Having just come off of Phantom Menace (obviously a rewatch), I can confidently say that this is the best way to consume Star Wars. That film actually sets up the Star Wars universe really well, hitting all the major points, and it also introduces the Jedi and the Sith masterfully, through the eyes of young Ani. And on top of that, your first major lightsaber battle is FRICKIN DUEL OF THE FATES!!
This is why I would watch in chronological order. You meet Anakin Skywalker and watch his growth up until RotS, when Anakin turns to the Dark Side, where you hear Palpatine say "Henceforth, you shall be known a Darth Vader", and eventually the big fight happens and you see Anakin/Vader in the suit, which carries over into A New Hope.
Something many old school fans forget is that EVERYONE knows the "plot twists" of the OT, where they know Vader is Luke's dad (because everyone keeps saying in Vaders voice "Luke, I am your father") and that Leia and Luke are siblings (since one of the biggest controversies ever was how Luke and Leia made out even though their siblings). Yet if your first viewing starts with the prequels, you're not going to be spoiled by the major events that happen. You don't know who Vader is, you don't know who Anakin and Padme are, you don't even know about Order 66 because you didn't have the OT spoil that for you, so it's a much bigger emotional hit because you weren't prepared for it, weren't prepared to see Anakin's fall, Padme's death, the fall of the Republic and destruction of the Jedi Order.
But still…. A New Hope and Empire Strikes Back work best as introduction movies. If you watch them after the prequels they’re basically delivering exposition about events the audience already knows about.
but at the same time kids who is gonna watch star wars for the first time probaly dont know the about the twist or anything and ot explained the star wars universe more proper and it was easier to understand the prequels start with a lot of things that dont make sense at all at first viewing
@@SDfan2002 heavly aggre and in the orginal trilogy we explored the star wars universe with luke trough all 3 movies. In the phantom menace we explore some with plot points in the star wars universe with anakin but we dont learn the importantthing things that where explained in the ot. And in attack of the clones and revenge of the sith we dont learn anything so the ot is the best to start with
I can’t believe it. You actually convinced me that chronological order is better. My math teacher has never seen Star Wars and she asked me and my friend what order to watch them, and we told her about the chronological order, not release order
I'd argue the OT no longer has twists since everyone knows about them, even people who have never seen star wars before knows that Vader is Luke's dad and Luke and Leia are siblings thanks to a line that basically ruins the major plot twist as well as an argument fans have been having over the whole Leia kissing Luke fiasco.
I showed my gf at the time episodes 1-6+R1 in chrono order with her having very limited prior knowledge and it was a treat to watch the evolution of things through her eyes. Especially her reaction to Episode 3 and everything going to shit. Instead of Luke finding out Vader is his father, the big twist of the series was Anakin becoming Vader.
I want to clarify my position. I think all three prequel movies are bad movies if I’m being unbiased. But I love the era and revenge of the Sith. I can love a movie I don’t think is good, I even find a decent amount to enjoy of attack of the Clones. It’s mostly the phantom menace I find very little to enjoy. But I don’t hate the prequels, I love the story, just not two of the films. I hope that clarified things for you!
Before I saw this video my main reason to start with the originals was to not give anyone a bad first impression of Star Wars by suggesting to watch TPM first (for obvious reasons)
That's actually a very interesting take! I think with what Dave Filoni said recently in regards to EP1, especially the Duel of The Fates, I think the Machete order would not work as it would remove a very important aspect of the story as a whole.
George Lucas put numbers on these films for a reason. To reiterate Rick Woley, isn’t it an even bigger twist to follow our hero for three films only to have him suddenly become the villain? Doesn’t it add extra tension to Luke departing Dagobah, knowing how similar he is to his father (lack of patience, letting concern for his loved once get the better of him) and that he could actually also turn?
This. So much. Like most people on earth know Darth Vader is luke father. You dont need to know franchise to know that line. Just watch the series in chronological. Most people dont know who Anakin is.
I still would recommend someone watch the movies in release order for the many of the same reasons you say chronological order. Nevertheless, I see where you're coming from and great video!
I watched in chronological the first 6 movies with my sister who only knew about I am your father seen like you said and she loved it and because we saw it in chronological order she loved episode 6 the return of the jedi since palpatine got defeted and darth vader became good again she even cried at the end of the movie seeing the party and all the ghosts togehter
I think this also applies to the OT I'm afraid. If you look at it with today's eyes and try to strip your own existing love for them, the OT is very dated. I tried to get my 17 year old niece to watch ep 4 (she insisted on starting in release order) and she just abandoned it half way through. To be fair I don't think TPM would have fared any better. Should have insisted she starts with TFA. But I had high hopes as she learned about all these 'retro' classics from social so we watched together some 70s horror classics (omen, exorcist etc) which she did watch through (but said they were crap - they are very dated indeed!). But nope. Luke was just too boring for her.
@@jellyfish828 ep 4 is kinda boring though, but if you get her to sit through it you can move to Empire Strike Back. She’ll probably like ep 5 a lot more.
@@LostTemplars Actually last Christmas I tried again starting with prequels. TPM was hard going but she finished it in two sittings. After that she wanted to watch more and she watched AotC and RoTS on two consecutive days and liked them. The next day I suggested Rogue One and she abandoned that half way through. We haven't got any further since. But she likes the prequels so that's something.
So a few weeks ago my husband and I rewatched all of the LOTR and Hobbit movies... we've seen them before, but decided that we wanted to watch them chronologically (Hobbit movies first, then LOTR movies), and loved it. I actually really enjoyed The Hobbit movies more watching them in this order than I did when they came out. This past weekend we decided to do the same with Star Wars. We are watching them with our oldest child (15), who has really only seen some of the newer Star Wars shows (Mandalorian, Book of Boba Fett, etc), and has MAYBE seen one of the major 9 movies. She does know that Darth Vader is Luke's father, and probably knows about the Death Star, but it just seemed more fun to watch the story in chronological order. Plus, Phantom Menace is generally considered to be the "worst" of the bunch (though, I still like it a lot, and so did our kid), so she did like that we got the "worst" one out of the way and that it only gets better after that, which says a lot since we still very much enjoyed it. 🙂
I'm a chronological order fan myself. I'm currently up to Rebels 3rd season after waiting to view Obi-Wan when it came out. It's the first viewing for my wife and it's fun the see her reactions. I'll have to pause after finishing up Rebels to view Andor (S1) with my wife so to be prepared to continue with Rogue 1and New Hope, on-ward. With Andor, Asoka and Obi-Wan, Mando,and others, it sure make these re-watches very complex.
@@thegoldman25 imagine going into Revenge of the Sith after watching the Clone Wars. You will be comfortable in the status quo of the CW but also have experienced all the brilliant set up. Then it all comes crashing down, half of you favorite characters die, the villain wins, and one of the main characters becomes DARK FCKING VADER. Then you watch the last two eps of TCW. I think it would be an incredible experience
@@LapisAndroid17ParkRanger I haven't seen all of rebels so idk. I'm sure you could watch the ending after the OT or something like that, just like I'd say watch the final 2 episodes of TCW after RotS
@@georgevelis4651 Yes true, the Vader vision still stands doh. In the Mortis arc with the force beeing known as the father, son, daughter. Anakin even turns to Vader there before a memory wipe. ( Where have you been to anser after a year lol).
I actually did watch the movies chronologically. I was born in 2002 and I remember my dad took me to the theaters when I was 3 to watch Revenge of the Sith with him. While Order 66 and Anakin burning traumatized the shit out of me, the rest of the movie blew my mind and turned me into a Star Wars Fan. Afterwards my dad showed the rest of the Saga chronologically. Now that I'm 19 I can say that I do not regret at all watching this way. While yes, the twist in ep 5 didn't shock me since I knew that Anakin was Vader I was still hyped cuz I wanted to see how Luke would react. In ROTJ, I remembered I cried when I saw the final fight between Luke and Vader, because it made think about all the previous 5 movies and how it all led to that point. Watching it in order was such a magical experience and I encourage it for people who are considering watching it. It's just as good as watching it in theatrical order.
I always watch Movies Chronologically. The added depth and context I feel improves it so much. To give an example of another set of movies, one time I did a marathon of the Thing movies. I had only previously seen the original from 1951. So I watched it in order of The original from 1951 then the 2011 prequel to the 1982 remake, then I watched the 1982 version last. So glad I did it that way as it took what would have been a slog of a first hour in the 1982 movie and instead having just watched the prequel, it gave it more suspense and cohesion.
I was just recomending the saga to a friend and I thought she should watch it in chronological order for exactly the same reasons you mentioned. However my brother thinks otherwise 🤷🏻♀️
Great video finally explaining this! I've always said, release order is honestly not good. Chronological is the best, and call me crazy but in my opinion Machete>Release 🤷🏽♂️ with release order you lose the emotion out of both the main points in the franchise: Anakin's downfall, Anakin's redemption. With the OT, you don't know Anakin at all so you don't get all the feels for his redemption. Then when you watch the prequels, you already know he's going to the dark side, you just don't know how. If you're new to Star Wars, assuming you're oblivious to even the more known facts, Chronological order is FULL of twists.
Awesome video. My gf is open to watching sw with me (I've seen all films and series) And I've not been due where to start but this has me convinced The build will be better going chronologically Thanks dude 😀
I can totally agree with your opinion because I I hate it when people watch it in release order and then already know that certain characters can't die and so many fights have no surprise factor because they already know who is gonna win
I really recommend chronological (Tv Shows INCLUDED!!) however unfortunately most people will be bored out of their minds having to watch Episodes 1, 2 and then 2 seasons of clone wars before things start to get good..
I think release order is better for one big reason: The Phantom Menace and Attack of the Clones are still widely regarded as the weakest entries in the series, and the problems are with basic things like the acting and dialogue. If you want someone new to the franchise to like them, then it makes sense to start with the best possible chance that they'll want to keep going. And the original movies have been doing that for decades. Starting with the PT and slogging through two mediocre movies before getting to a decent one is pretty risky. I actually agree with you that The Force Awakens is a solid starting point for new viewers who are disinclined to start with an old movie.
I actually agree with you. That’s why I said if someone is ready to commit themselves to 9-11 movies you should start with the prequels. Since they’re the weakest entries (imo) then might as well get them out of the way. Now that’s just how I see it. Thanks for the comment!
