The Star Wars franchise has captivated fans of a galaxy far, far away since 1977 with its epic storytelling, unforgettable characters, and groundbreaking special effects. Yet, not all films in the saga offer the same level of rewatchability. Certain entries possess a whisper in the Force that draws fans back time and time again. Whether it's the thrill of iconic space and lightsaber battles, the allure of memorable and iconic plot twists, or the nostalgic charm of beloved Jedi, Sith, bounty hunters, and droids, these films keep viewers coming back for more.
From the prequels to the original trilogy to the sequels; from the Skywalker Saga to the anthology films; discussing the rewatchability factor of the Star Wars movies is enough to send even the calmest and most peaceful of Jedi-like fans into hyperspace. But, while only the Sith deal in absolutes, there's a clear hierarchy when it comes to which Star Wars films are the most rewatchable.
10 Attack of the Clones Doesn't Get the Credit It Deserves
Attack of the Clones may be considered the weakest of the prequels by some fans, but it has a number of redeeming qualities that boost its rewatchability. The film’s exploration of the Clone Wars, the development of Anakin Skywalker and Padmé Amidala's relationship, and the thrilling Battle of Geonosis provide countless moments worth revisiting.
The introduction of Jango Fett and the backstory of the clones also add intriguing elements to the saga, while the movie's detailed world-building and connections to the broader Star Wars narrative make it an essential part of any rewatch. And, while cited by some as a point of contention, the political intrigue keeps Attack of the Clones engaging on subsequent viewings.
Star Wars: Episode II - Attack of the Clones
*Availability in US
Not available
Not available
Not available
Ten years after initially meeting, Anakin Skywalker shares a forbidden romance with Padmé Amidala, while Obi-Wan Kenobi discovers a secret clone army crafted for the Jedi.
- Director
- George Lucas
- Release Date
- May 16, 2002
- Studio
- 20th Century Fox
- Cast
- Ewan McGregor , Natalie Portman , Hayden Christensen , Christopher Lee , Samuel L. Jackson , Frank Oz
- Writers
- George Lucas , Jonathan Hales
- Runtime
- 2 hours 22 minutes
- Main Genre
- Sci-Fi
- Production Company
- Lucasfilm, Recce & Production Services, Mestiere Cinema
- Franchise(s)
- Star Wars
9 Solo: A Star Wars Story Was Met With Unfair Criticism
Released just five months after The Last Jedi, Solo: A Star Wars Story provides a fun, lighthearted adventure in the Star Wars Universe, focusing on the origin of beloved smuggler-turned-Rebel Alliance war hero Han Solo. The film’s heist storyline, charismatic performances, and Easter eggs for long-time fans make it an almost essential rewatch.
Alden Ehrenreich’s portrayal of a younger Han captures the character’s roguish charm, while the film’s exploration of Han and Chewbacca's early adventures adds a new dimension to both characters (not to mention Donald Glover's young Land Calrissian). Though it doesn’t reach the heights of other entries and it no doubt faced unfair backlash due to its proximity to the polarizing The Last Jedi, Solo's charm and action-packed scenes make it a solid choice for repeat viewings.
Solo: A Star Wars Story
*Availability in US
- stream
- rent
- buy
Not available
Not available
Not available
Board the Millennium Falcon and journey to a galaxy far, far away in an epic action-adventure that will set the course of one of the Star Wars saga's most unlikely heroes.
- Director
- Ron Howard
- Release Date
- May 25, 2018
- Studio
- Lucasfilm Ltd.
- Cast
- Alden Ehrenreich , Emilia Clarke , Donald Glover , Woody Harrelson , Thandiwe Newton
- Writers
- Jonathan Kasdan , Lawrence Kasdan , George Lucas
- Runtime
- 135 minutes
- Main Genre
- Sci-Fi
8 The Phantom Menace Birthed a New Generation of Star Wars Fans
While The Phantom Menace often receives criticism for its dialogue and pacing, the first entry in the prequel trilogy remains highly rewatchable. The film features the visually stunning and outright exciting podrace sequence, the introduction of Darth Maul, and the epic Duel of the Fates lightsaber battle.
The Phantom Menace's place in the larger Skywalker Saga and nostalgic value for fans who grew up with the prequels further contribute to its rewatchability. Meanwhile, the film’s world-building and introduction of other key characters like Qui-Gon Jinn and young Anakin Skywalker and Obi-Wan Kenobi add increased depth to the Star Wars mythos.
Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace
*Availability in US
- stream
- rent
- buy
Not available
Not available
Not available
Two Jedi escape a hostile blockade to find allies and come across a young boy who may bring balance to the Force, but the long dormant Sith resurface to claim their original glory.
