Star Wars - Watch Order: Classic Trilogy

1977 - 19833 Films6h 17m4.9 Average

The original Star Wars trilogy stands as the purest expression of George Lucas's vision and represents the franchise at its creative peak. These three films tell a complete, self-contained story of Luke Skywalker's transformation from farm boy to Jedi Knight and the Rebellion's fight against the evil Galactic Empire.

Watching only the classic trilogy provides the essential Star Wars experience without the complications introduced by later films. This watch order is perfect for those who prefer the original trilogy's superior storytelling, practical effects, and iconic characters like Han Solo, Princess Leia, and Darth Vader in their most compelling appearances.

1
Star Wars poster

Star Wars

19772h 1m5
Director: George Lucas
Cast: Mark Hamill, Harrison Ford, Carrie Fisher, Peter Cushing, Alec Guinness

Princess Leia is captured and held hostage by the evil Imperial forces in their effort to take over the galactic Empire. Venturesome Luke Skywalker and dashing captain Han Solo team together with the loveable robot duo R2-D2 and C-3PO to rescue the beautiful princess and restore peace and justice in the Empire.

AdventureActionScience Fiction
2
The Empire Strikes Back poster

The Empire Strikes Back

19802h 4m5
Director: Irvin Kershner
Cast: Mark Hamill, Harrison Ford, Carrie Fisher, Billy Dee Williams, Anthony Daniels

The epic saga continues as Luke Skywalker, in hopes of defeating the evil Galactic Empire, learns the ways of the Jedi from aging master Yoda. But Darth Vader is more determined than ever to capture Luke. Meanwhile, rebel leader Princess Leia, cocky Han Solo, Chewbacca, and droids C-3PO and R2-D2 are thrown into various stages of capture, betrayal and despair.

AdventureActionScience Fiction
3
Return of the Jedi poster

Return of the Jedi

19832h 12m4.8
Director: Richard Marquand
Cast: Mark Hamill, Harrison Ford, Carrie Fisher, Billy Dee Williams, Anthony Daniels

Luke Skywalker leads a mission to rescue his friend Han Solo from the clutches of Jabba the Hutt, while the Emperor seeks to destroy the Rebellion once and for all with a second dreaded Death Star.

AdventureActionScience Fiction