@@thegoldman25 Sure. I got that from the video. I just think committing to 9 movies is already a big ask, and starting a saga that long with a whimper is rough. And there's some serious tonal whiplash. If you watch the Vader hallway scene, it's hard to believe that the duel in A New Hope features the same person. I can see your point about some of the dramatic reveals being enhanced, but there's one that I can't get behind. I'm one of "those people" who thinks that the prophecy is lazy and ruins Anakin's character and Vader's redemption. If you watch the movie in release order, Vader is redeemed and returns to the light because he loves his son, and kills the Emperor as a benevolent side effect of saving Luke. If you watch them in chronological order, Vader kills the emperor because he was destined to bring balance to the force, and saves his son as a beneficial side effect. So even if there's more buildup, it's less effective to me because without the context of the prequels, the Return of the Jedi fight is much more personal. All in all, I really appreciate your video and your arguments are well reasoned, even if I don't agree.
The only real reason I can think of to watch it in release order is if you're a production geek and like to see how the movies changed over time from that point of view. But, that's mostly for a re-watch of the series, not for the first initial viewing. I've always stood by doing it chronologically too.
Here’s a couple of simple and good reasons. A. The films are numbered for a reason. B. Lucas himself states chronological order is his intended order in The Chosen One documentary.
One of my favorite watch orders is what I like to call “The Flashback order”, in which you start with 4 and 5, and then jump back to 1, 2, and 3, and then go forward to 6 (and so on).
Started watching in chronological today with my girlfriend. Just finished episode 2. Only SW movie I watched before this was episode 3 in theaters when I was 9. I know what happens, but I’m glad I have fresh context of everything leading up to this.
100% agree. It's a more emotional viewing. Plus most of the fans tend to do a rewatch in chrono order. Even after watching these films so many times I still get some emotional response when I rewatch the prequels (and also R1), which I don't from rewatching OT. The reason for that is that everything crumbles from within in PT (the republic, the jedi, all of the relationships, all with lashings of betrayal). The OT is a more straightforward good guys fight the evil guys with a bit of emotional content (mainly Vader's redemption) that offers a much sweeter pay off if you have watched PT first).
if the person doesn´t know about Vader being Luke`s father, then i think the viewing order, should watch them in this order imo: 4, 5, 1, 2, 3, 6, R1, solo, 7, 8, 9
Chronological Order (At least... for the six Original films), is the order intended by George Lucas himself, it's more true to his overall vision. With chronological order, you have more emotional investment in Anakin Skywalker/Darth Vader's story, and want to see him redeemed in the end, you ultimately feel sorry for Anakin, and it makes him that much better of a character. What fans fail to realize, Star Wars, in terms of Lucas's story, is ultimately the story of Anakin Skywalker, his fall and eventual rise. Luke Skywalker, while he is the main hero of the Original Trilogy, is really a catalyst for Anakin's arc.
My viewing order goes as follows: Rouge One, A New Hope, The Empire Strikes Back, The Phantom Menace , Attack of the Clones, The Clone Wars(Season 1 through 6), Revenge of the Sith and Return of the Jedi
True that. I tried to watch SW series starting from Ep4 so many times! I just couldn't get through it. There was nothing to suck me into the world and stuff just started happening. Couldn't care less (not to mention I already got sick of starwars praises). Then I decided to give it another go, but in chronological order and I was sliding through the movies like a sled on a butter. I didn't even have a reason to hate prequels due to the world-building, tension and stakes rising systematically. Now I'm glad I never watched EP4 for longer than 30 minutes prior to my binge. Problem for me was trying to jump into what's basically a series in the middle of the story.
The only order which I think would work instead of Chronological would be a variation of the machete order(4,5,1,2,3,6) The only reason I think this order could work is if they don’t the Vader twist which is unlikely but it still works as a kinda Godfather 2 experience and ending off on 6 is definitely important and could be heightened if we are given knew knowledge about how Conflicted Anakin is, and would make the finale even more exciting
My gf is committed. We're doing TPM, AOTC, TCW, ROTS, Solo, Rebels, Rogue One, ANH, TESB, ROTJ ROTS is gonna be much more impactful when you've seen Anakin and Obi-Wan's friendship through the series
@@thegoldman25 Of course, we're watching those too. I enjoy them and hope she does too. Dunno about Resistance though, I've never seen it myself so I don't know if it's good or not
I hv made a chronological viewing order of Star Wars in preparation of The Book of Boba fett and i can agree with most of the valid points as to why chronological is better. For a first time viewer of Star Wars I would say if u wna watch everything, watch it all chronological. If u wna watch just the movies I say 4,5,1-3,6 cause the reveal of Darth vader is dope and u wna see them come true with the prequels while makeing episode 6 the last movie to watch and just as important
I like to watch in more or less chronological order with some slight variations. Quite a few things have come out since this video. If I was showing someone this films for the first time I'd probably create a watch order based on that particular person. The other sorts of films they're interested in, how invested they are - if they want to see the entire series or just see what all the fuss is about. But this is how I watch it today. Episode I: The Phantom Meanace. Episode II: Attack of the Clones. Episode III: Revenge of the Sith. The Clone Wars Series and Film in Chronological Order. Tales of the Jedi. The Bad Batch. Solo: A Star Wars Story. Obi-Wan Kenobi. Andor. Rebels. Rogue One. Episode IV: A New Hope. Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back. Episode VI: Return of the Jedi. The Mandalorian Seasons 1 and 2. Ashoka (The series is currently running and I think it might be set after Mando season 2 but I could be wrong. I'll edit this if I am. I'm still on my rewatch of The Clone Wars and I'll probably take a break soon so I have the time) The Book of Bobba Fett. The Mandalorian Season 3. Episode VII: The Force Awakens. Episode VIII: The Last Jedi. Episode IX: The Rise of Skywalker. If I really want to be a completionist after that I might watch of of the other shows as sort of appendices to the main series. Young Jedi Adventures. (I haven't seen it yet, but it looks it would be a good show to start with for very young children) Resistance. Star Wars Visions.
I definitely agree that if the person in question doesn't know that Vader is Luke's father, that release is better. But if someone knows that twist and maybe just the small basics of Star Wars, seeing Anakin's descent to becoming Vader is a lot more powerful. They might not even be expecting the protagonist to become the trilogy's antagonist if you don't explain to them directly that Anakin is definitely Darth Vader. I also do think that for someone that is hesitant and doesn't really like older movies, it is best to start with the sequels. Since it's a lot more likely they're going to view the legacy characters in the movie, like Luke, Chewie and Han, R2, Vader, etc. the same way the new characters in the movie do.
In my opinion, a first-timer should watch the films in release order, (with maybe the exception of rogue one and solo, so they don't get in the way of the ST). And the main reason is not the Darth Vader reveal, the Luke-Leia reveal, or, in fact, any story-related reveals or twists. In your video, you explained how watching in chronological order enhances the original films. However, I would like to explain how watching in release order greatly enhances the prequels. Why does it matter? The OT films are, on a technical level, well done. They are good films. The prequels, however, are arguably not. The acting, dialogue, and pacing are some of the things that the prequels fail to deliver on. So, my defense of the release order could also be seen as a defense of the prequels. Knowing and experiencing what happened after the downfall of Anakin (i.e. events in the OT), watching the prequels after that makes it all the more heart-breaking. There is a palpable sense of inevitability and melancholia as you watch the events in the prequels unfold. There are lots of pivotal moments where you would think "his downfall could have been prevented if this goes another way", but you know it can't because in your memory the downfall had happened. You don't only know it, but you have seen and experienced what a monster Anakin had become. Those pivotal moments in the prequels will give you a sense of helplessness, adding so much more emotional depth. In fact, most of those scenes were clearly crafted to work only if you have watched the OT. Here are just a few examples: In TPM, Duel of the Fates is not just a cool piece of music. It literally plays over the fight that would ultimately decide Anakin's fate going into the future. It is a tug of war between the fates. Qui-Gon's death signifies the start of Anakin's tragedy. The funeral scene has a shot that really sells it all: the key players in Anakin's downfall (obi-wan, palpatine, padme) all in one shot as Qui-Gon's body burned to ashes while the imperial march echoed slightly in the background. This shot will not have the weight that it should have if TPM was the first SW film you watch. In AOTC, Duel of the Fates again, as Anakin rushed to his mother's rescue. It is another moment where the tug of war happens. You want something different to happen, but it can't, because it had happened. It's all the helplessness and inevitability again. The wedding at the end as Palpatine gained control of the republic with the star destroyers rising into the sky is so poignant. Anakin is getting married to his true love, and you want to feel happy for him, but you can't because you see where this is heading. ROTS: the entire film. Nuff said. Without watching and seeing the events in the OT happened, those moments I mentioned above (and many more throughout the PT) won't have the additional emotional baggage and depth they could have (and were also crafted for). You will be optimistic that things will become better because you haven't seen the destruction Darth Vader would bring to the galaxy. That is why the ending of ROTS (and also Rogue One) are so powerful. Despite everything going to shit in both films, the binary sunset (in ROTS) and Leia's "Hope" (in RO) mean a lot more because you have seen the OT. You know a farmboy will eventually rise up and be the hero to save the galaxy. You have seen the rebellion won the war. Those ending speak a million words without actually saying anything. And you will be able to appreciate them having watched the OT before them. I am sorry for the long comment, but just thought I had to get it out because I have seen a lot of weak defense for the release order (mainly "I am your father" reveal), and IMO those are very weak counterpoints to watching the story chronologically because chronological seems like the most logical way to watch a story. Just like Pulp Fiction and many other films, there are reasons why the stories are out of order and I genuinely think we should appreciate the artistic merits behind them.
My watch order would be Ep1>Ep2, then thrown in Clone Wars Seasons 1 to 6 .So far you are emotionaly connected with Anakin. Then you go with Ep 4 where you find out he died and you probably feel sad and wonder how did it happen. After that you watch Episode 5 and you get 2 Epic Twists:Vader being Luke's father and Anakin being Vader. After that you watch Episode 3 to confirm this. At the end you watch Ep6 to sum it all up in one nice ending.
If someone is growing up and hasn't seen star wars and doesn't know spoilers. I think the best order is 1,2, clone wars if you want, solo, rogue one, 4, 5, 3, last season of clone wars if you want, 6,7,8,9.
