The Most Popular Star Wars Trilogy, Ranked
Voting rules: Choose the trilogy you think is the most popular!
Updated on Apr 27, 2024 06:50
In a galaxy not so far away, fans of the Star Wars series often find themselves in friendly debates about which trilogy stands out as the best. These discussions can spiral into epic conversations, as passionate as the space battles from the movies themselves. Ranking each trilogy helps fans new and old navigate the complexities and enjoy the saga with a sense of community consensus.
By casting a vote on your favorite trilogy, you contribute to a broader understanding of the series' impact and help others find their way through the rich tapestry of narrative and character development that Star Wars offers. This ranking is not just about preference; it's a way to connect with other fans and share the love for a universe that continues to expand and inspire.
What Is the Most Popular Star Wars Trilogy?
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177votes
The Original Trilogy (Episodes IV-VI)
George LucasThis trilogy introduced the iconic characters of Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, and Han Solo, as well as the villainous Darth Vader. It established the Star Wars universe and set the standard for sci-fi films for generations to come.The Original Trilogy (Episodes IV-VI) refers to the first three Star Wars films released between 1977 and 1983. It introduced audiences to the story of Luke Skywalker and his journey to become a Jedi, along with the overarching conflict between the Rebel Alliance and the Galactic Empire.- Release dates: 1977 (Episode IV: A New Hope), 1980 (Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back), 1983 (Episode VI: Return of the Jedi)
- Director: George Lucas (Episode IV), Irvin Kershner (Episode V), Richard Marquand (Episode VI)
- Running time: 121 minutes (Episode IV), 124 minutes (Episode V), 131 minutes (Episode VI)
- Budget: $11 million (Episode IV), $18 million (Episode V), $32.5 million (Episode VI)
- Box office: $775.4 million (Episode IV), $538.4 million (Episode V), $475.1 million (Episode VI)
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238votes
The Prequel Trilogy (Episodes I-III)
George LucasDespite mixed reviews, the Prequel Trilogy provided an in-depth look at the backstory of the Star Wars universe and introduced new memorable characters such as Qui-Gon Jinn, Mace Windu, and Darth Maul.The Prequel Trilogy (Episodes I-III) is a series of three Star Wars films that serve as the prequels to the original trilogy, released between 1999 and 2005. They were directed by George Lucas and produced by Lucasfilm Ltd.- Release Dates: Episode I: The Phantom Menace (1999), Episode II: Attack of the Clones (2002), Episode III: Revenge of the Sith (2005)
- Story Setting: Events take place before the original Star Wars trilogy, exploring the fall of Anakin Skywalker and the rise of the Galactic Empire.
- Main Characters: Anakin Skywalker/Darth Vader, Obi-Wan Kenobi, Padmé Amidala, Qui-Gon Jinn, Yoda
- Introduction of Key Elements: Clone Army, Jedi Council, Sith Lords, Galactic Republic
- Visual Effects: Revolutionary use of CGI and advanced visual effects technology.
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322votes
KAMiKAZOW · Public domainThe Sequel Trilogy brought back beloved characters from the Original Trilogy, including Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, and Han Solo, while introducing new characters such as Rey, Finn, and Kylo Ren. It concluded the Skywalker Saga and introduced new themes and ideas to the Star Wars universe.The Sequel Trilogy (Episodes VII-IX) is the third installment of the Star Wars film saga, consisting of three movies released between 2015 and 2019. It continues the story set many years after the events of the original trilogy, following new characters as they battle the remnants of the Galactic Empire and a new threat known as the First Order.- Release Dates: Episode VII - The Force Awakens (2015), Episode VIII - The Last Jedi (2017), Episode IX - The Rise of Skywalker (2019)
- Director: Episode VII: J.J. Abrams, Episode VIII: Rian Johnson, Episode IX: J.J. Abrams
- Production Companies: Lucasfilm Ltd., Bad Robot Productions
- Budget: Estimated $740 million for the whole trilogy
- Box Office: Over $4.4 billion combined worldwide
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415votesThese were re-releases of the Original Trilogy with updated special effects and added scenes. They were met with mixed reactions from fans, but introduced the films to a new generation of viewers.
