Which Star Wars is the First One? A Comprehensive Guide to the Saga

The Star Wars saga is a cinematic marvel that has captured the hearts and imaginations of audiences worldwide. Spanning multiple films, spin-offs, and animated series, the saga is a complex tapestry of interconnected stories that have been delighting fans for decades. But amidst all the action, drama, and epic space battles, one question remains: which Star Wars is the first one? In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the rich history of the Star Wars saga and uncover the answer to this burning question. From the original trilogy to the prequels, spin-offs, and beyond, we will explore the timeline of the Star Wars universe and discover which film started it all. So grab your lightsabers and get ready to embark on a journey through a galaxy far, far away!

The Evolution of the Star Wars Franchise

The Original Trilogy

Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope (1977)

Plot and Characters:
- The film opens with a prologue depicting the creation of the galaxy and the rise of the evil Empire.
- The main character, Luke Skywalker, is introduced as a young farm boy living on the desert planet of Tatooine.
- He meets Obi-Wan Kenobi, a wise old Jedi, who reveals that Luke’s father was a Jedi who was killed by the Empire.
- Together, they join a rogue smuggler named Han Solo and his co-pilot,

The Prequel Trilogy

The Prequel Trilogy, also known as the Star Wars prequels, is a series of films that were released between 1999 and 2005. These films serve as a precursor to the original Star Wars trilogy and provide insight into the events that led up to the rise of the Galactic Empire. The three films in the Prequel Trilogy are Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace (1999), Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones (2002), and Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith (2005).

Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace (1999)

Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace is the first film in the Prequel Trilogy and was released in 1999. The film is set 32 years before the events of the original Star Wars film and follows Jedi Knight Qui-Gon Jinn and his Padawan apprentice Obi-Wan Kenobi as they try to protect Queen Amidala of the planet Naboo from the evil Trade Federation. The film introduces new characters such as Darth Maul, a Sith Lord, and the young Anakin Skywalker, who would later become a key character in the Prequel Trilogy.

Plot and Characters

The film’s plot revolves around a trade dispute between the Trade Federation and the planet Naboo. The Trade Federation has blockaded Naboo, and the two Jedi are sent to negotiate a peaceful resolution. However, their diplomatic mission is sabotaged by the Trade Federation, and they find themselves on the run with the Queen and her retinue. The film introduces new characters such as Darth Maul, a Sith Lord, and the young Anakin Skywalker, who would later become a key character in the Prequel Trilogy.

Themes and Significance

The film explores themes of politics, loyalty, and the importance of the Force. It also introduces new characters and sets the stage for the events of the subsequent films in the Prequel Trilogy. The film’s significance lies in its role as a bridge between the original Star Wars trilogy and the Prequel Trilogy, providing context and background information for the events that unfold in the subsequent films.

Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones (2002)

Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones is the second film in the Prequel Trilogy and was released in 2002. The film is set ten years after the events of The Phantom Menace and follows Anakin Skywalker, now a teenager, as he becomes a Padawan apprentice to Obi-Wan Kenobi. The film also introduces new characters such as Senator Padmé Amidala and the clone troopers, who would play a significant role in the subsequent films in the Prequel Trilogy.

The film’s plot revolves around an attempt on the life of Senator Amidala, which leads to the start of a war between the Republic and the Separatists. Anakin and Obi-Wan are sent to investigate the assassination attempt, and they discover a plot to create a clone army. The film introduces new characters such as Senator Padmé Amidala and the clone troopers, who would play a significant role in the subsequent films in the Prequel Trilogy.

The film explores themes of love, loyalty, and the nature of war. It also introduces new characters and sets the stage for the events of the subsequent films in the Prequel Trilogy. The film’s significance lies in its role as a bridge between the events of The Phantom Menace and the subsequent films in the Prequel Trilogy, providing context and background information for the events that unfold in the subsequent films.

Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith (2005)

Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith is the third and final film in the Prequel Trilogy and was released in 2005. The film is set three years after the start of the

The Sequel Trilogy

The Sequel Trilogy is a series of three films that were released between 2015 and 2019, set 30 years after the events of the original Star Wars trilogy. These films follow the adventures of a new generation of heroes as they confront the remnants of the Empire and the emergence of a new threat to the galaxy.

Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens (2015)

Plot and Characters: The Force Awakens follows Rey, a scavenger on the desert planet of Jakku, as she meets BB-8, a droid carrying a map to the location of Luke Skywalker. Along with Finn, a former stormtrooper, and Han Solo and Chewbacca, they embark on a quest to find Luke and confront the First Order, a new threat to the galaxy led by Kylo Ren.
Themes and Significance: The Force Awakens was a return to form for the Star Wars franchise, combining elements of the original trilogy with new characters and stories. It was praised for its homages to the original films while also introducing new characters and expanding the universe.

Star Wars: Episode VIII – The Last Jedi (2017)

Plot and Characters: The Last Jedi picks up where The Force Awakens left off, with Rey seeking out Luke Skywalker to learn the ways of the Force. Meanwhile, the Resistance, led by General Leia Organa, is facing a dire situation as the First Order prepares to annihilate them.
Themes and Significance: The Last Jedi was a critical and commercial success, with praise for its visuals, action sequences, and character development. It also introduced new characters, such as Rose Tico and Vice Admiral Amilyn Holdo, and explored themes of heroism, sacrifice, and the nature of the Force.

Star Wars: Episode IX – The Rise of Skywalker (2019)

Plot and Characters: The Rise of Skywalker concludes the story of the Sequel Trilogy, with Rey, Finn, and Poe Dameron facing off against the resurrected Palpatine, who seeks to destroy the Resistance and rule the galaxy.
Themes and Significance: The Rise of Skywalker was a controversial film, with fans and critics divided on its plot and character development. It aimed to tie up loose ends from the previous films while introducing new elements, such as the return of old characters and the introduction of new ones. Overall, it was seen as a conclusion to the Sequel Trilogy, with themes of friendship, loyalty, and sacrifice.

The Star Wars Universe: Expanding the Narrative

The Clone Wars

The Clone Wars (2008)

Overview and Impact

The Clone Wars is an animated television series set in the Star Wars universe. It is the first of its kind, and it expands the narrative beyond the original trilogy, providing a deeper look into the Star Wars universe. The series was released in 2008 and was met with positive reviews from fans and critics alike.

Key Characters and Storylines

The Clone Wars features many characters from the prequel trilogy, including Anakin Skywalker, Obi-Wan Kenobi, and Padmé Amidala. The series also introduces new characters, such as Ahsoka Tano, a Jedi Padawan learner under the tutelage of Anakin Skywalker. The series follows the characters as they navigate various storylines, including the Clone Wars themselves, political intrigue, and personal struggles.

The Clone Wars explores themes of loyalty, duty, and sacrifice, as well as the moral complexities of war. The series also delves into the relationships between the characters, particularly the dynamic between Anakin Skywalker and Ahsoka Tano. The Clone Wars has significant implications for the Star Wars universe, as it sets the stage for the events of the prequel trilogy and lays the groundwork for the character development of Anakin Skywalker.

Rebels

Rebels (2014-2018)

Rebels is an animated television series set in the Star Wars universe, taking place between the events of Episode III: Revenge of the Sith and Episode IV: A New Hope. It follows a group of rebels as they fight against the Galactic Empire.
Ezra Bridger: A young orphan who becomes a Jedi apprentice under the guidance of Kanan Jarrus.
Kanan Jarrus: A former Padawan who survived the Jedi Purge and is tasked with teaching Ezra the ways of the Force.
Sabine Wren: A skilled Mandalorian warrior and graffiti artist who joins the rebellion.
Hera Syndulla: A skilled pilot and leader of the rebel cell.
C1-10P (Chopper): A plucky astromech droid with a unique personality.
Rebels explores themes of freedom, trust, and the power of hope in the face of adversity.
The series introduces new characters and expands the Star Wars universe, filling in gaps between the movies.
It also connects with the larger story by showing how the rebels obtained key information about the Death Star.

The Mandalorian

The Mandalorian (2019-Present)

The Mandalorian, a live-action television series set in the Star Wars universe, premiered on Disney+ in 2019. The show has been a critical and commercial success, garnering praise for its visuals, storytelling, and the introduction of new characters. It has also bridged the gap between the sequel trilogy and the spin-off films, expanding the Star Wars narrative in exciting new ways.

