A Complete Look at the Star Wars Movie Universe

A Chronological Timeline

The Star Wars franchise is known for its complex and sprawling storyline, with films released over multiple decades telling different parts of the story. However, the chronological order of the films can be confusing, especially for new fans. To help make sense of it all, here is a chronological timeline of the Star Wars films:

Episode I: The Phantom Menace (1999)

This film introduces us to Anakin Skywalker, a young slave with a strong connection to the Force. He is discovered by Qui-Gon Jinn, a Jedi Master, and taken to the Jedi Temple for training. However, Anakin's destiny is ultimately to become the evil Darth Vader.

Episode II: Attack of the Clones (2002)

Ten years have passed since the events of Episode I, and Anakin is now a young Jedi Knight. He is assigned to protect Senator Padmé Amidala, and the two fall in love. However, their forbidden romance leads to a series of fateful events that will ultimately tear the galaxy apart.

Episode III: Revenge of the Sith (2005)

The Clone Wars have begun, and Anakin is torn between his loyalty to the Jedi Order and his love for Padmé. He eventually turns to the dark side and becomes Darth Vader, the ruthless servant of Emperor Palpatine. The Republic falls, and the Empire is born.

Episode IV: A New Hope (1977)

The original Star Wars film, Episode IV tells the story of Luke Skywalker, a young farmer who joins the Rebel Alliance in their fight against the Galactic Empire. Luke is guided by the wise Jedi Master Obi-Wan Kenobi, and together they face off against the evil Darth Vader.

Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back (1980)

The Empire Strikes Back is widely considered to be the best Star Wars film. It follows Luke as he trains with Yoda, the last surviving Jedi Master, and learns about his true destiny. Meanwhile, Darth Vader reveals a shocking secret that will change Luke's life forever.

Episode VI: Return of the Jedi (1983)

The final film in the original trilogy, Return of the Jedi sees Luke, Han Solo, and Princess Leia leading the Rebel Alliance in a desperate attack on the second Death Star. The fate of the galaxy hangs in the balance, and Luke must confront his father, Darth Vader, one last time.

Episode VII: The Force Awakens (2015)

The Force Awakens is the first film in the sequel trilogy, set 30 years after the events of Return of the Jedi. It follows Rey, a young scavenger who discovers her connection to the Force and is drawn into the conflict between the Resistance and the First Order.

Episode VIII: The Last Jedi (2017)

The Last Jedi picks up where The Force Awakens left off, with Rey continuing her training with Luke Skywalker. She must face her inner darkness and learn to become a true Jedi, while the Resistance and the First Order clash in a desperate battle for the fate of the galaxy.

Episode IX: The Rise of Skywalker (2019)

The Rise of Skywalker is the final film in the sequel trilogy, and it brings the Skywalker saga to a close. Rey, Finn, and Poe Dameron must face the Emperor Palpatine, who has returned from the dead and is determined to rule the galaxy once more.