If you’re a Star Wars fan, you might wonder which movie is considered the first one in the series. Is it Episode IV: A New Hope, which was released in 1977, or is there an earlier film that sets the stage for the epic space opera?
The answer to this question can be a bit confusing, but let’s break it down. In terms of release date, Episode IV: A New Hope is indeed the first Star Wars movie that hit theaters. It introduced us to Luke Skywalker, Han Solo, Princess Leia, and Darth Vader and set up the conflict between the Rebel Alliance and the evil Empire.
However, in terms of chronological order within the Star Wars universe, Episode I: The Phantom Menace takes place first. This film was released in 1999 and is set 32 years before A New Hope. It introduces us to Anakin Skywalker (who later becomes Darth Vader) as a young boy and sets up some of the key political conflicts that lead to the rise of the Empire.
So while A New Hope was the first Star Wars movie to be made and released, it’s actually part of a larger narrative that begins with The Phantom Menace. To fully understand and appreciate the entire story of Star Wars, it’s important to watch all of the films in chronological order.
Now you might be wondering about other Star Wars content like TV shows or books. In terms of canonical order (as defined by Lucasfilm), there are several other pieces of media that fit into different points on the timeline. For example, The Clone Wars animated series takes place between Episodes II and III, while Rogue One: A Star Wars Story takes place just before A New Hope.
In conclusion, while Episode IV: A New Hope was technically the first Star Wars movie to be released and is often considered a classic film in its own right, it’s important to consider its place within the larger narrative of this franchise. To get the full story, be sure to watch all of the films (and TV shows, if you’re so inclined) in chronological order. May the Force be with you!
