skywalker’s descent into darkness, showcasing his transformation into Darth Vader and the resulting fallout on the Jedi Order.

Revenge of the Sith is lauded for its emotional depth and dramatic storytelling. The film encapsulates the tragedy of Anakin’s choices, as well as the political machinations that lead to the rise of the Galactic Empire. Its darker tone resonated with audiences, solidifying its position as the best project of the 2000s.

While the prequel trilogy faced mixed reviews, Revenge of the Sith has gained appreciation over the years, particularly for its ambitious narrative and character arcs.

A Unique Perspective: Rogue One: A Star Wars Story (2016)

The 2010s ushered in the Disney era of Star Wars, beginning with the release of Rogue One: A Star Wars Story in 2016. This film took a different approach, focusing on a group of rebels who risked everything to secure the Death Star plans, leading directly into A New Hope.

Rogue One's fresh perspective on heroism, highlighting the bravery of ordinary individuals, set it apart from previous entries. The film's darker tone and more mature themes offered a unique flavour to the franchise, complemented by breathtaking visuals and intense action sequences.

The film also featured one of the most memorable portrayals of Darth Vader, culminating in a thrilling climax that delighted long-time fans. Rogue One’s success led to the development of the critically acclaimed series Andor, further exploring the themes of rebellion and resistance.

A New Dawn: Andor (2022-2025)

As the 2020s progressed, Andor, which premiered in 2022 and concluded in 2025, emerged as a defining story within the Star Wars universe. This live-action series delves into the complex character of Cassian Andor, exploring the moral dilemmas faced by those fighting against an oppressive regime.

With its intricate storytelling and character development, Andor raised the bar for Star Wars narratives. The series showcases the real cost of rebellion, emphasising the sacrifices made by individuals in their fight for freedom. Its mature themes and sophisticated writing set it apart from previous projects, making it a favourite among fans and critics alike.

As anticipation builds for future Star Wars content, Andor stands out as a remarkable achievement, proving that the franchise can continue to evolve and resonate with audiences in new and meaningful ways.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Star Wars

As we move further into the 2020s, the future of the Star Wars franchise looks promising. With multiple projects in development, including new films and series, fans eagerly await the next chapter in this beloved saga. Will any upcoming releases surpass the achievements of Andor or Rogue One? Only time will tell.

Regardless of what lies ahead, the legacy of Star Wars will undoubtedly continue to inspire and engage audiences for generations to come.

FAQs

What is the significance of Star Wars: A New Hope?

Star Wars: A New Hope (1977) is significant as it launched the franchise, introducing key characters and innovative storytelling that reshaped the sci-fi genre.

Why is The Empire Strikes Back considered the best sequel?

The Empire Strikes Back (1980) is considered the best sequel due to its deep character development, iconic twists, and thrilling action sequences that enhanced the original narrative.

What themes are explored in Andor?

Andor explores themes of rebellion, sacrifice, and the moral complexities of fighting against oppression, presenting a darker and more mature narrative within the Star Wars universe.

How did Rogue One impact the Star Wars franchise?

Rogue One introduced a unique perspective on heroism and directly connected to A New Hope, expanding the narrative scope of the Star Wars saga and inspiring the series Andor.

What are the main differences between the prequel and original trilogies?

The prequel trilogy focuses on Anakin Skywalker's rise and fall, while the original trilogy centres on the battle between the Rebel Alliance and the Galactic Empire, showcasing different themes and character arcs.