I might realize this is all silly as I type it, but I've been thinking about watching it this way: The movies being made in the order they were meant they were given to a general audience that already saw the most previous one made. Episode One banks on your memories and fondness of the original trilogy, and yet, The Revenge of the Sith makes you want to watch A New Hope (or Rogue One, which also makes you wanna watch ANH next). The answer COULD be to watch them cyclically. But what you start with (ep. 1 or 4) is answered by the fact that there are multiple versions of the OT. I say, watch the Original Original Trilogy, however you can get your hands on it, be it Harmy's Despecialized Edition or Project 4k77 4k80 4k83. Then watch the Prequels. THEN watch an updated version of the OT. Again, you may choose which that is, be it the official version, or a fan edit like The Final Cut which came out a few months ago. Just a thought. But yeah, I recently watched it in chronological order, and that made me love Anakin's redemption so much I actually teared up when Luke saw their force ghosts at the very end
I might add R1 and a bit of the best arcs from Clone Wars in there. Like I feel that if you watch some of the bits from Clone Wars between episode 2 and 3 you'll have a much more emotional reaction to the fall of Anakin and the Clone Troopers turning on the Jedi
The first film I would show is revenge of the sith, this is because it was the first Star Wars movie I watched when I was 3. Ever since I have been a huge Star Wars fan, and it has made me who I am today.
The Gold Man another reason why I would do this would be that to me it shows what Star Wars is all about, the music is epic, and arguably the best in the saga. There is lots of action for entertainment, and the tragic fall of the republic. I respectfully disagree with your proposal of starting with 7. It was not made by the original creator therefore it’s just an imitation of Star Wars.
In addition to my long-ass comment; I felt lucky to have been able to watch the movies in chronological order as a teenager. But now, as an adult I kind of wish I could have experienced watching in the release order as well. I could have felt the weight of "I am your father." I also made a mistake in my comment. I didn't watch ALL of it in chronological order. I only watched the MOVIES that were released at the time in chronological order.(episodes 1-6.) Nonetheless I am still grateful for my experience with this series and it will always have a place in my heart.
The only proof I need that the canon order is better is that the creator literally said the intended order is 1,2,3,4,5,6. Idc what all y'all say lmfao
Here's my own Star Wars movies to watch in chronological order: Solo Rogue One Episode IV Episode V Episode I Episode II Episode III Episode VI Episode VII Episode VIII Episode IX
Star Wars Forever My order is Episode I, Episode II, Episode III, Episode IV, Episode V, feeling burned out, Episode VI, Episode VII, feeling even more burned out, Episode VIII, 1/2 of Episode IX, stopping entirely, starting several months later with Episode I again 😂
A New Hope was intended to be seen like a 1960s serial, where if you watched Episode 4 you would just have to work out what's going on. That's why you go release.
The proper order is 7- The viewer will be just as mystified with what has happened as the characters in the movie are Then machete the original saga to get the Vader and sister twists. Then watch 8, which turns everything on its head. Then 9 to conclude.
I agree, It depends of the person, if the person only want to give ONE chance to the franchise, The Force Awakens is the best choice, if he or she have made the decision of watching the entire thing, yes, the chronological order is the best for them. A lot of people argue that the Prequels are NOT a good start for newer audiences because the quality of the prequels is. questionable. But I disagree, what I've seen, most of the people that haven't seen one single Star Wars movie are not too much of movie fans, and that's ok, they are more casual viewers, while others are gonna point out the acting, the dialogue, structure or special effects, this viewers just want to known the franchise or film their reaction, so yes, Chronological is the best for beginners.
The movies that take place after rotj don’t exist in my opinion so other than that I liked the video. Also I think they should remake the original trilogy.
I say if someone is hesitant to watch star wars show them the mandalorian first. Like TFA it's new but it stand on its own so people won't be to confused.
I think the movie to get people on board is either Rogue One or A New Hope. A New Hope stands on its own the best and Rogue One is both a newer movie and gives you that sense of conflict early. A plus is your first view of Vader is as this terrifying force whom we learn more about in the prequels. I’d be on board with Chronological (ending at Return of the Jedi) if those deleted Anakin Padmae scenes and most of the others were put back into Attack of the Clones.
I’m fine with either a flashback or chronological order. The only philistines are the ones skipping Episode 1 for no reason. It hurts the rest of the saga to skip it. If you were to watch just 1 or 2 to get a taste I’d go with Rogue One and A New Hope. I’m not sure why your being so hostile with me when it’s the OT fan boys that deserve it. They’re part of the reason Star Wars is in the state it’s in with Disney. I refuse to start with The Force Awakens as the test movie. Which is why I suggested the Rouge One and A New Hope combo.
Great vid man! You made some great points! And also the MCU analogy was pretty much me, I hadn’t watched anything since The Winter Soldier and Ant Man and I was so confused when I watched endgame lol. But luckily I have Disney Plus so I watched all the films over again.
I think narrative-wise, this is the best viewing order Anakin’s story: - Rogue One - ANH - TESB - TPM - AOTC - TCW 1-6 - ROTS - ROTJ The Spin-offs - TCW 7 - Bad Batch - Solo - Rebels - Mando The Sequels: - TFA - Resistance S1 - TLJ - Resistance S2 - TROS
I never said it’s the only way, it’s just my opinion. I’m curious, why do you think release order is better? I feel chronological really enhances the experience of the prequels
Best viewing order is machete order 4, 5, 1, 2, 3, 6 - After Luke Finding Out That Vader Is His Father, You Will See The Prequel Trilogy As A Flashback To Anakin’s Life Before He Became Vader. And Saving Episode 6 For Last Means You’re Ending Your Viewing Of The Saga On A Good Note.
The main flaw with starting in chronological order is that the Force is not very clearly explained in Ep.1. You can kind of gather what a Jedi can do, but it's all kind of vague compared to the concise explanation given by Obi-Wan in Ep.4. In a lot of places, Ep.1 assumes some familiarity with some of these basic concepts.
So my neighbor has Disney+, and we have watched the Mandalorian together, but he has never watced the movies. He is up for watching the movies, and as far as I have been able to discern(I've tried to ask him about it without spoiling it), he doesn't know Vader is Luke's father. I originally thought I'd make him watch it in chronological order, but because he doesn't know about "I am your father" I thought maybe he should watch them in the release order? I really like the chronological order though, so I am unsure. Really, the two only reasons I think he might want to watch it in release order is because starting off with ep 1 and 2 can be a bit of a drag, and the father plot twist might actually work for him. Other than that, in my opinion the prequels are not that bad. George Lucas himself has said that he did mean for people to watch them chronilogically, and I think the chronological order works really well with the exception of the father plot twist. I am really not sure what to do.
With the timing of me being born in the late 90s and my parents not having the funds and being too busy to watch these movies in theater, I was lucky enough to be able to be able to watch literally EVERYTHING in chronological order. The only star wars I had in my elementary years was an old VHS copy of The Phantom Menace and a DVD copy of Attack of the Clones. I would spend most of my childhood freetime rewatching those two movies in order, being so obsessed with Star Wars. However I would never get a sequel nor would I have been able to for a long time as during this time the internet wasn't a common thing and my parents only had an outdated computer, so eventually I lost interest and completely let go of the series. Come late 2000s and I'm nearing middle school. I came close to a spoiler once when a goofy teacher would quote "I am your father." But I never understood it nor cared to. One day my brother brings home a bootleg copy of Revenge of the Sith. (He was apparently a big fan of star wars before I was even born and he had already seen all of the originals and the first two prequels at the time. I was only just now hearing about this as my brother had always been busy playing outside and playing with yugioh and pokemon cards during my elementary and kindergarten years. He and I ended up watching it on a movie night and my god was it beautiful. I was genuinely heartbroken about seeing the cool hero I grew up and obsessed with, (Anakin) falling to the dark side and becoming that "ugly scary black robot thingy"(Darth Vader). I'd spent the next few years or so occasionally having movie nights with my brother and sister rewatching episode 3. My brother had reminded me from time to time that there were 3 more episodes but being a kid at the time I'd forget it everytime. Then one time on commercial I saw an ad of a star wars collection that advertised having "all six episodes." My mind was boggled upon discovery. I couldn't wrap my head around the fact that I'd never heard of an episode 4,5, or 6. I kept questioning myself in my head, "How could I not have known about this? Am I dumb? How could I not have seen seen commercials or heard about these new star wars episodes?" Of course being an adult, now I know that they weren't NEW episodes and that they were actually produced way long ago. I became obsessed with Star Wars again and kept looking through our various channels(we had DirecTV as of this time) until I eventually found a Star Wars marathon that included episodes 4-6. It was phenomenal to say the least. However there are a couple things I remember; I was very underwhelmed and confused by the "I am your father" reveal. I didn't understand why so many people in my school had made jokes about this line and scene. I didn't understand why it was so famous either. I also was slightly disappointed to see Vader take off his mask and not see Hayden.(No offense to Sebastian, I just wanted to see Hayden as I grew up seeing him become Darth Vader.) However aside from those two things, everything was absolutely phenomenal. The effects still looked amazing to me even though it was the late 2000s and I had seen newer CGI works like in the Spiderman movies.(Yeah, the star wars OT is that amazing. The effects were still mesmerizing to a kid even decades later). Words can't express how I felt about this saga. I am very grateful to have had it be a part of my childhood and I pitied other kids in my generation who have never heard of or watched this seriees. I am so thankful my parents and my brother provided me this in my childhood. Star wars was the world to me. Thank you for reading. :)
I'll say if you don't Know who Darth Vader is you should watch it like this and it wouldn't spoil anything Phantom menace Attack Of the Clones Solo Rogue One A New Hope Empire Strikes Back Revenge Of The Sith Return Of The Jedi What do you think
I believe the new viewers should start with the release order, ANH and ESB give a lot of context about what is the Force, the Jedi, the dark side and let to see the chronological after watching all. But I have two friends that started with The Phantom Menace and it wasn't a problem (one of them knew the Darth Vader revelation and the other presumed it would get lost with the events 🤣), and it is my favorite order too, everything feels more tragic hahah
Me: okay I’m gonna ask you some questions to see what viewing order is right for you Friend: Okay Me: Do you know Vader is Luke’s father? Friend: Now I do.