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518votes
LucasArt · Public domainThe Clone Wars
George LucasThis animated series takes place between Episodes II and III and follows the adventures of Anakin Skywalker, Obi-Wan Kenobi, and their padawan learners during the Clone Wars. It provided more depth to the Star Wars universe and introduced new characters such as Ahsoka Tano.The Clone Wars is an animated television series set in the Star Wars universe. It takes place between the events of Episode II: Attack of the Clones and Episode III: Revenge of the Sith. The series explores the events of the Clone Wars, a conflict between the Galactic Republic and the Confederacy of Independent Systems. It depicts major battles, political struggles, and the development of key characters in the Star Wars saga.- Genre: Animated/Science Fiction
- Format: Television series
- Release Date: 2008
- Number of Seasons: 7
- Number of Episodes: 133
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614votes
Rogue One: A Star Wars Story
Gareth EdwardsThis standalone film takes place just before the events of Episode IV and follows a group of rebels as they attempt to steal the plans for the Death Star. It provided a different perspective on the Star Wars universe and introduced new characters such as Jyn Erso and Cassian Andor.Rogue One: A Star Wars Story is a standalone film in the Star Wars franchise. It follows a group of rebels as they set out on a dangerous mission to steal the plans for the Death Star, a powerful weapon created by the Galactic Empire. The film is set just before the events of the original Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope.- Release Date: December 16, 2016
- Genre: Science Fiction/Action
- Runtime: 133 minutes
- Production Company: Lucasfilm
- Distributed By: Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures
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713votes
The Mandalorian
Jon FavreauThis live-action series takes place after the events of Episode VI and follows the adventures of a bounty hunter known as "The Mandalorian" as he protects a young child known as "The Child" (or Baby Yoda) from various threats. It provided a new perspective on the Star Wars universe and introduced new characters and lore.The Mandalorian is a popular Star Wars television series set in the Star Wars universe. It follows the journey of a bounty hunter of the same name, as he navigates the outer reaches of the galaxy, far from the authority of the New Republic. The series offers an intriguing blend of space western and epic adventure, filled with action-packed moments and diverse characters.- Genre: Space Western, Sci-Fi
- Setting: Star Wars Universe, Outer Reaches of the Galaxy
- Release Date: November 12, 2019
- Platform: Disney+
- Episodes: 2 seasons, 16 episodes
The Mandalorian in other rankings- Position 1 of 10 in Most popular Disney+ show
- Position 2 of 10 in Most popular Star Wars show
- Position 3 of 10 in Most anticipated series
- Position 5 of 10 in Most popular Skin character
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88votes
Star Wars Rebels
Simon KinbergThis animated series takes place before the events of Episode IV and follows a group of rebels as they fight against the Galactic Empire. It provided more depth to the Star Wars universe and introduced new characters such as Ezra Bridger and Hera Syndulla.Star Wars Rebels is an animated television series set in the Star Wars universe. It takes place between the events of Episode III and Episode IV and follows a group of rebels as they stand up against the tyranny of the Galactic Empire.- Genre: Action, Adventure, Science Fiction
- Network: Disney XD
- First Aired: October 3, 2014
- Last Aired: March 5, 2018
- Number of Seasons: 4
Star Wars Rebels in other rankings- Position 2 of 10 in Most popular Disney XD show
- Position 3 of 10 in Most popular Star Wars show
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98votes
The Ewok Adventure
George LucasThis made-for-TV movie follows the adventures of a group of Ewoks as they attempt to rescue two children from a giant known as Gorax. It may not be as well-known as the other entries on this list, but it introduced the Ewok species to the Star Wars universe and provided a fun adventure for younger viewers.The Ewok Adventure, also known as Caravan of Courage: An Ewok Adventure, is a made-for-television movie that was released in 1984. It is set in the Star Wars universe and follows the story of a family who crash lands on the forest moon of Endor, where they encounter the Ewoks, small bear-like creatures. The family embarks on a journey to find their parents, while the Ewoks help them battle against an evil sorceress who wants to use the family's parents for her own purposes.- Release Year: 1984
- Genre: Adventure, Family, Fantasy
- Director: John Korty
- Runtime: 96 minutes
- Production Company: Lucasfilm Ltd.
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104votesThis infamous TV special aired in 1978 and features the main characters of the Original Trilogy celebrating the fictional holiday of Life Day. It is widely considered to be one of the worst entries in the Star Wars franchise, but has gained a cult following over the years.Star Wars: The Holiday Special is a made-for-TV movie that aired on November 17, 1978. It was a 97-minute variety show featuring characters from the original Star Wars trilogy. The story follows the Wookiee Chewbacca and his family as they celebrate Life Day, a holiday celebrated by Wookiees.
- Release Date: November 17, 1978
- Duration: 97 minutes
- Genre: Variety show, Musical, Science fiction
- Setting: Star Wars universe
- Main Characters: Chewbacca, Han Solo, Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia
Missing your favorite trilogy?
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Ranking factors for popular trilogy
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Box office revenueThe amount of money each trilogy made at the box office can be a good indicator of its popularity.
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Audience receptionThe reception of each trilogy by the audience, as measured by ratings on review sites such as Rotten Tomatoes and IMDb.
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Cultural impactThe impact each trilogy has had on popular culture, whether through merchandise sales, fan communities, or other forms of media.
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Critical receptionThe reception of each trilogy by film critics and the film industry, as reflected in award nominations and wins.
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TimelessnessThe extent to which each trilogy has stood the test of time and continues to be beloved by fans of all ages.
About this ranking
This is a community-based ranking of the most popular Star Wars trilogy. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or Trilogion is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!
Statistics
- 1511 views
- 216 votes
- 10 ranked items
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Voting Rules
A participant may cast an up or down vote for each Trilogion once every 24 hours. The rank of each Trilogion is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.
More information on most popular star wars trilogy
Star Wars is an iconic franchise that has captivated audiences for decades. The original trilogy, consisting of A New Hope, The Empire Strikes Back, and Return of the Jedi, is considered by many to be the foundation of the entire Star Wars universe.
Released between 1977 and 1983, the original trilogy introduced us to beloved characters like Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, and Han Solo, and gave us memorable moments like the destruction of the Death Star and the reveal of Darth Vader as Luke's father.
In 1999, George Lucas launched a prequel trilogy, consisting of The Phantom Menace, Attack of the Clones, and Revenge of the Sith. While the prequels were met with mixed reviews, they still garnered a large following of fans who appreciated the backstory and world-building they provided.
In 2015, a sequel trilogy kicked off with The Force Awakens, followed by The Last Jedi and The Rise of Skywalker. This new trilogy introduced a new generation of characters like Rey, Finn, and Poe, while also bringing back beloved characters from the original trilogy like Luke, Leia, and Han.
But which trilogy is the most popular? This is a question that has been debated by Star Wars fans for years, and one that we aim to answer with our StrawPoll.
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