The series follows the titular character, “The Mandalorian,” a lone bounty hunter who is tasked with capturing a young child of a mysterious species. Along the way, he encounters a range of characters, including other bounty hunters, remnants of the Empire, and members of the New Republic.

One of the standout characters is “Baby Yoda,” a young member of the same species as the legendary Jedi Master Yoda. His presence has been a driving force behind the show’s popularity, as fans are drawn to his cute and endearing nature.

The Mandalorian explores themes of camaraderie, loyalty, and redemption, as the titular character and his allies navigate the dangerous galaxy. The show also delves into the Mandalorian culture, highlighting their unique armor and code of honor.

Furthermore, the series has expanded the Star Wars universe by introducing new planets, species, and factions. This has helped to flesh out the galaxy and create a more immersive experience for fans.

In summary, The Mandalorian has been a vital addition to the Star Wars franchise, offering a fresh perspective on the galaxy far, far away and expanding the narrative in exciting new ways.

Other Television Series and Movies

Star Wars: The Clone Wars (2008-2013, 2020)

Launched as an animated series to bridge the gap between Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones and Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith.
It was well-received by both fans and critics, garnering several awards and becoming a mainstay of the Star Wars franchise.
Focuses on the events of the Clone Wars, exploring the actions of the Jedi Order, the Clone Troopers, and various supporting characters.
Features prominent characters such as Anakin Skywalker, Obi-Wan Kenobi, Yoda, and Count Dooku.
Delves into the political and moral complexities of the Clone Wars, including the corruption of the Jedi Order and the emergence of the Galactic Empire.
Establishes key events and developments that directly influence the events of the original Star Wars trilogy.

Solo: A Star Wars Story (2018)

A standalone Star Wars film centered on the early years of Han Solo, a fan-favorite character from the original trilogy.
While not as successful as other Star Wars films, it still managed to garner a devoted fan base and expand the universe’s narrative.
Explores the origin story of Han Solo, tracing his journey from a young orphan to a successful smuggler and pilot.
Features familiar characters such as Chewbacca, Lando Calrissian, and the notorious criminal organization Crimson Dawn.
Examines the darker aspects of the Star Wars universe, delving into the criminal underworld and the corrupting influence of power.
Offers a fresh perspective on beloved characters and helps to flesh out the rich tapestry of the Star Wars universe.

Rogue One: A Star Wars Story (2016)

A gritty, standalone film that takes place immediately before the events of the original Star Wars film.
It was a critical and commercial success, praised for its darker tone and innovative storytelling.
Follows a group of rebels who embark on a dangerous mission to steal the plans for the Death Star, paving the way for the events of the original film.
Features a diverse cast of characters, including Jyn Erso, Cassian Andor, and the reprogrammed Imperial droid K-2SO.
Delves into the cost of war and the sacrifices made by those who fight for a cause, offering a more nuanced portrayal of the Star Wars universe.
Introduces new perspectives on established characters and expands the scope of the Star Wars narrative, emphasizing the struggle against oppressive regimes.

The Book of Boba Fett (2021)

A spin-off series from The Mandalorian, exploring the exploits of the enigmatic bounty hunter Boba Fett.
The series has garnered positive reviews, with many praising its focus on the Star Wars universe’s criminal underworld.
Follows Boba Fett and his protégé, Fennec Shand, as they navigate the treacherous landscape of Tatooine and beyond.
Features appearances by fan-favorite characters such as Din Djarin, Ahsoka Tano, and the criminal kingpin Jabba the Hutt.
Delves into the seedy underbelly of the Star Wars universe, examining the

Reflecting on the Legacy of Star Wars

The impact of Star Wars on popular culture
- The influence of the original trilogy on science fiction and fantasy genres
- The creation of iconic characters and imagery
- The influence of the prequel trilogy on the franchise and its fan base
The evolution of the Star Wars universe
- The expansion of the narrative through novels, comics, and video games
- The introduction of new characters and storylines
- The impact of the sequel trilogy on the franchise and its future
The ongoing debate over the “first” Star Wars film
- The significance of the original film in the context of the franchise
- The impact of the prequels and sequels on the original film’s legacy
- The different perspectives on which film should be considered the “first” Star Wars movie.