I prefer Expanded Machete. I do believe that this would give first time viewers the perfect emotional roller coaster: 1) A New Hope (Theatrical) 2) Empire (Theatrical) 3) The Phantom Menace 4) Attack of the Clones 5) Clone Wars/ The Clone Wars (In chronological order) 6) Revenge of the Sith+ Clone Wars final arc 7) Return of the Jedi (Theatrical) 8) Solo 9) Rebels 10) Rogue Juan 11) A New Hope (Special Edition) 12) The Holiday Special (as a drinking game) 13) Empire (Special Edition) 14) Return of the Jedi (Special Edition) 15) The Mandalorian 16) Resistance (Season 01 E01- E17) 17) The Force Awakens 18) Resistance (Season 01 E18- Season 2 E01) 19) The Last Jedi 20) Resistance (Season 2 E02- End) 21) The Rise of Skywalker 22) The Lego Star Wars Holiday Special (canon be damned) The normal machete order underplays the importance of The Phantom Menace by discarding it entirely (even tho it's Uber important, sets up the political landscape for the entire prequel era, shows us what a true jedi should look like in Qui-Gon and shows us how the Jedi screwed up with Anakin and his attachment to his mother). In this order, there's no Jabba in the theatrical cut of a new hope, so he's this character you only hear about for two movies, and then he debuts in the phantom menace in virtually a cameo role, and gets built up during the clone wars. It also preserves the redemption of Anakin skywalker until after revenge of the sith. Clone Wars turns Anakin into a character you care about more adding to the devastation of revenge of the sith, plus you understand his mindset more, then on top of that the tragedy of order 66 gets emphasised, and you instantly get flooded with questions of "What about Rex and Ahsoka" to which you can get the answer instantly in the clone wars final 4 episodes. Also the Luke Leia sibling reveal is more of a reveal coming from Revenge of the Sith than it is in Return of the Jedi (where it seems low key throwaway). This helps to create maximum stakes for Return of the Jedi (altho the urgency of rescuing Han might be somewhat diminished with such a large amount of content between Empire and ROTJ), and the audience having now seen Anakin is rooting for his redemption. Then delving into the backstory of the original trilogy with Solo, Rebels and Rogue One helps to address a bunch of questions before moving on (what other Jedi survived Order 66? How come Han didn't know about the Jedi in ANH?) and the epilogue of star wars rebels makes sense because you're seeing this after ROTJ. After a special edition rewatch of the Original Trilogy (which is warranted after Rogue One, and then prequel fans get the nice Hayden surprise), you move into the sequels era, starting with Mandalorian which sets up the imperial remnant and those snoke esque experiments, then there's a kickass Luke scene which will help with expectations when jumping into the last jedi. Star Wars resistance is good because it adds political context to the sequel trilogy (all the Cold War stuff), and it leads directly into The Force Awakens, where we see the Hosnian system destroyed, so instantly people will be like "Wait, isn't that Kaz home planet?" so then you watch the five episodes of resistance that overlap TFA, then you see TLJ, and the next episode of resistance picks up in TLJ's aftermath salvaging the dreadnought. Then after the rise of skywalker you round things off nicely with the second holiday special which nicely brings everything together crossing over all eras of star wars. Also using the original holiday special as a drinking game is perfect. Take a shot every time you hear a wookiee growl. You get rewarded with hospitalisation.
@@thegoldman25 the only downside I've found with it honestly is the dip in quality from Attack of the Clones until after the first season of "The Clone Wars". That has been the worst slough for my friends to get through. Additionally Volume 1 of Clone Wars can be difficult for the casual viewer because it's an overload of action for a single sitting. The microseries works better watched in bitesize chunks (well except for the final 4 Chapters which work really well as a lead-in to Revenge of the Sith).
I don't remember what movie I started the series with but I was bored out of my mind in the middle of it. It's either too slow or I'm just not interested.
And maybe putting Mando in there when it's done. One of my probs with Chronological is viewing return of the Jedi and force awakens back-to-back cause both revolve around blowing up a death star in their the final act, which makes the repitition even more glaring lol. Also, it would give more context about the New Republic so it would feel more impactful when it's destroyed in EP. 7 👍
I'd like to disagree. Been rewatching and watching for the first time some of the best Clone Wars arcs and knowing everything that happens in the third episode and later makes you feel strong emotions such as: "why are the clones have to die if it's just Palpatine trying to deceive everyony?" "Oh Fives, you desperate will to alert everyone about Sidious' Plan is futile. I feel so bad for you" "Oh, Anakin tortures a guy with force choke. Well that makes sense considering one of his first on screen scenes each force choking an empire lieutenant"
Solid vid. But I still think the release order is the way to go. These movies introduce stuff with every release. R1 seems much bigger in scale than ANH. I also would skip the prequels but to each their own.
I think you just changed my mind. I've always told people release order is best for the first watch, then chronological any time after. But you emphasized exactly why chronological has that charm. Most everyone knows the I am your father quote. Beyond that, the best twists, falls, and triumphs occur most impactfully as you follow the timeline. I believe George himself recommends chronological as well. I do have two counters. First, transitioning to the older original films might feel like a visual downgrade after the prequels, which might be a dampener to the casual watcher, but still fine for those invested in the story (because obviously they're still exceptional movies). That and the prequels pretty clearly set up Anakin as likely to become Vader (cue the iconic breathing during his darker scenes), which makes his turn in Revenge of the Sith assumed to the viewer who's paying attention. Most beats of the story do feel better emphasized in chronological order for the first-time view, though. A big part of it is that the original trilogy is better known in popular culture (unless you're talking to people who follow memes, lol). People know who Yoda is; his reveal in ESB loses impact. People know Luke and Leia are siblings; the impact is lost. Most people don't know what Order 66 is- it is devastating. Most people don't know about Padme's absence in the OT- her death is heartbreaking. So many other examples that chronological order can prop up for a first time viewing experience. Nice video!
My other thought is that I still don't think I'd recommend Rogue One before A New Hope. Yes, it's an intriguing idea to further explore the death star plot before knowing its fate, but I think it's too much of a detraction from the Skywalker storyline. I dunno, it's a cool idea, but I'd first stick with 1-3, 4-6. I do like this recommendation!
@@obvious_owl7206 I agree with a lot of your points. But for rogue one I think it’s a great idea to watch before Ep 4. Imagine your first time seeing Anikin fight as Vader in the very ending.
Having just come off of Phantom Menace (obviously a rewatch), I can confidently say that this is the best way to consume Star Wars. That film actually sets up the Star Wars universe really well, hitting all the major points, and it also introduces the Jedi and the Sith masterfully, through the eyes of young Ani.
And on top of that, your first major lightsaber battle is FRICKIN DUEL OF THE FATES!!
I'm glad someone else agreed
@@thegoldman25i agree too
I wish i had watched them in chronological not knowing anything
Me too, it would be so cool
@@thegoldman25 I did. It was amazing.
Same
Same :( I even knew that Vader is Luke's father...
I have a watchlist on Disney plus of everything star wars they have in chronological order even if its not cannon
This is why I would watch in chronological order. You meet Anakin Skywalker and watch his growth up until RotS, when Anakin turns to the Dark Side, where you hear Palpatine say "Henceforth, you shall be known a Darth Vader", and eventually the big fight happens and you see Anakin/Vader in the suit, which carries over into A New Hope.
Agreed!
Something many old school fans forget is that EVERYONE knows the "plot twists" of the OT, where they know Vader is Luke's dad (because everyone keeps saying in Vaders voice "Luke, I am your father") and that Leia and Luke are siblings (since one of the biggest controversies ever was how Luke and Leia made out even though their siblings). Yet if your first viewing starts with the prequels, you're not going to be spoiled by the major events that happen. You don't know who Vader is, you don't know who Anakin and Padme are, you don't even know about Order 66 because you didn't have the OT spoil that for you, so it's a much bigger emotional hit because you weren't prepared for it, weren't prepared to see Anakin's fall, Padme's death, the fall of the Republic and destruction of the Jedi Order.
this is a great point!
But still…. A New Hope and Empire Strikes Back work best as introduction movies.
If you watch them after the prequels they’re basically delivering exposition about events the audience already knows about.
but at the same time kids who is gonna watch star wars for the first time probaly dont know the about the twist or anything and ot explained the star wars universe more proper and it was easier to understand the prequels start with a lot of things that dont make sense at all at first viewing
@@SDfan2002 heavly aggre and in the orginal trilogy we explored the star wars universe with luke trough all 3 movies. In the phantom menace we explore some with plot points in the star wars universe with anakin but we dont learn the importantthing things that where explained in the ot. And in attack of the clones and revenge of the sith we dont learn anything so the ot is the best to start with
I can’t believe it. You actually convinced me that chronological order is better. My math teacher has never seen Star Wars and she asked me and my friend what order to watch them, and we told her about the chronological order, not release order
That’s cool to hear! I’m glad more people are open to the idea of chronological order
I generally recommend chronological order for most media. while its true you lose a few twists, theres plenty of others that happen.
Agreed
I'd argue the OT no longer has twists since everyone knows about them, even people who have never seen star wars before knows that Vader is Luke's dad and Luke and Leia are siblings thanks to a line that basically ruins the major plot twist as well as an argument fans have been having over the whole Leia kissing Luke fiasco.
I have my friend watched it in chronological. She loved it.
I’m glad she enjoyed it!
It better bc anakin turning. Into vader is bigger than vader being anakin
@@diamonddank7864 it makes the reveal more of a victory for Anakin than Luke learning the truth
I showed my gf at the time episodes 1-6+R1 in chrono order with her having very limited prior knowledge and it was a treat to watch the evolution of things through her eyes. Especially her reaction to Episode 3 and everything going to shit. Instead of Luke finding out Vader is his father, the big twist of the series was Anakin becoming Vader.
time for the sequels!
I would argue that's an even greater twist
@@alphagamer9505 agreed
I watched them in chronological order and I remember being shocked for days when Anakin became Darth Vader.
Wow you actually changed my mind here, despite me loathing the prequels, it really does make sense to watch these movies in chronological order
I’m glad I changed ur mind, I really think this is a better way of watching the films
I don't mean to pry here but may I ask why you don't like the prequels that much? (Genuinely curious)
I want to clarify my position. I think all three prequel movies are bad movies if I’m being unbiased. But I love the era and revenge of the Sith. I can love a movie I don’t think is good, I even find a decent amount to enjoy of attack of the Clones. It’s mostly the phantom menace I find very little to enjoy. But I don’t hate the prequels, I love the story, just not two of the films. I hope that clarified things for you!
