Star Wars fans' favourite films ranked and original beaten by unexpected entry

George Lucas may have conceived Star Wars as a simple space adventure, but it evolved into one of the globe's most influential franchises, reshaping our cultural fabric.

Devoted followers have made it their quest to watch every film and television spin-off in this sprawling space saga. However, each viewing raises a perennial question: which Star Wars film reigns supreme?

Rotten Tomatoes has stepped in to settle this debate by ranking all 12 films based on audience ratings, and the results might surprise even the most ardent fans.

The overall score is determined by viewers' one- to five-star ratings, propelling the original 1977 feature to an impressive 94% and clinching the top spot.

Die-hard Star Wars enthusiasts might be taken aback to discover that among the highest-rated films, the third place goes to a recent entry, Star Wars: The Force Awakens, reports the Mirror US.

This 2015 instalment marked the first release since Disney took over Lucasfilm, sparking controversy and heralding the beginning of Disney's reign—which later gave rise to a plethora of new characters and narratives in numerous Disney original series.

'The Force Awakens' stormed onto the scene as the first chapter of the sequel trilogy, and as film number seven in the storied Skywalker Saga, sparking lively debate among purists of the original Star Wars fanbase.

Critics have weighed in, with one review stating: "Easily the best 'first entry' of the three trilogies. Loved the characters. The story was great. Beautiful to see and hear and, most importantly, care about. There are some bad Star Wars films, and this is not one of them."

Another fan said: "Force Awakens is nearly perfect. I loved the pacing, acting, action, characters, and story. It's my favorite Star Wars film."

Crowned at the pinnacle of the franchise is none other than 'Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope', the epic adventure that first introduced us to silver screen legends such as Mark Hamill's Luke Skywalker, Harrison Ford's Han Solo, and Carrie Fisher's Princess Leia. This original masterpiece continues to be cherished by legions of fans, many of whom adamantly believe it deserves its place at the zenith of the saga, having ignited an endlessly captivating narrative of interstellar conflict.

Lauding the film for its enduring impact, one fan said: "Star Wars: A New Hope is a timeless classic that revolutionized science fiction with its groundbreaking visual effects and unforgettable score.

"For its time, the film pushed the boundaries of cinematic storytelling, launching the legendary careers of actors like Mark Hamill and Harrison Ford. More than just a space adventure, it's a masterpiece anchored in the powerful theme of hope-reminding viewers that even in the darkest times, light can break through."

The second spot is deservedly occupied by Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back, which hit cinemas three years later in 1980. This beloved sequel clinched a close second with a 93% Rotten Tomatoes rating, matching the score of the third-placed film.

Languishing at the bottom of the list, in twelfth place, is Star Wars: The Clone Wars. This 2008 animated feature didn't quite capture fans' hearts as much as its seven-season TV counterpart did, earning a meagre 15% rating.

In stark contrast, the ninth film, Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker, leaps ahead with a 51% score.

Whether you're keen to embark on a full franchise marathon, revisit the top-rated instalment, or give the lowest-ranked film another chance, all original and Disney additions to the Star Wars universe are ready for streaming on Disney+.