- Director
- George Lucas
- Release Date
- May 19, 1999
- Studio
- 20th Century Fox
- Cast
- Ewan McGregor , Liam Neeson , Natalie Portman , Jake Lloyd , Ian McDiarmid , Pernilla August , Oliver Ford Davies , Ahmed Best
- Runtime
- 136 minutes
- Main Genre
- Sci-Fi
7 The Last Jedi Pushed Star Wars to New Limits
Rian Johnson’s The Last Jedi is one of the most polarizing entries in the entire Star Wars franchise, but its bold choices and subversion of expectations make it an undeniable standout. The film’s exploration of the Force, the development of Rey, Finn, and Poe Dameron, and its visually stunning set pieces — such as the throne room fight and the Battle of Crait — offer plenty of reasons to revisit it.
What's more, The Last Jedi's deeper philosophical questions about heroism and failure invite repeated contemplation. Even years later, the film’s striking visuals and innovative storytelling continue to spark discussion and analysis among fans, albeit not always the most nuanced.
Star Wars: Episode VIII - The Last Jedi
*Availability in US
- stream
- rent
- buy
Not available
Not available
Not available
The Star Wars saga continues as new heroes and galactic legends go on an epic adventure, unlocking mysteries of the Force and shocking revelations of the past.
- Director
- Rian Johnson
- Release Date
- December 15, 2017
- Studio
- Walt Disney Studios
- Cast
- Daisy Ridley , John Boyega , Mark Hamill , Carrie Fisher , Adam Driver , Oscar Isaac , Andy Serkis , Lupita Nyong'o
- Writers
- Rian Johnson , George Lucas
- Runtime
- 152 minutes
- Main Genre
- Sci-Fi
6 Revenge of the Sith Is the Best of the Star Wars Prequel Trilogy
Revenge of the Sith, the conclusion of the prequel trilogy, is often praised for its darker tone and emotional weight, and for good reason. The film chronicles Anakin Skywalker’s tragic fall to the dark side of the Force, culminating in a climactic duel on Mustafar with his former master, Obi-Wan Kenobi.
The combination of dramatic storytelling, stunning visuals, and pivotal moments in the Star Wars lore and Skywalker Saga makes Revenge of the Sith a compelling rewatch. its exploration of betrayal, loss, and the rise of Darth Vader resonates deeply with casual and hardcore Star Wars fans alike, and each viewing reveals new layers to the characters and their journeys, enhancing its rewatchability that much more.
Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith
*Availability in US
- stream
- rent
- buy
Not available
Not available
Not available
Three years into the Clone Wars, Obi-Wan pursues a new threat, while Anakin is lured by Chancellor Palpatine into a sinister plot to rule the galaxy.
- Director
- George Lucas
- Release Date
- May 19, 2005
- Studio
- 20th Century Fox
- Cast
- Hayden Christensen , Natalie Portman , Ewan McGregor , Ian McDiarmid , Samuel L. Jackson , Christopher Lee , Frank Oz
- Writers
- George Lucas , John Ostrander , Jan Duursema
- Runtime
- 140 minutes
- Main Genre
- Sci-Fi
5 The Force Awakens Broke a 10-Year Star Wars Theatrical Movie Hiatus
J.J. Abrams successfully revived the Star Wars franchise under the Disney banner with The Force Awakens, blending new characters with familiar faces in a story that tastefully mirrors A New Hope while introducing fresh elements. The film’s nostalgic appeal, dynamic action sequences, and the intriguing mystery surrounding Rey’s origin and Kylo Ren's motives make it a prime candidate for repeat viewings.
The return of Han Solo, Chewbacca, and Leia also adds an emotional resonance, while the introduction of Kylo Ren, Supreme Leader Snoke, and the First Order injects terrifying new energy into the franchise. Ultimately, it's The Force Awakens' balance of old and new that keeps fans coming back.
Star Wars: Episode VII - The Force Awakens
*Availability in US
- stream
- rent
- buy
Not available
Not available
Not available
As a new threat to the galaxy rises, Rey, a desert scavenger, and Finn, an ex-stormtrooper, must join Han Solo and Chewbacca to search for the one hope of restoring peace.
- Director
- J.J. Abrams
- Release Date
- December 18, 2015
- Studio
- Walt Disney Studios
- Cast
- Daisy Ridley , John Boyega , Oscar Isaac , Domhnall Gleeson , Harrison Ford , Mark Hamill , Carrie Fisher , Adam Driver
- Writers
- Lawrence Kasdan , J.J. Abrams , Michael Arndt
- Runtime
- 138 minutes
- Main Genre
- Sci-Fi
4 Rogue One Gave Fans the Star Wars Spinoff They Never Knew They Needed
Rogue One: A Star Wars Story stands out for its unique perspective within the Star Wars Universe, offering a gritty, war-film take on the Rebel Alliance's struggle against the evil Galactic Empire. Its strong narrative, compelling new characters like Jyn Erso and Cassian Andor, and the exhilarating final act, which seamlessly leads into A New Hope, make it highly rewatchable.
Rogue One's portrayal of sacrifice and heroism, coupled with the unforgettable and horrifying Darth Vader hallway scene, adds layers of depth and excitement. This is all the more impressive considering, on paper, a film about how the Rebels came into possession of the Death Star plans sounds anything but exciting.