@@thegoldman25 I think he was talking to me lol
Before I saw this video my main reason to start with the originals was to not give anyone a bad first impression of Star Wars by suggesting to watch TPM first (for obvious reasons)
That's actually a very interesting take! I think with what Dave Filoni said recently in regards to EP1, especially the Duel of The Fates, I think the Machete order would not work as it would remove a very important aspect of the story as a whole.
I’m not too big on the machete order, I think chronological is way better
George Lucas put numbers on these films for a reason. To reiterate Rick Woley, isn’t it an even bigger twist to follow our hero for three films only to have him suddenly become the villain? Doesn’t it add extra tension to Luke departing Dagobah, knowing how similar he is to his father (lack of patience, letting concern for his loved once get the better of him) and that he could actually also turn?
That’s a good point!
The Gold Man
I can recommend his video, though he is a bit smug and I don‘t share his derision of the sequels, particularly The Last Jedi.
Another awesome video as usual😊
Thank you! I really appreciate it :)
This. So much. Like most people on earth know Darth Vader is luke father. You dont need to know franchise to know that line. Just watch the series in chronological. Most people dont know who Anakin is.
Agreed, thanks for watching!
I still would recommend someone watch the movies in release order for the many of the same reasons you say chronological order. Nevertheless, I see where you're coming from and great video!
Interesting, thank you for checking out the video tho!
I watched in chronological the first 6 movies with my sister who only knew about I am your father seen like you said and she loved it and because we saw it in chronological order she loved episode 6 the return of the jedi since palpatine got defeted and darth vader became good again she even cried at the end of the movie seeing the party and all the ghosts togehter
how about the sequels?
@@thegoldman25 Exactly right?
@@thegoldman25 the sequels sucked
I’m glad you put in those disclaimers because i think I’d have a hard time getting my friend through Star Wars by showing them the prequels first
Those disclaimers are important
I think this also applies to the OT I'm afraid. If you look at it with today's eyes and try to strip your own existing love for them, the OT is very dated. I tried to get my 17 year old niece to watch ep 4 (she insisted on starting in release order) and she just abandoned it half way through. To be fair I don't think TPM would have fared any better. Should have insisted she starts with TFA. But I had high hopes as she learned about all these 'retro' classics from social so we watched together some 70s horror classics (omen, exorcist etc) which she did watch through (but said they were crap - they are very dated indeed!). But nope. Luke was just too boring for her.
@@jellyfish828 ep 4 is kinda boring though, but if you get her to sit through it you can move to Empire Strike Back. She’ll probably like ep 5 a lot more.
@@LostTemplars Actually last Christmas I tried again starting with prequels. TPM was hard going but she finished it in two sittings. After that she wanted to watch more and she watched AotC and RoTS on two consecutive days and liked them. The next day I suggested Rogue One and she abandoned that half way through. We haven't got any further since. But she likes the prequels so that's something.
@@jellyfish828 But the best part of rogue one is the 3rd act
So a few weeks ago my husband and I rewatched all of the LOTR and Hobbit movies... we've seen them before, but decided that we wanted to watch them chronologically (Hobbit movies first, then LOTR movies), and loved it. I actually really enjoyed The Hobbit movies more watching them in this order than I did when they came out.
This past weekend we decided to do the same with Star Wars. We are watching them with our oldest child (15), who has really only seen some of the newer Star Wars shows (Mandalorian, Book of Boba Fett, etc), and has MAYBE seen one of the major 9 movies. She does know that Darth Vader is Luke's father, and probably knows about the Death Star, but it just seemed more fun to watch the story in chronological order. Plus, Phantom Menace is generally considered to be the "worst" of the bunch (though, I still like it a lot, and so did our kid), so she did like that we got the "worst" one out of the way and that it only gets better after that, which says a lot since we still very much enjoyed it. 🙂
I'm a chronological order fan myself. I'm currently up to Rebels 3rd season after waiting to view Obi-Wan when it came out. It's the first viewing for my wife and it's fun the see her reactions. I'll have to pause after finishing up Rebels to view Andor (S1) with my wife so to be prepared to continue with Rogue 1and New Hope, on-ward. With Andor, Asoka and Obi-Wan, Mando,and others, it sure make these re-watches very complex.
PREACH!!! Chronological (including spin-offs and tv shows) >>>>> release order
Maybe not so much the shows but definitely the movies
Rebels last episode jumps to after Return of the Jedi. Clone wars shows you a Darth Vader vision. So that would be a bad idea.
@@thegoldman25 imagine going into Revenge of the Sith after watching the Clone Wars. You will be comfortable in the status quo of the CW but also have experienced all the brilliant set up. Then it all comes crashing down, half of you favorite characters die, the villain wins, and one of the main characters becomes DARK FCKING VADER. Then you watch the last two eps of TCW. I think it would be an incredible experience
@@LapisAndroid17ParkRanger I haven't seen all of rebels so idk. I'm sure you could watch the ending after the OT or something like that, just like I'd say watch the final 2 episodes of TCW after RotS
@@georgevelis4651 Yes true, the Vader vision still stands doh. In the Mortis arc with the force beeing known as the father, son, daughter. Anakin even turns to Vader there before a memory wipe. ( Where have you been to anser after a year lol).
I actually did watch the movies chronologically. I was born in 2002 and I remember my dad took me to the theaters when I was 3 to watch Revenge of the Sith with him. While Order 66 and Anakin burning traumatized the shit out of me, the rest of the movie blew my mind and turned me into a Star Wars Fan. Afterwards my dad showed the rest of the Saga chronologically. Now that I'm 19 I can say that I do not regret at all watching this way. While yes, the twist in ep 5 didn't shock me since I knew that Anakin was Vader I was still hyped cuz I wanted to see how Luke would react. In ROTJ, I remembered I cried when I saw the final fight between Luke and Vader, because it made think about all the previous 5 movies and how it all led to that point. Watching it in order was such a magical experience and I encourage it for people who are considering watching it. It's just as good as watching it in theatrical order.
that's awesome! thanks for sharing!
I always watch Movies Chronologically. The added depth and context I feel improves it so much.
To give an example of another set of movies, one time I did a marathon of the Thing movies.
I had only previously seen the original from 1951. So I watched it in order of The original from 1951 then the 2011 prequel to the 1982 remake, then I watched the 1982 version last. So glad I did it that way as it took what would have been a slog of a first hour in the 1982 movie and instead having just watched the prequel, it gave it more suspense and cohesion.
I was just recomending the saga to a friend and I thought she should watch it in chronological order for exactly the same reasons you mentioned. However my brother thinks otherwise 🤷🏻♀️
Stand why what you think, you clearly know more about Star Wars than your brother
Great video finally explaining this! I've always said, release order is honestly not good. Chronological is the best, and call me crazy but in my opinion Machete>Release 🤷🏽♂️ with release order you lose the emotion out of both the main points in the franchise: Anakin's downfall, Anakin's redemption. With the OT, you don't know Anakin at all so you don't get all the feels for his redemption. Then when you watch the prequels, you already know he's going to the dark side, you just don't know how. If you're new to Star Wars, assuming you're oblivious to even the more known facts, Chronological order is FULL of twists.
im glad other people see it the same way as me!
I think the proper way to negate the dread of watching Leia kissing her brother is to watch "Game of Thrones" first.
Awesome video.
My gf is open to watching sw with me (I've seen all films and series)
And I've not been due where to start but this has me convinced
The build will be better going chronologically
Thanks dude 😀
That is awesome!
I can totally agree with your opinion because I I hate it when people watch it in release order and then already know that certain characters can't die and so many fights have no surprise factor because they already know who is gonna win
agreed
I really recommend chronological (Tv Shows INCLUDED!!)
however unfortunately most people will be bored out of their minds having to watch Episodes 1, 2 and then 2 seasons of clone wars before things start to get good..
Yeah, you changed my mind. Nice video!
Wow, thank you so much for watching!
You bring up some good point for this that I have never thought of.
That’s what I do, thanks for watching!
I think release order is better for one big reason:
The Phantom Menace and Attack of the Clones are still widely regarded as the weakest entries in the series, and the problems are with basic things like the acting and dialogue.
If you want someone new to the franchise to like them, then it makes sense to start with the best possible chance that they'll want to keep going. And the original movies have been doing that for decades. Starting with the PT and slogging through two mediocre movies before getting to a decent one is pretty risky.
I actually agree with you that The Force Awakens is a solid starting point for new viewers who are disinclined to start with an old movie.
I actually agree with you. That’s why I said if someone is ready to commit themselves to 9-11 movies you should start with the prequels. Since they’re the weakest entries (imo) then might as well get them out of the way. Now that’s just how I see it. Thanks for the comment!
@@thegoldman25 Sure. I got that from the video. I just think committing to 9 movies is already a big ask, and starting a saga that long with a whimper is rough.
And there's some serious tonal whiplash. If you watch the Vader hallway scene, it's hard to believe that the duel in A New Hope features the same person.
I can see your point about some of the dramatic reveals being enhanced, but there's one that I can't get behind. I'm one of "those people" who thinks that the prophecy is lazy and ruins Anakin's character and Vader's redemption. If you watch the movie in release order, Vader is redeemed and returns to the light because he loves his son, and kills the Emperor as a benevolent side effect of saving Luke. If you watch them in chronological order, Vader kills the emperor because he was destined to bring balance to the force, and saves his son as a beneficial side effect. So even if there's more buildup, it's less effective to me because without the context of the prequels, the Return of the Jedi fight is much more personal.
All in all, I really appreciate your video and your arguments are well reasoned, even if I don't agree.
Thanks for the nice response! I am too not a fan of the prophesy, but I don’t think it hurts the originals
Episode 8 is the worst
And revenge of the sith has the same thing too
The only real reason I can think of to watch it in release order is if you're a production geek and like to see how the movies changed over time from that point of view. But, that's mostly for a re-watch of the series, not for the first initial viewing. I've always stood by doing it chronologically too.
that too
You convinced me Gold Man. After you gave the disclaimer about Vader. I👍
I’m glad, thanks as always Max!
great video
Thank you for watching!
