It’s Star Wars day again! One of my co-workers admitted that he had never seen the movies. For shame. At least he was interested in rectifying the situation.

This sparked much discussion about what a ‘correct’ order might be.

If you’ve already seen all the movies a time or two skip ahead. If it’s your FIRST introduction here in 2024 here is my recommendation:

Release Order
Ep. 4 A New Hope
Ep. 5 Empire Strikes back
Ep. 6 Return of the Jedi
Ep. 1 Phantom Menace
Ep. 2 Attack of the Clones
Ep. 3 Revenge of the Sith
Optional
Ep. 7 The Force Awakens
Ep. 8 The Last Jedi
Ep. 9 The Rise of Skywalker

After you’ve had some time to digest. After you’ve watched other movies. After a good cry. When you’re ready to have a new Star Wars experience it’s time for a story order viewing.

Story Order
Ep. 1 Phantom Menace
Ep. 2 Attack of the Clones
Ep. 3 Revenge of the Sith
Ep. 4 A New Hope
Ep. 5 Empire Strikes back
Ep. 6 Return of the Jedi
Optional, but recommended this time
Ep. 7 The Force Awakens
Ep. 8 The Last Jedi
Ep. 9 The Rise of Skywalker

Now if you’re already a Star Wars junkie and you’re just looking for a different experience.

Machete Order
Ep. 4 A New Hope
Optional and discouraged Ep. 1 Phantom Menace
Optional depending on time Ep. 2 Attack of the Clones
Optional depending on time Ep. 3 Revenge of the Sith
Ep. 5 Empire Strikes back
Ep. 6 Return of the Jedi
Ep. 7 The Force Awakens
Ep. 8 The Last Jedi
Ep. 9 The Rise of Skywalker

Alternatively, read this Star Wars Theory and re-watch in whichever order you like.

Of course, if at any point you have the ability to watch the original theatrical cuts you should start over as though you haven’t seen anything.

What order do you like to watch the movies? How would you fit the extended movies and shows in?