The Most Popular Star Wars Movie of All Time, Ranked
Voting rules: Choose the movie you think is the most popular!
Updated on May 6, 2024 06:50
Fans often debate which Star Wars movie stands out as the best, with opinions as diverse as the galaxy far, far away itself. A definitive ranking based on popular vote can provide clarity and perhaps settle some friendly disputes. By participating in the voting process, fans contribute to a collective decision, highlighting their personal favorite while acknowledging the community's preferences.
This process not only assists in determining the most admired installment but also engages the community in a meaningful way. It allows fans to see how their views align with others and to appreciate different perspectives on what makes these films resonate with audiences. As results accumulate, the ranking evolves, offering an up-to-date reflection of the fanbase's sentiments.
What Is the Most Popular Star Wars Movie of All Time?
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177votes
The Empire Strikes Back (1980)
George LucasWidely regarded as the best Star Wars film, "The Empire Strikes Back" is a fan favorite for its darker tone, more complex story, and iconic twist ending.The Empire Strikes Back, released in 1980, is the second installment in the original Star Wars trilogy. It continues the epic space opera set in a galaxy far, far away. The film follows the Rebel Alliance's struggles against the oppressive Galactic Empire, with protagonists Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, and Han Solo facing various challenges and confrontations. The Empire Strikes Back is widely regarded as one of the greatest sequels in cinematic history and has left a significant impact on popular culture.- Release Date: May 21, 1980
- Director: Irvin Kershner
- Screenplay: Leigh Brackett, Lawrence Kasdan
- Runtime: 124 minutes
- Production Company: Lucasfilm Ltd.
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228votes
A New Hope (1977)
George LucasThe original Star Wars film that started it all, "A New Hope" is a classic tale of good vs. evil and introduced audiences to memorable characters like Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, and Han Solo.Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope (1977) is the first installment of the original Star Wars trilogy and is often hailed as one of the most popular and influential sci-fi movies of all time. The film follows the journey of Luke Skywalker, a young farm boy, who joins forces with a group of rebels to stop the evil Galactic Empire and save the galaxy from tyranny and destruction.- Release Date: May 25, 1977
- Director: George Lucas
- Producer: Gary Kurtz, Rick McCallum
- Screenplay: George Lucas
- Music: John Williams
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327votes
Return of the Jedi (1983)
George LucasThe final installment of the original trilogy, "Return of the Jedi" is known for its epic space battles, memorable showdown between Luke and Darth Vader, and the introduction of the lovable Ewoks.Return of the Jedi (1983) is the third installment in the original Star Wars trilogy. It follows the story of Luke Skywalker as he attempts to rescue Han Solo from the clutches of the crime lord Jabba the Hutt, while the Rebel Alliance prepares for a final confrontation with the Galactic Empire. The movie features epic space battles, thrilling lightsaber duels, and the redemption of Darth Vader.- Release Date: May 25, 1983
- Director: Richard Marquand
- Runtime: 131 minutes
- Genre: Science Fiction, Fantasy, Adventure
- Budget: $32.5 million
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425votes
Wiki · Public domainThe Force Awakens (2015)
J.J. AbramsThe first film in the sequel trilogy, "The Force Awakens" was highly anticipated by fans and delivered with a fresh new story, new characters, and the return of beloved favorites like Han Solo and Chewbacca.The Force Awakens (2015) is a highly revered installment in the Star Wars franchise. It serves as the seventh episode in the main saga and continues the story set 30 years after the events of Return of the Jedi. The movie follows new characters like Rey, Finn, and Poe Dameron, as well as beloved returning characters such as Han Solo, Leia Organa, and Luke Skywalker. With its compelling story, impressive visuals, and nostalgic elements, The Force Awakens received widespread acclaim and became a massive box office success.- Producer: Kathleen Kennedy, J.J. Abrams, Bryan Burk
- Release Date: December 18, 2015
- Running Time: 138 minutes
- Genre: Science fiction, Action, Adventure
- Director: J.J. Abrams
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519votes
Rogue One (2016)
Gareth EdwardsA standalone film set just before the events of "A New Hope," "Rogue One" tells the story of the brave rebels who stole the plans for the Death Star. It's praised for its gritty, war film-like tone and thrilling action sequences.Rogue One (2016) is a standalone Star Wars film that is set between the events of Episode III and Episode IV. The movie follows a group of rebel fighters who embark on a mission to steal the plans for the Death Star, the Galactic Empire's ultimate weapon of destruction.- Release Date: December 16, 2016
- Duration: 133 minutes
- Genre: Science Fiction, Action, Adventure
- Director: Gareth Edwards
- Screenplay: Chris Weitz, Tony Gilroy
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614votesA polarizing entry in the series, "The Last Jedi" has its defenders and detractors. However, it's undeniably a bold and visually stunning film that takes risks with the franchise's mythology and characters.The Last Jedi (2017) is an epic space opera film and the eighth installment in the Star Wars saga. It continues the story from the previous film, The Force Awakens (2015), and follows the journey of Rey as she seeks to learn the ways of the Force from Luke Skywalker. Meanwhile, the Resistance, led by General Leia Organa, faces a new threat from the First Order. The movie explores themes of hope, redemption, and the gray nature of the Force.
- Release Date: December 15, 2017
- Running Time: 152 minutes
- Genre: Science Fiction, Fantasy, Adventure
- Production Company: Lucasfilm Ltd.