I can't wait when after years of waiting and production, chronologically we will have to start with The High Republic.
true
My favorite viewing order is back and forth between Anakin and Luke's stories 1, 4, 2, 5, 3, 6 I prefer this to machete order but it's kinda similar
...why?
Here’s a couple of simple and good reasons.
A. The films are numbered for a reason.
B. Lucas himself states chronological order is his intended order in The Chosen One documentary.
One of my favorite watch orders is what I like to call “The Flashback order”, in which you start with 4 and 5, and then jump back to 1, 2, and 3, and then go forward to 6 (and so on).
I believe that's the machete order? It's so you can be surprised by The Vader scene and get the biggest pay off for Jedi
@@CyanJimbo usually that order omits episode 1, which imo, doesn’t really sit right with me
@Antonio-Granscijesus dude get a grip
You literally explained all of my points I’ve had whenever arguing about this very well. Good job
Another fantastic video. And I agree chronological order is the best...
Thanks for watching Michael!
Started watching in chronological today with my girlfriend. Just finished episode 2. Only SW movie I watched before this was episode 3 in theaters when I was 9. I know what happens, but I’m glad I have fresh context of everything leading up to this.
Tell me how the rest goes!
100% agree. It's a more emotional viewing. Plus most of the fans tend to do a rewatch in chrono order. Even after watching these films so many times I still get some emotional response when I rewatch the prequels (and also R1), which I don't from rewatching OT. The reason for that is that everything crumbles from within in PT (the republic, the jedi, all of the relationships, all with lashings of betrayal). The OT is a more straightforward good guys fight the evil guys with a bit of emotional content (mainly Vader's redemption) that offers a much sweeter pay off if you have watched PT first).
if the person doesn´t know about Vader being Luke`s father, then i think the viewing order, should watch them in this order imo: 4, 5, 1, 2, 3, 6, R1, solo, 7, 8, 9
I highly advise against starting with Rogue One, from personal experience
@@thegoldman25 I changed the order by moving rogue one to between episode 6 and solo
Better, that’s basically the machete order
this is so underrated dude! keep it up!
thank you!
Chronological Order (At least... for the six Original films), is the order intended by George Lucas himself, it's more true to his overall vision. With chronological order, you have more emotional investment in Anakin Skywalker/Darth Vader's story, and want to see him redeemed in the end, you ultimately feel sorry for Anakin, and it makes him that much better of a character. What fans fail to realize, Star Wars, in terms of Lucas's story, is ultimately the story of Anakin Skywalker, his fall and eventual rise. Luke Skywalker, while he is the main hero of the Original Trilogy, is really a catalyst for Anakin's arc.
My viewing order goes as follows: Rouge One, A New Hope, The Empire Strikes Back, The Phantom Menace , Attack of the Clones, The Clone Wars(Season 1 through 6), Revenge of the Sith and Return of the Jedi
Don’t forget the sequels!
Force of awakens was the first Star Wars I watched and it made me watch it in the storyline order and rn I’m 3 movies in (started today)
True that. I tried to watch SW series starting from Ep4 so many times! I just couldn't get through it. There was nothing to suck me into the world and stuff just started happening. Couldn't care less (not to mention I already got sick of starwars praises). Then I decided to give it another go, but in chronological order and I was sliding through the movies like a sled on a butter. I didn't even have a reason to hate prequels due to the world-building, tension and stakes rising systematically.
Now I'm glad I never watched EP4 for longer than 30 minutes prior to my binge. Problem for me was trying to jump into what's basically a series in the middle of the story.
The only order which I think would work instead of Chronological would be a variation of the machete order(4,5,1,2,3,6) The only reason I think this order could work is if they don’t the Vader twist which is unlikely but it still works as a kinda Godfather 2 experience and ending off on 6 is definitely important and could be heightened if we are given knew knowledge about how Conflicted Anakin is, and would make the finale even more exciting
My gf is committed. We're doing TPM, AOTC, TCW, ROTS, Solo, Rebels, Rogue One, ANH, TESB, ROTJ
ROTS is gonna be much more impactful when you've seen Anakin and Obi-Wan's friendship through the series
dont forget the sequels
@@thegoldman25 Of course, we're watching those too. I enjoy them and hope she does too. Dunno about Resistance though, I've never seen it myself so I don't know if it's good or not
I hv made a chronological viewing order of Star Wars in preparation of The Book of Boba fett and i can agree with most of the valid points as to why chronological is better. For a first time viewer of Star Wars I would say if u wna watch everything, watch it all chronological. If u wna watch just the movies I say 4,5,1-3,6 cause the reveal of Darth vader is dope and u wna see them come true with the prequels while makeing episode 6 the last movie to watch and just as important
don't forget the sequels!!!
I like to watch in more or less chronological order with some slight variations. Quite a few things have come out since this video. If I was showing someone this films for the first time I'd probably create a watch order based on that particular person. The other sorts of films they're interested in, how invested they are - if they want to see the entire series or just see what all the fuss is about. But this is how I watch it today.
Episode I: The Phantom Meanace.
Episode II: Attack of the Clones.
Episode III: Revenge of the Sith.
The Clone Wars Series and Film in Chronological Order.
Tales of the Jedi.
The Bad Batch.
Solo: A Star Wars Story.
Obi-Wan Kenobi.
Andor.
Rebels.
Rogue One.
Episode IV: A New Hope.
Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back.
Episode VI: Return of the Jedi.
The Mandalorian Seasons 1 and 2.
Ashoka (The series is currently running and I think it might be set after Mando season 2 but I could be wrong. I'll edit this if I am. I'm still on my rewatch of The Clone Wars and I'll probably take a break soon so I have the time)
The Book of Bobba Fett.
The Mandalorian Season 3.
Episode VII: The Force Awakens.
Episode VIII: The Last Jedi.
Episode IX: The Rise of Skywalker.
If I really want to be a completionist after that I might watch of of the other shows as sort of appendices to the main series.
Young Jedi Adventures. (I haven't seen it yet, but it looks it would be a good show to start with for very young children)
Resistance.
Star Wars Visions.
I definitely agree that if the person in question doesn't know that Vader is Luke's father, that release is better. But if someone knows that twist and maybe just the small basics of Star Wars, seeing Anakin's descent to becoming Vader is a lot more powerful. They might not even be expecting the protagonist to become the trilogy's antagonist if you don't explain to them directly that Anakin is definitely Darth Vader.
I also do think that for someone that is hesitant and doesn't really like older movies, it is best to start with the sequels. Since it's a lot more likely they're going to view the legacy characters in the movie, like Luke, Chewie and Han, R2, Vader, etc. the same way the new characters in the movie do.
I agree with your take on the sequels, thanks for watching!
I have come up with the Poetry Order (it rhymes) which preserves both the Vader-father and Leia-sister reveal: 1, 4, 2, 5, 3, 6
A bit if Clone wars if you can,
then 4, 5, 1,2,3, (as a flashback) then 6. The Leia reveal will feel like something if done this way as well.
In my opinion, a first-timer should watch the films in release order, (with maybe the exception of rogue one and solo, so they don't get in the way of the ST). And the main reason is not the Darth Vader reveal, the Luke-Leia reveal, or, in fact, any story-related reveals or twists.
In your video, you explained how watching in chronological order enhances the original films. However, I would like to explain how watching in release order greatly enhances the prequels. Why does it matter? The OT films are, on a technical level, well done. They are good films. The prequels, however, are arguably not. The acting, dialogue, and pacing are some of the things that the prequels fail to deliver on. So, my defense of the release order could also be seen as a defense of the prequels.
Knowing and experiencing what happened after the downfall of Anakin (i.e. events in the OT), watching the prequels after that makes it all the more heart-breaking. There is a palpable sense of inevitability and melancholia as you watch the events in the prequels unfold. There are lots of pivotal moments where you would think "his downfall could have been prevented if this goes another way", but you know it can't because in your memory the downfall had happened. You don't only know it, but you have seen and experienced what a monster Anakin had become. Those pivotal moments in the prequels will give you a sense of helplessness, adding so much more emotional depth. In fact, most of those scenes were clearly crafted to work only if you have watched the OT. Here are just a few examples:
In TPM, Duel of the Fates is not just a cool piece of music. It literally plays over the fight that would ultimately decide Anakin's fate going into the future. It is a tug of war between the fates. Qui-Gon's death signifies the start of Anakin's tragedy. The funeral scene has a shot that really sells it all: the key players in Anakin's downfall (obi-wan, palpatine, padme) all in one shot as Qui-Gon's body burned to ashes while the imperial march echoed slightly in the background. This shot will not have the weight that it should have if TPM was the first SW film you watch.
In AOTC, Duel of the Fates again, as Anakin rushed to his mother's rescue. It is another moment where the tug of war happens. You want something different to happen, but it can't, because it had happened. It's all the helplessness and inevitability again. The wedding at the end as Palpatine gained control of the republic with the star destroyers rising into the sky is so poignant. Anakin is getting married to his true love, and you want to feel happy for him, but you can't because you see where this is heading.
ROTS: the entire film. Nuff said.
Without watching and seeing the events in the OT happened, those moments I mentioned above (and many more throughout the PT) won't have the additional emotional baggage and depth they could have (and were also crafted for). You will be optimistic that things will become better because you haven't seen the destruction Darth Vader would bring to the galaxy. That is why the ending of ROTS (and also Rogue One) are so powerful. Despite everything going to shit in both films, the binary sunset (in ROTS) and Leia's "Hope" (in RO) mean a lot more because you have seen the OT. You know a farmboy will eventually rise up and be the hero to save the galaxy. You have seen the rebellion won the war. Those ending speak a million words without actually saying anything. And you will be able to appreciate them having watched the OT before them.
I am sorry for the long comment, but just thought I had to get it out because I have seen a lot of weak defense for the release order (mainly "I am your father" reveal), and IMO those are very weak counterpoints to watching the story chronologically because chronological seems like the most logical way to watch a story. Just like Pulp Fiction and many other films, there are reasons why the stories are out of order and I genuinely think we should appreciate the artistic merits behind them.
My watch order would be Ep1>Ep2, then thrown in Clone Wars Seasons 1 to 6 .So far you are emotionaly connected with Anakin.
Then you go with Ep 4 where you find out he died and you probably feel sad and wonder how did it happen.
After that you watch Episode 5 and you get 2 Epic Twists:Vader being Luke's father and Anakin being Vader.
