When “Star Wars” was first released in 1977, not many would’ve thought that nearly a half century later, the franchise would still be one of the biggest names in the movie industry. Like most franchises, some movies are definitely better than others. Here is my list of the top five “Star Wars” movies of all time: (Spoiler Alert)

5. Episode IX – The Rise of Skywalker

It is no secret that a lot of “Star Wars” fans (including physics and calculus teacher Michael Williams) were disappointed by the most recent trilogy that was produced by Disney. However, after intense research I have concluded that Episode IX deserves to be in the top five films. This movie does a solid job of tying the whole series together and ultimately ending the saga. The return of fan favorite Sith Lord, Darth Sidious, also added to the excitement of the film. Lastly, in the final scene when Rey was asked what her name was, and she said, “Rey Skywalker,” it gave me, as well as many other “Star Wars” fans, chills.

4. Episode IX – A New Hope

This OG (original) film is definitely a top-five lock. When it was first released in 1977, the sci-fi film quickly took the world by storm, and won six oscars. This film introduced iconic characters such as Luke Skywalker, Darth Vader, Han Solo, Princess Leia, etc. I could watch this movie a hundred times and still stand up and clap when the rebels blow up the Death Star. Without this movie, the “Star Wars” franchise certainly wouldn’t be as big as it is today. That is why this was an extremely easy movie to rank in the top five.

3. Episode VI: Return of the Jedi

This movie definitely has the best opening scene of all time, when Luke saves Han Solo from Jabba the Hutt on Tatooine in an action packed sequence of events. Also, the storyline of Luke Skywalker and his developing relationship with his father, Darth Vader, gives fans something to root for. The trio of Han Solo, Leia and Luke Skywalker destroying the Empire gives a memorable conclusion to the trilogy. However, after careful consideration, the scene where Luke Skywalker kisses his sister on the lips is what ultimately keeps this film from cracking the top two. Although he may not have known that they were related, it is still disturbing. 

2. Episode III: Revenge of the Sith

The downfall of Anakin Skywalker and his turn to the dark side makes for a very entertaining film. Taking place at the end of the Clone Wars, this movie has an emotional storyline that exemplifies the death of Anakin Skywalker, and the birth of Darth Vader. In addition to the storyline, this movie has undoubtedly the best lightsaber duels we have ever seen. The duel featured Anakin Skywalker vs. Obi Wan Kenobi. The two battle it out on the “lava” planet, Mustafar. The special effects, the history and the script made it a scene you will never forget. However, after thorough review, the scene where Ki Adi Mundi says, “come on,” without moving his lips at all keeps this movie from taking the number one spot.

1. Episode IV: The Empire Strikes Back

According to Williams, this movie is “objectively” the best “Star Wars” movie of all time, and I actually agree with him. The film introduces us fans to characters like Yoda, Boba Fett and many others. The film also deepens our understanding of the Force, while “A New Hope” just kind of introduced it. Not to mention, the storyline of Luke Skywalker facing his fears and training to become a Jedi, made a lot of fans hopeful for the next movie. Also, quite possibly the most quoted “Star Wars” movie line was said in this movie, when Darth Vader said, “I am your father,” to Luke Skywalker. For this iconic scene and many others, this movie takes the number one spot.