- Distributor: Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures
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76votes
The Rise of Skywalker (2019)
J.J. AbramsThe final film in the Skywalker saga, "The Rise of Skywalker" attempts to tie up all the loose ends and bring the story to a satisfying conclusion. While some fans felt it was rushed and messy, others appreciated the emotional payoff and epic action scenes.The Rise of Skywalker (2019) is the ninth and final installment in the main Star Wars saga. It continues the story of the Resistance as they face the revived Emperor Palpatine and his Final Order fleet. Rey, Finn, and Poe Dameron lead the charge to uncover ancient secrets, confront their own pasts, and ultimately challenge the dark side of the Force.- Release Date: December 20, 2019
- Director: J.J. Abrams
- Producer: Kathleen Kennedy, J.J. Abrams, Michelle Rejwan
- Screenplay: J.J. Abrams, Chris Terrio
- Genre: Science Fiction, Fantasy, Action
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87votes
Attack of the Clones (2002)
George LucasThe second film in the prequel trilogy, "Attack of the Clones" is often criticized for its clunky dialogue and wooden performances. However, it also features some of the franchise's most memorable action sequences and introduced the fan-favorite character of Jango Fett.Attack of the Clones (2002) is the second installment in the prequel trilogy of the Star Wars franchise. It is directed by George Lucas and is set 10 years after the events of The Phantom Menace. The film follows Anakin Skywalker as he becomes a Jedi Knight and his forbidden romance with Padmé Amidala, while the galaxy teeters on the brink of war.- Release Date: May 16, 2002
- Running Time: 142 minutes
- Budget: $115 million
- Box Office: $649.4 million
- Genre: Science Fiction, Action, Adventure, Fantasy
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912votes
The Phantom Menace (1999)
George LucasThe first film in the prequel trilogy, "The Phantom Menace" was highly anticipated by fans but disappointed many with its convoluted plot and controversial character of Jar Jar Binks. However, it did introduce the iconic villain Darth Maul and features one of the franchise's most thrilling lightsaber duels.The Phantom Menace (1999) is the fourth episode in the Star Wars saga and serves as the first installment in the prequel trilogy. It follows the story of young Anakin Skywalker and his journey to becoming the iconic Sith Lord, Darth Vader. The movie introduces key characters such as Qui-Gon Jinn, Obi-Wan Kenobi, Padmé Amidala, and the villainous Darth Maul. The Phantom Menace explores the political landscape of the galaxy and sets the stage for the conflict between the Jedi and the Sith.- Release Date: May 19, 1999
- Director: George Lucas
- Running Time: 136 minutes
- Producers: Rick McCallum
- Music: John Williams
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105votes
Georges Biard · CC BY-SA 4.0Solo: A Star Wars Story (2018)
Ron HowardAnother standalone film, "Solo" explores the backstory of fan-favorite character Han Solo. While it didn't perform as well at the box office as other Star Wars films, it's still praised for its fun action and charismatic performances by actors Alden Ehrenreich and Donald Glover.Solo: A Star Wars Story (2018) is a science fiction action film set in the Star Wars universe. It serves as a standalone origin story for the iconic Star Wars character, Han Solo. The movie follows a young Han Solo as he embarks on a series of daring adventures involving smugglers, scoundrels, and the notorious Millennium Falcon. Solo delves into the early life of Han Solo, showcasing his friendship with Chewbacca and his first encounters with Lando Calrissian. This film takes place before the events of the original Star Wars trilogy and provides insights into the character development of one of the franchise's most beloved heroes.- Release Date: May 10, 2018
- Director: Ron Howard
- Screenplay: Jonathan Kasdan, Lawrence Kasdan
- Production Company: Lucasfilm Ltd.
- Distributed by: Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures
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Ranking factors for popular movie
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Box office earningsThe amount of money a movie made in theaters can be a strong indicator of its popularity.
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Critical receptionThe level of praise a movie received from film critics can also be a good indicator of its popularity.
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Fan receptionThe opinions of Star Wars fans are also important when determining the popularity of a particular movie.
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Cultural impactThe impact a movie had on popular culture can also be a factor in determining its popularity.
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Memorable momentsIconic scenes or moments that have become iconic and have become a part of popular culture.
About this ranking
This is a community-based ranking of the most popular Star Wars movie of all time. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or Film is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!
Statistics
- 2280 views
- 219 votes
- 10 ranked items
Voting Rules
A participant may cast an up or down vote for each Film once every 24 hours. The rank of each Film is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.
More information on most popular star wars movie of all time
Star Wars is a cultural phenomenon that has captivated audiences of all ages for over four decades. Since the release of the original Star Wars movie in 1977, the franchise has grown to include numerous films, television shows, books, and merchandise. Each new release has been met with excitement and anticipation from fans around the world.
Despite the popularity of the franchise as a whole, there is often debate about which Star Wars movie is the best. Some fans prefer the original trilogy, while others are more partial to the prequels or the newer films. With so many options to choose from, it can be difficult to determine which movie truly stands out as the most beloved by fans.
To settle this debate once and for all, StrawPoll has conducted a survey to determine the most popular Star Wars movie of all time. Thousands of fans from around the world participated in the poll, providing valuable insights into which movie truly reigns supreme among the Star Wars faithful. So without further ado, let's find out which movie came out on top!
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