After that you watch Episode 3 to confirm this.
At the end you watch Ep6 to sum it all up in one nice ending.
dont forget the sequels!
You have to skip the Mortis Arc though. Anakin sees his future as Darth Vader. (He then has that memory erased.)
Solid video gold
Thank you!
@@thegoldman25 No problem. Can't wait when you do a pro-Rian video and watch Lunga have a heart attack LOL Be safe and enjoy the summer.
😂😂😂
If someone is growing up and hasn't seen star wars and doesn't know spoilers. I think the best order is 1,2, clone wars if you want, solo, rogue one, 4, 5, 3, last season of clone wars if you want, 6,7,8,9.
I might realize this is all silly as I type it, but I've been thinking about watching it this way:
The movies being made in the order they were meant they were given to a general audience that already saw the most previous one made. Episode One banks on your memories and fondness of the original trilogy, and yet, The Revenge of the Sith makes you want to watch A New Hope (or Rogue One, which also makes you wanna watch ANH next). The answer COULD be to watch them cyclically. But what you start with (ep. 1 or 4) is answered by the fact that there are multiple versions of the OT.
I say, watch the Original Original Trilogy, however you can get your hands on it, be it Harmy's Despecialized Edition or Project 4k77 4k80 4k83. Then watch the Prequels. THEN watch an updated version of the OT. Again, you may choose which that is, be it the official version, or a fan edit like The Final Cut which came out a few months ago.
Just a thought. But yeah, I recently watched it in chronological order, and that made me love Anakin's redemption so much I actually teared up when Luke saw their force ghosts at the very end
Well shit... I agree... I didn't think I would have
I might add R1 and a bit of the best arcs from Clone Wars in there. Like I feel that if you watch some of the bits from Clone Wars between episode 2 and 3 you'll have a much more emotional reaction to the fall of Anakin and the Clone Troopers turning on the Jedi
I watch star wars movies in timeline order
good choice
The first film I would show is revenge of the sith, this is because it was the first Star Wars movie I watched when I was 3. Ever since I have been a huge Star Wars fan, and it has made me who I am today.
Interesting take but one I would disagree with, it’s the end of the trilogy
The Gold Man another reason why I would do this would be that to me it shows what Star Wars is all about, the music is epic, and arguably the best in the saga. There is lots of action for entertainment, and the tragic fall of the republic. I respectfully disagree with your proposal of starting with 7. It was not made by the original creator therefore it’s just an imitation of Star Wars.
I'm feel the same way when I saw episode 3 when I was little.
Nice video as usual! 🤗
Thank you!
In addition to my long-ass comment; I felt lucky to have been able to watch the movies in chronological order as a teenager. But now, as an adult I kind of wish I could have experienced watching in the release order as well. I could have felt the weight of "I am your father." I also made a mistake in my comment. I didn't watch ALL of it in chronological order. I only watched the MOVIES that were released at the time in chronological order.(episodes 1-6.) Nonetheless I am still grateful for my experience with this series and it will always have a place in my heart.
great story man
The only proof I need that the canon order is better is that the creator literally said the intended order is 1,2,3,4,5,6. Idc what all y'all say lmfao
My dream is to fall in love with someone whom I can introduce into Star wars
Here's my own Star Wars movies to watch in chronological order:
Solo
Rogue One
Episode IV
Episode V
Episode I
Episode II
Episode III
Episode VI
Episode VII
Episode VIII
Episode IX
Interesting choice, not sure I agree with starting with the spinoffs
My order is
Episode I
Episode II
Episode III
Episode IV
Episode V
Episode VI
Star Wars Forever
My order is Episode I, Episode II, Episode III, Episode IV, Episode V, feeling burned out, Episode VI, Episode VII, feeling even more burned out, Episode VIII, 1/2 of Episode IX, stopping entirely, starting several months later with Episode I again 😂
@@Rounderyathecruel you forgot 7,8,9
@@killer_007x4 I was only counting canon ones
A New Hope was intended to be seen like a 1960s serial, where if you watched Episode 4 you would just have to work out what's going on. That's why you go release.
The proper order is
7- The viewer will be just as mystified with what has happened as the characters in the movie are
Then machete the original saga to get the Vader and sister twists.
Then watch 8, which turns everything on its head. Then 9 to conclude.
Interesting. I would have to think about that one
The ADHD order.
😂😂
That's interesting, it's like everything else is a flashback to add weight/context with the Sequels acting as the main story.
Wait but in The Force Awakens Leia and Luke’s sibling relationship is spoiled
I agree, It depends of the person, if the person only want to give ONE chance to the franchise, The Force Awakens is the best choice, if he or she have made the decision of watching the entire thing, yes, the chronological order is the best for them.
A lot of people argue that the Prequels are NOT a good start for newer audiences because the quality of the prequels is. questionable. But I disagree, what I've seen, most of the people that haven't seen one single Star Wars movie are not too much of movie fans, and that's ok, they are more casual viewers, while others are gonna point out the acting, the dialogue, structure or special effects, this viewers just want to known the franchise or film their reaction, so yes, Chronological is the best for beginners.
Thanks for watching!
The movies that take place after rotj don’t exist in my opinion so other than that I liked the video. Also I think they should remake the original trilogy.
L you
I say if someone is hesitant to watch star wars show them the mandalorian first. Like TFA it's new but it stand on its own so people won't be to confused.
Not an awful idea
Currently doing this and my brother & his wife are loving it. Hoping to get them into the movies after Mando
I agree. Fantastic video!
Thank you so much!
The best viewing order is the Machete Order, that way you get the full impact of the Leia twist at the end of ROTS.
I think the movie to get people on board is either Rogue One or A New Hope. A New Hope stands on its own the best and Rogue One is both a newer movie and gives you that sense of conflict early. A plus is your first view of Vader is as this terrifying force whom we learn more about in the prequels.
I’d be on board with Chronological (ending at Return of the Jedi) if those deleted Anakin Padmae scenes and most of the others were put back into Attack of the Clones.
I’m fine with either a flashback or chronological order. The only philistines are the ones skipping Episode 1 for no reason. It hurts the rest of the saga to skip it.
If you were to watch just 1 or 2 to get a taste I’d go with Rogue One and A New Hope.
I’m not sure why your being so hostile with me when it’s the OT fan boys that deserve it. They’re part of the reason Star Wars is in the state it’s in with Disney.
I refuse to start with The Force Awakens as the test movie. Which is why I suggested the Rouge One and A New Hope combo.
Great vid man! You made some great points! And also the MCU analogy was pretty much me, I hadn’t watched anything since The Winter Soldier and Ant Man and I was so confused when I watched endgame lol. But luckily I have Disney Plus so I watched all the films over again.
I can’t believe you watched endgame without watching infinity war or Civil War 😂 thanks for watching!
I think narrative-wise, this is the best viewing order
Anakin’s story:
- Rogue One
- ANH
- TESB
- TPM
- AOTC
- TCW 1-6
- ROTS
- ROTJ
The Spin-offs
- TCW 7
- Bad Batch
- Solo
- Rebels
- Mando
The Sequels:
- TFA
- Resistance S1
- TLJ
- Resistance S2
- TROS
i would skip resistance tbh
@@thegoldman25 Yeah, it’s definitely the most optional.
A person: Release order is the best
Me: “It’s treason, then”😏
I never said it’s the only way, it’s just my opinion. I’m curious, why do you think release order is better? I feel chronological really enhances the experience of the prequels
I think he means me ):
Darn I actually meant to put release order...my mistake! Didn’t mean to sound like that
Oh okay 😅 for a second I thought you were assuming a crap on others who disagree with me. Thanks for clarifying!
Ok good! Sry for the misunderstanding. Another great vid as always👍🏼
Best viewing order is machete order
4, 5, 1, 2, 3, 6
- After Luke Finding Out That Vader Is His Father, You Will See The Prequel Trilogy As A Flashback To Anakin’s Life Before He Became Vader. And Saving Episode 6 For Last Means You’re Ending Your Viewing Of The Saga On A Good Note.
The main flaw with starting in chronological order is that the Force is not very clearly explained in Ep.1. You can kind of gather what a Jedi can do, but it's all kind of vague compared to the concise explanation given by Obi-Wan in Ep.4. In a lot of places, Ep.1 assumes some familiarity with some of these basic concepts.
this is a fair point, but i think the flaws of starting with 4 are higher
@@thegoldman25 I don’t mind chronological order at all. I just think that’s its only real flaw. But machete order is the most problematic of all
So my neighbor has Disney+, and we have watched the Mandalorian together, but he has never watced the movies. He is up for watching the movies, and as far as I have been able to discern(I've tried to ask him about it without spoiling it), he doesn't know Vader is Luke's father. I originally thought I'd make him watch it in chronological order, but because he doesn't know about "I am your father" I thought maybe he should watch them in the release order?
I really like the chronological order though, so I am unsure. Really, the two only reasons I think he might want to watch it in release order is because starting off with ep 1 and 2 can be a bit of a drag, and the father plot twist might actually work for him. Other than that, in my opinion the prequels are not that bad. George Lucas himself has said that he did mean for people to watch them chronilogically, and I think the chronological order works really well with the exception of the father plot twist.
I am really not sure what to do.