The Future of the Star Wars Franchise

With the conclusion of the Skywalker saga, the future of the Star Wars franchise is ripe with potential. While the franchise will undoubtedly continue to explore the rich history of the galaxy far, far away, it is also poised to introduce new stories, characters, and worlds to captivate audiences for years to come.

One of the most exciting aspects of the future of the Star Wars franchise is the opportunity to explore new eras and time periods. In addition to the already announced series “The Book of Boba Fett,” which takes place after the events of “The Mandalorian,” the franchise is expected to delve into other eras of Star Wars history, such as the Old Republic, the Clone Wars, and the High Republic.

Furthermore, the future of the Star Wars franchise promises to expand its storytelling in new and innovative ways. This includes not only new series and films but also novels, comics, and other forms of media that will further flesh out the galaxy far, far away. Additionally, the franchise will continue to embrace new technologies and techniques to create even more immersive and engaging experiences for fans.

In addition to expanding the narrative, the future of the Star Wars franchise also promises to continue its commitment to inclusivity and representation. The franchise has made strides in recent years by featuring diverse casts and crews, and this trend is likely to continue as the franchise moves forward. With a renewed focus on creating meaningful and impactful stories, the future of the Star Wars franchise is bright and full of possibility.

Final Thoughts on the First Star Wars Movie

As we delve into the expansive Star Wars universe, it’s worth reflecting on the first film that started it all. “A New Hope,” or simply “Star Wars” as it was originally known, was released in 1977 and changed the landscape of science fiction and fantasy films forever.

The impact of “A New Hope” cannot be overstated. It introduced audiences to a world filled with daring heroes, fearsome villains, and groundbreaking special effects. The film’s success spawned a franchise that has continued to grow and evolve for over four decades.

One of the reasons “A New Hope” was so successful was its ability to blend action, adventure, and epic storytelling. The film’s protagonist, Luke Skywalker, is a relatable and likable hero who embarks on a journey to save the galaxy from the evil Empire. Along the way, he meets a diverse cast of characters, including the wise Jedi Master Obi-Wan Kenobi, the rogue smuggler Han Solo, and the powerful Princess Leia.

The film’s groundbreaking special effects also played a significant role in its success. The iconic space battles, featuring X-Wing fighters and Imperial TIE fighters, have become synonymous with the Star Wars franchise. The use of practical effects and models, combined with cutting-edge visual effects, created a world that felt both real and fantastical.

In conclusion, “A New Hope” is a landmark film that set the stage for the entire Star Wars saga. Its blend of compelling characters, thrilling action, and groundbreaking effects have made it a timeless classic that continues to inspire new generations of fans.

FAQs

1. What is the first Star Wars movie?

The first Star Wars movie is actually a film called “Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope,” which was released in 1977. It is also known as simply “Star Wars” or “Episode IV.” This movie is the beginning of the original Star Wars trilogy, which includes “A New Hope,” “The Empire Strikes Back,” and “Return of the Jedi.”

2. When was the first Star Wars movie released?

The first Star Wars movie, “Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope,” was released in 1977. It was directed by George Lucas and starred Mark Hamill, Harrison Ford, and Carrie Fisher. The movie was a huge success and spawned a franchise that has continued to this day.

3. Who directed the first Star Wars movie?

The first Star Wars movie, “Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope,” was directed by George Lucas. Lucas is a filmmaker who is known for his work on the Star Wars franchise, as well as other popular movies such as “Indiana Jones” and “Terminator.” He is also the creator of the Star Wars universe and wrote the screenplays for the first three movies in the series.

4. Who are the main characters in the first Star Wars movie?

The main characters in the first Star Wars movie are Luke Skywalker, played by Mark Hamill, Han Solo, played by Harrison Ford, and Princess Leia Organa, played by Carrie Fisher. These characters are all members of the Rebel Alliance, a group of individuals who are fighting against the evil Galactic Empire.

5. What is the plot of the first Star Wars movie?

The plot of the first Star Wars movie, “Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope,” centers around a young farm boy named Luke Skywalker, who dreams of leaving his desert planet and becoming a pilot. Luke’s dreams become a reality when he encounters a message from a group of droids, which leads him to a broken-down spacecraft. He meets Han Solo, a rogue smuggler, and Chewbacca, his Wookiee co-pilot, and together they help Princess Leia escape from the clutches of the Empire. Along the way, they learn about the Force and the fate of the galaxy.