Rogue One: A Star Wars Story
*Availability in US
- stream
- rent
- buy
Not available
Not available
Not available
In a time of conflict, a group of unlikely heroes band together on a mission to steal the plans to the Death Star, the Empire's ultimate weapon of destruction.
- Director
- Gareth Edwards
- Release Date
- December 16, 2016
- Studio
- Walt Disney Studios
- Cast
- Diego Luna , Felicity Jones , Ben Mendelsohn , Alan Tudyk , Jiang Wen , Mads Mikkelsen , Donnie Yen , Forest Whitaker
- Writers
- Chris Weitz , Tony Gilroy , John Knoll , Gary Whitta , George Lucas
- Runtime
- 133 minutes
- Main Genre
- Sci-Fi
3 Return of the Jedi Concluded the First Era of Star Wars
Return of the Jedi offers a satisfying conclusion to the original trilogy, packed with high stakes, intense lightsaber and space battles, and the unforgettable redemption of Darth Vader. The blend of action, emotional depth, and the joy-filled victory celebration on Endor make it a fulfilling watch that bears repeating.
The biggest point in Return of the Jedi's favor is the final confrontation between Luke Skywalker, Darth Vader, and Emperor Palpatine, which delivers a powerful emotional punch. And, despite all that thematic weight, the Ewoks, though divisive in some fans' opinions, add a lighthearted element that appeals to all ages.
Star Wars: Episode VI - Return of the Jedi
*Availability in US
- stream
- rent
- buy
Not available
Not available
Not available
After rescuing Han Solo from Jabba the Hutt, the Rebels attempt to destroy the second Death Star, while Luke struggles to help Darth Vader back from the dark side.
- Director
- Richard Marquand
- Release Date
- May 25, 1983
- Studio
- 20th Century Fox
- Cast
- Carrie Fisher , Mark Hamill , Harrison Ford , Peter Mayhew , Billy Dee Williams , David Prowse , Kenny Baker , Frank Oz , Anthony Daniels
- Writers
- George Lucas , Lawrence Kasdan
- Runtime
- 131 minutes
- Main Genre
- Sci-Fi
- Franchise
- Star Wars
2 A New Hope Is the Star Wars Movie That Started It All
The film that launched a cultural phenomenon that's yet to be replicated by any franchise, A New Hope is a truly timeless classic. Its straightforward storytelling, iconic moments and characters, practical effects that still hold up today, and pure nostalgic value make it one of Star Wars fans' most go-to movies.
A New Hope's rewatchability is further driven by its ability to tell a nearly complete story. Looking at it outside of the lens of the larger Star Wars franchise, it works almost as a standalone, making it one of the easiest films in the saga to scratch a quick Star Wars itch.
Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope
*Availability in US
- stream
- rent
- buy
Not available
Not available
Not available
A young farm boy named Luke Skywalker finds himself thrust into an epic battle between the Rebel Alliance and the tyrannical Galactic Empire. After discovering a message hidden within a droid, he joins forces with a wise Jedi Knight, a daring princess, a roguish pilot, and a pair of loyal droids. Together, they undertake a daring mission to destroy the Empire's ultimate weapon, the Death Star, while Luke begins his journey to unlock the powers of the Force.
- Director
- George Lucas
- Release Date
- May 25, 1977
- Cast
- Mark Hamill , Carrie Fisher , Harrison Ford , Alec Guiness , Anthony Daniels , Kenny Baker , Peter Mayhew , James Earl Jones , David Prowse
- Writers
- George Lucas
- Runtime
- 121 minute
- Main Genre
- Sci-Fi
- Production Company
- Lucasfilm, Twentieth Century Fox
1 The Empire Strikes Back Strikes All the Right Notes
Considered by most Star Wars fans to be the absolute film in the franchise, The Empire Strikes Back also remains a favorite when it comes to rewatchability. The film dives deep into the characters fans know and love, presenting one of cinema’s greatest twists that astonishingly never loses its impact.
From the icy battles on Hoth to the dramatic lightsaber duel between Luke Skywalker and Darth Vader, every scene is meticulously crafted for maximum engagement that lends itself perfectly to repeat viewings. The emotional depth, particularly in moments like Han Solo’s capture and Luke’s training with Yoda, adds even more layers to the patina of The Empire Strikes Back for fans to appreciate each and every time they revisit it.
Star Wars: Episode V - The Empire Strikes Back
*Availability in US
Not available
Not available
Not available
After the Rebels are overpowered by the Empire, Luke Skywalker begins his Jedi training with Yoda, while his friends are pursued across the galaxy by Darth Vader and bounty hunter Boba Fett.
- Director
- Irvin Kershner
- Release Date
- June 18, 1980
- Studio
- 20th Century Fox
- Cast
- Mark Hamill , Carrie Fisher , Harrison Ford , James Earl Jones , Peter Mayhew , Anthony Daniels , Billy Dee Williams , David Prowse
- Writers
- Leigh Brackett , Lawrence Kasdan , George Lucas
- Runtime
- 124 minutes
- Main Genre
- Science Fiction
- Franchise
- Star Wars