I think you should do chronological still, i don't think that one reveal is worth it
Return of the Jedi is so powerful when U watch it from episodes 1-6. Anakin redeems himself after everything from episodes 3-6
With the timing of me being born in the late 90s and my parents not having the funds and being too busy to watch these movies in theater, I was lucky enough to be able to be able to watch literally EVERYTHING in chronological order. The only star wars I had in my elementary years was an old VHS copy of The Phantom Menace and a DVD copy of Attack of the Clones. I would spend most of my childhood freetime rewatching those two movies in order, being so obsessed with Star Wars. However I would never get a sequel nor would I have been able to for a long time as during this time the internet wasn't a common thing and my parents only had an outdated computer, so eventually I lost interest and completely let go of the series. Come late 2000s and I'm nearing middle school. I came close to a spoiler once when a goofy teacher would quote "I am your father." But I never understood it nor cared to. One day my brother brings home a bootleg copy of Revenge of the Sith. (He was apparently a big fan of star wars before I was even born and he had already seen all of the originals and the first two prequels at the time. I was only just now hearing about this as my brother had always been busy playing outside and playing with yugioh and pokemon cards during my elementary and kindergarten years. He and I ended up watching it on a movie night and my god was it beautiful. I was genuinely heartbroken about seeing the cool hero I grew up and obsessed with, (Anakin) falling to the dark side and becoming that "ugly scary black robot thingy"(Darth Vader). I'd spent the next few years or so occasionally having movie nights with my brother and sister rewatching episode 3. My brother had reminded me from time to time that there were 3 more episodes but being a kid at the time I'd forget it everytime. Then one time on commercial I saw an ad of a star wars collection that advertised having "all six episodes." My mind was boggled upon discovery. I couldn't wrap my head around the fact that I'd never heard of an episode 4,5, or 6. I kept questioning myself in my head, "How could I not have known about this? Am I dumb? How could I not have seen seen commercials or heard about these new star wars episodes?" Of course being an adult, now I know that they weren't NEW episodes and that they were actually produced way long ago. I became obsessed with Star Wars again and kept looking through our various channels(we had DirecTV as of this time) until I eventually found a Star Wars marathon that included episodes 4-6. It was phenomenal to say the least. However there are a couple things I remember; I was very underwhelmed and confused by the "I am your father" reveal. I didn't understand why so many people in my school had made jokes about this line and scene. I didn't understand why it was so famous either. I also was slightly disappointed to see Vader take off his mask and not see Hayden.(No offense to Sebastian, I just wanted to see Hayden as I grew up seeing him become Darth Vader.) However aside from those two things, everything was absolutely phenomenal. The effects still looked amazing to me even though it was the late 2000s and I had seen newer CGI works like in the Spiderman movies.(Yeah, the star wars OT is that amazing. The effects were still mesmerizing to a kid even decades later). Words can't express how I felt about this saga. I am very grateful to have had it be a part of my childhood and I pitied other kids in my generation who have never heard of or watched this seriees. I am so thankful my parents and my brother provided me this in my childhood. Star wars was the world to me.
Thank you for reading. :)
that's an amazing story, what are you thoughts on the sequels?
I think they're okay. Not as good of an experience for me but they're not soooooo bad as exaggerated.
I'll say if you don't Know who Darth Vader is you should watch it like this and it wouldn't spoil anything
Phantom menace
Attack Of the Clones
Solo
Rogue One
A New Hope
Empire Strikes Back
Revenge Of The Sith
Return Of The Jedi
What do you think
Don’t forget the sequels!
@@thegoldman25 Sorry forgot they were canon
I believe the new viewers should start with the release order, ANH and ESB give a lot of context about what is the Force, the Jedi, the dark side and let to see the chronological after watching all. But I have two friends that started with The Phantom Menace and it wasn't a problem (one of them knew the Darth Vader revelation and the other presumed it would get lost with the events 🤣), and it is my favorite order too, everything feels more tragic hahah
I agree, I think tragedy is a big part of it, thanks for watching!
Rouge 1, 4, 5, 1,2 3 then last 6, 7 8 and 9 don't excist you go straight onto mando and boba then your finished.
But the sequels are better than the prequeks
1:10 if you did this with me that would be the last movie I'd have watched.
Me: okay I’m gonna ask you some questions to see what viewing order is right for you
Friend: Okay
Me: Do you know Vader is Luke’s father?
Friend: Now I do.
you don't need to be that direct lol
I prefer Expanded Machete. I do believe that this would give first time viewers the perfect emotional roller coaster:
1) A New Hope (Theatrical)
2) Empire (Theatrical)
3) The Phantom Menace
4) Attack of the Clones
5) Clone Wars/ The Clone Wars (In chronological order)
6) Revenge of the Sith+ Clone Wars final arc
7) Return of the Jedi (Theatrical)
8) Solo
9) Rebels
10) Rogue Juan
11) A New Hope (Special Edition)
12) The Holiday Special (as a drinking game)
13) Empire (Special Edition)
14) Return of the Jedi (Special Edition)
15) The Mandalorian
16) Resistance (Season 01 E01- E17)
17) The Force Awakens
18) Resistance (Season 01 E18- Season 2 E01)
19) The Last Jedi
20) Resistance (Season 2 E02- End)
21) The Rise of Skywalker
22) The Lego Star Wars Holiday Special (canon be damned)
The normal machete order underplays the importance of The Phantom Menace by discarding it entirely (even tho it's Uber important, sets up the political landscape for the entire prequel era, shows us what a true jedi should look like in Qui-Gon and shows us how the Jedi screwed up with Anakin and his attachment to his mother).
In this order, there's no Jabba in the theatrical cut of a new hope, so he's this character you only hear about for two movies, and then he debuts in the phantom menace in virtually a cameo role, and gets built up during the clone wars. It also preserves the redemption of Anakin skywalker until after revenge of the sith. Clone Wars turns Anakin into a character you care about more adding to the devastation of revenge of the sith, plus you understand his mindset more, then on top of that the tragedy of order 66 gets emphasised, and you instantly get flooded with questions of "What about Rex and Ahsoka" to which you can get the answer instantly in the clone wars final 4 episodes. Also the Luke Leia sibling reveal is more of a reveal coming from Revenge of the Sith than it is in Return of the Jedi (where it seems low key throwaway).
This helps to create maximum stakes for Return of the Jedi (altho the urgency of rescuing Han might be somewhat diminished with such a large amount of content between Empire and ROTJ), and the audience having now seen Anakin is rooting for his redemption.
Then delving into the backstory of the original trilogy with Solo, Rebels and Rogue One helps to address a bunch of questions before moving on (what other Jedi survived Order 66? How come Han didn't know about the Jedi in ANH?) and the epilogue of star wars rebels makes sense because you're seeing this after ROTJ. After a special edition rewatch of the Original Trilogy (which is warranted after Rogue One, and then prequel fans get the nice Hayden surprise), you move into the sequels era, starting with Mandalorian which sets up the imperial remnant and those snoke esque experiments, then there's a kickass Luke scene which will help with expectations when jumping into the last jedi. Star Wars resistance is good because it adds political context to the sequel trilogy (all the Cold War stuff), and it leads directly into The Force Awakens, where we see the Hosnian system destroyed, so instantly people will be like "Wait, isn't that Kaz home planet?" so then you watch the five episodes of resistance that overlap TFA, then you see TLJ, and the next episode of resistance picks up in TLJ's aftermath salvaging the dreadnought. Then after the rise of skywalker you round things off nicely with the second holiday special which nicely brings everything together crossing over all eras of star wars.
Also using the original holiday special as a drinking game is perfect. Take a shot every time you hear a wookiee growl. You get rewarded with hospitalisation.
Thank you for sharing this! I also love your drinking game idea haha
@@thegoldman25 the only downside I've found with it honestly is the dip in quality from Attack of the Clones until after the first season of "The Clone Wars". That has been the worst slough for my friends to get through. Additionally Volume 1 of Clone Wars can be difficult for the casual viewer because it's an overload of action for a single sitting. The microseries works better watched in bitesize chunks (well except for the final 4 Chapters which work really well as a lead-in to Revenge of the Sith).
I don't remember what movie I started the series with but I was bored out of my mind in the middle of it. It's either too slow or I'm just not interested.
And maybe putting Mando in there when it's done. One of my probs with Chronological is viewing return of the Jedi and force awakens back-to-back cause both revolve around blowing up a death star in their the final act, which makes the repitition even more glaring lol.
Also, it would give more context about the New Republic so it would feel more impactful when it's destroyed in EP. 7 👍
That’s true, but not a big negative for me
I'd like to disagree. Been rewatching and watching for the first time some of the best Clone Wars arcs and knowing everything that happens in the third episode and later makes you feel strong emotions such as: "why are the clones have to die if it's just Palpatine trying to deceive everyony?" "Oh Fives, you desperate will to alert everyone about Sidious' Plan is futile. I feel so bad for you" "Oh, Anakin tortures a guy with force choke. Well that makes sense considering one of his first on screen scenes each force choking an empire lieutenant"
When I say chronological order I just mean the films. I think the animated shows should definitely be watched after all the films
Solid vid. But I still think the release order is the way to go. These movies introduce stuff with every release. R1 seems much bigger in scale than ANH. I also would skip the prequels but to each their own.
I respect you sharing your opinion, thanks for watching!
I think you just changed my mind. I've always told people release order is best for the first watch, then chronological any time after. But you emphasized exactly why chronological has that charm. Most everyone knows the I am your father quote. Beyond that, the best twists, falls, and triumphs occur most impactfully as you follow the timeline. I believe George himself recommends chronological as well.
I do have two counters. First, transitioning to the older original films might feel like a visual downgrade after the prequels, which might be a dampener to the casual watcher, but still fine for those invested in the story (because obviously they're still exceptional movies). That and the prequels pretty clearly set up Anakin as likely to become Vader (cue the iconic breathing during his darker scenes), which makes his turn in Revenge of the Sith assumed to the viewer who's paying attention.
Most beats of the story do feel better emphasized in chronological order for the first-time view, though. A big part of it is that the original trilogy is better known in popular culture (unless you're talking to people who follow memes, lol). People know who Yoda is; his reveal in ESB loses impact. People know Luke and Leia are siblings; the impact is lost. Most people don't know what Order 66 is- it is devastating. Most people don't know about Padme's absence in the OT- her death is heartbreaking. So many other examples that chronological order can prop up for a first time viewing experience.
Nice video!
My other thought is that I still don't think I'd recommend Rogue One before A New Hope. Yes, it's an intriguing idea to further explore the death star plot before knowing its fate, but I think it's too much of a detraction from the Skywalker storyline. I dunno, it's a cool idea, but I'd first stick with 1-3, 4-6. I do like this recommendation!
@@obvious_owl7206 I agree with a lot of your points. But for rogue one I think it’s a great idea to watch before Ep 4. Imagine your first time seeing Anikin fight as Vader in the very ending.
@@CaIamity_ And then wondering why he isn't doing the same at all in ANH.
@@willfanofmanyii3751 You can still watch it blind and know that 4 5 and 6 were made first
so what now? which movies first and which come next?
Can u tell whats the correct order... without getting spoiler...the correct way?
someone who watches the phantom menace first is gonna make someone not want to watch the rest of the movies because it is terrible
That’s why he suggested the force awakens
I’m not sure, I still think release may be better. But you make some good points!
All I can ask is that you respect my opinions, thank you!