Welcome to a galaxy far, far away! If you are hearing about the Jedi, the Sith, and the epic battle between light and darkness for the first time, don't worry. The Star Wars saga has many stories that can get you hooked, but where to start? At JoinBareng, we love sharing premium streaming tips to make your watching experience even more enjoyable. This article focuses on the best Star Wars movies for beginners, designed to be easy to follow without needing to memorize a complex timeline.
Before we dive into the list, remember that Star Wars is not just a movie, but a grand adventure that can be enjoyed via platforms like Disney+ Hotstar. And hey, if you want cheap access to premium subscriptions, check out our sharing service at JoinBareng to save costs while watching quality content.
This article is part of our complete guide. Read the complete guide here for more inspiration on other iconic films.
As a beginner, you might be confused by the release order or the story's chronology. But stay calm; the best Star Wars movies for beginners we have chosen combine classic and modern elements so you can connect instantly. From heroic adventures to heart-pounding plot twists, every movie has a message about courage, friendship, and inner strength. We have ordered them based on recommendations that are friendly for newcomers, starting from the most foundational. Are you ready to join the rebels against the Empire?
With a total of more than 9 main films and spin-offs, this saga is rich in spectacular visuals and legendary soundtracks by John Williams. Watching via Disney+ Hotstar (which you can get through JoinBareng) will make your experience more immersive, especially with HD quality and Indonesian subtitles.
1. Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope (1977)
The movie that started it all! Here, you meet Luke Skywalker, a young farm boy who discovers his destiny as a Jedi. A simple story: rebels against an evil Empire, with Darth Vader as the iconic villain. The main reason this is the best Star Wars movie for beginners? The plot is straightforward, without a complicated backstory. Duration 121 minutes, full of lightsaber action and exciting X-Wing starfighters. IMDb Rating: 8.6. Watch this first, and you'll immediately want to continue to the sequels!
2. Star Wars: Episode V - The Empire Strikes Back (1980)
A direct continuation of the first one, but deeper in emotion. Luke learns the power of the Force from the funny Yoda, while Han Solo and Leia face threats on Hoth. The ending twist is legendary: "I am your father!" This is the movie that builds the Star Wars world in more detail but remains easy to understand. Why is it suitable for beginners? Because it introduces mystical elements without being confusing. Duration 124 minutes, the special visual effects are still timeless. If you like the hero's journey story, this is a must!
3. Star Wars: Episode VI - Return of the Jedi (1983)
The epic conclusion to the original trilogy! The final battle between Luke and Darth Vader, plus the attack on the second Death Star. The adorable Ewoks and the celebration at the end make it light and fun. As a best Star Wars movie for beginners, this provides satisfying closure after the previous two films. Duration 131 minutes, full of hope and victory. After this, you already understand the basics of the saga.
4. Star Wars: Episode VII - The Force Awakens (2015)
Returning to a new era with Rey, Finn, and Kylo Ren. This is like a spiritual sequel to the original trilogy, with a nostalgic feel but a fresh story. Beginners will love it because it's similar to the first film: a new hero rises against a new threat. Directed by J.J. Abrams, the visuals are modern and stunning. Duration 138 minutes, rating 7.8. Stream on Disney+ Hotstar via JoinBareng, and feel the hype!
5. Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace (1999)
If you want to explore the origins, start with this prequel. A young Anakin Skywalker, a spectacular lightsaber duel with Darth Maul, and the introduction of the Jedi Council. Despite some criticism regarding the dialogue, the podracing action is exciting for beginners. This is a best Star Wars movie for beginners who want to know the backstory without going too deep. Duration 136 minutes, the music is iconic. Watch it after the original trilogy to appreciate it more.
6. Rogue One: A Star Wars Story (2016)
A standalone spin-off! The story about a rebel team that steals the Death Star plans. It doesn't require deep knowledge but links directly to Episode IV. Full of military action and strong characters like Jyn Erso. Why is it beginner-friendly? A linear plot and a moving ending. Duration 133 minutes, rating 7.8. It's like a war movie in the Star Wars universe – perfect for those who love thrillers.
7. Star Wars: Episode VIII - The Last Jedi (2017)
A continuation of The Force Awakens, with Luke returning and the battle of Kylo Ren vs. Rey. Themes about failure and hope make it deep, but visuals like the battle on Crait are extraordinary. For beginners, this expands the world without being confusing. Duration 152 minutes, rating 6.9 (but underrated!). If you like plot twists, this will make for an exciting discussion.
8. Solo: A Star Wars Story (2018)
The origins of the charming Han Solo! From a young thief to meeting Chewbacca and Lando. A light adventure story, full of humor and smuggling action. Suitable as a best Star Wars movie for beginners because it is standalone and fun. Duration 135 minutes, rating 6.9. Alden Ehrenreich as a young Solo makes it fresh – ideal for a break from the main story.
9. Star Wars: Episode IX - The Rise of Skywalker (2019)
The conclusion of the sequel trilogy with Rey facing Emperor Palpatine again. Massive action and a reunion of old characters. Although fast-paced, beginners can follow if they have watched VII and VIII. Duration 142 minutes, rating 6.4. This provides an epic end to the Skywalker saga.
10. Star Wars: Episode II - Attack of the Clones (2002) and Episode III - Revenge of the Sith (2005)
A combination of the prequel continuations: the romance of Anakin and Padme, the clone wars, and the transformation into Darth Vader. Episode III in particular is dark and intense. For beginners, watch after Episode I to understand the conflict. Duration around 142 and 140 minutes respectively. These are the best Star Wars movies for beginners who want to explore the dark side of the Force.
FAQ
Now, after exploring the 10 best Star Wars movies for beginners, it's time to grab your remote and start your adventure. This saga is not just entertainment, but a lesson about courage in the midst of darkness. With these recommendations, you'll quickly become a loyal fan. Don't forget to share your experience in the comments! And for easy access, join JoinBareng now for Disney+ Hotstar subscriptions and other premium services like Netflix or Spotify.
This article is part of our complete guide. Read the complete guide here for other exciting Disney movie recommendations.