So the forums on this site love criticizing and deconstructing all the things that are "wrong" about the various installments of the franchise. Because nobody hates Star Wars, as much as Star Wars fans. And frankly, I grow weary of that. So this thread is about the things you LIKE about Star Wars. And not just like, but LOVE. The scenes, themes, lines, whatever it is, that makes you love this franchise, decades later, or made you fall in love with it for the first time recently (to the younger fans).

Now, I'm not looking for a thesis length reason why, just a nice synopsis of the scene's effect on you, and why you love it. Also, just like 3 scenes at most, just to keep things reasonable length.

So in no particular order:

When Luke first ignites his saber in Return: I was a kid when RotJ hit theaters, and it's one of the first memories I have of a movie having an effect on a crowd. Theater was packed (not something I was used to as a kid seeing movies), and everyone had a ton of anticipation. Luke starts walking out on the gangplank...that slow...tense instrument (basoon I think? Tuba?) starts playing, driving up the tension. Everyone is watching, in film, and in the theater, wondering what Luke will do. We know he's got "a plan", and he's got magic powers, so it should be pretty cool. Then, he jumps, people in the film scream expecting to see another death, he twirls and flies higher than expected, and perfectly catches the saber toss from R2. He ignites it, and the music swells as only John Williams can do it. My little kid brain was absolutely floored. The audience lost their **** when that happened. It was just so freaking cool to see, and to watch as the heroes proceeded to each work independently to get to each other, so they could escape as a team. Just, love it. Still chokes me up to this day when I think about the scene. Just awesome, hands down.

When the Ewoks blow the horns and attack the Empire: Again, it's probably due to me first seeing it as a kid, but the scene still gets me every time. All the heroes are literally on their knees, at the non-mercy of the Empire. And then there is that clarion call of the horns. I think it's the shot composition mostly that does it for me. You see it from the viewpoint of the rebels and the troopers. Just hearing this non-localized music, echoing through the trees. They all look around, equally confused about wtf is happening. You hear the call and response of the horns from multiple locations, clearly indicating "we got you surrounded." And then the furry little heads show up and just utter chaos ensues. I'm a sucker for "the cavalry coming to the rescue" kind of scenes in films, I'll admit, and while the cavalry were on foot, and they were furry, short feet at that, it was still an awesome scene.

The Entire Throne Room Sequence in Return: Not much to elaborate on this one. It's just wonderfully done. All 3 actors (4 if you count the two people both being Vader) doing a great performance. A dramatic struggle for the souls of a father and son, as tempted by the closest thing to the Devil himself in that universe. All of them brought their A-game to that scene.

When Han and Chewie first take the pilot/copilot seats in Solo: Star Wars Story. I don't know, maybe it's because the used John Williams there too, but something about that moment, where those 2 first work in the cockpit of that ship, just really gets me. I know a lot of people dislike that film, but I enjoyed the heck out of it, and the chemistry between Han and Chewie were high up there on reasons I enjoyed the film. And that moment, was just, filled with unspoken promise of awesome things in their future. How they would work so well together for decades, and form a life-long bond. I found it really great, and I remember just giggling to myself, and I'm not even a big fan of Han from the series. I'm more a Luke fan myself. But that bit was just cinematic joy to me.

That's about all I can think of, and beyond my own limit (there are so many to choose from). So I'll end it there. But what about you? What makes you actually LOVE this franchise? The moments that make you smile and feel good, and remember why you put so much personal energy into loving this franchise.

Yuthura Ban explaining how she came to loose her original purpose.
Kotor dramatically developed the sith/darkside and to see it explored way more and added a degree of sensibility and rationale to how it corrupts.

The Throne Room scene, for obvious reasons.

The Thrawn Trilogy, for opening my eyes to the wide world of the Expanded Universe, and showing me how much could be done in Star Wars beyond the movies.

Luke confronting Kylo Ren on Crait, for perfectly embodying how a Jedi should approach conflict. Halting an entire army, buying time for his allies to escape, and teaching his fallen apprentice one last lesson, all while fully committed to pacifism.

13 minutes ago, Underachiever599 said:

Luke confronting Kylo Ren on Crait, for perfectly embodying how a Jedi should approach conflict. Halting an entire army, buying time for his allies to escape, and teaching his fallen apprentice one last lesson, all while fully committed to pacifism.

Such a good scene and the little bit of humour with the end result was so fun.

The scene in rebels where Kannan gives his life for the rest of the Spectres, we knew it was going to happen but wow, what a way to go.

I have always loved the Millennium Falcon and always love the first time it blasts out of a docking bay in the movie but the scene where the X-Wings come flying in in The Force Awakens just gave me goosebumps. Something about the bringing space fighters in and having a dogfight on-planet and hitting First Order ships and ground forces was just very cool.

You know what?!
Vader in the corridor was masterful. I don't care that it was fan service it was done correct and left me salivating. Every single time I watch it I notice something else and by GOD is it excellent. Matter of fact i'm going to watch it again right now.

5 hours ago, Luahk said:

You know what?!
Vader in the corridor was masterful. I don't care that it was fan service it was done correct and left me salivating. Every single time I watch it I notice something else and by GOD is it excellent. Matter of fact i'm going to watch it again right now.

Another good scene and really showed us what cyborg Vader could do in the films rather than the extended media.

Vader (not as Anakin) is one of the most memorable villains from any franchise and medium around and it has a lot to do with how well he was done in the Original Trilogy. I particularly liked the dueling in Empire and Return. In Empire you just get the feeling he's toying with Luke the entire time (it actually reminds me of another duel in Potop where again you have one character as the obvious superior and he is just messing with the other until he's had enough), it's well acted and choreographed - and without the excessive flare (and god **** spinning - I hate spinning, it is NOT a good trick) we see all too much in newer films. The throne room is much the same but with what I consider probably the best acting everyone in the room has done (although admittedly I haven't seen too much of those actors from outside of Star Wars).

I also love the twist moments, the Father reveal is stupidly cliche now, but it wasn't back then. I'm a big video game fan so the twist from the first KotOR game was also really jaw dropping for me.

And speaking of video games, the entirety of KotOR2 could go down here because the game was just so good overall but special props to the reveal of the rebuilt enclave (the music in that one scene is amongst my top pieces from a video game) and your first encounter with Darth Sion aboard the Harbinger. I first played the game when I was eleven - while they got the atmosphere for the entire Peragus level perfectly creepy but without going horror movie levels, crawling through the Harbinger still gives me the chills today and I can't do anything other than giving Obsidian props for making such a stellar (and unfortunately deeply flawed and unfinished) game.

Also because I know the prequels aren't going to get much love I will give a shoutout to the opening sequence of Revenge of the Sith which is so far the only scene in a franchise literally called Star Wars that has even come close to representing the scale of warfare that would actually take place in a galaxy of countless trillions of inhabitants with tens of thousands of inhabited worlds.

Obi-Wan vs Maul in Rebels. The dialogue, the lighting, the camera work, the footwork, the build-up, and the swiftness of the actual fight, and how much it tells you about where these characters are in their heads. Perfection.

****, I'mma rewatch that right now.

I'm going to give one favourite moments from each of the movies and series in Star Wars timeline chronological order:

Phantom Menace: The Pod Racing

Though I find the Grand Prix and other car racing in the real world boring, I enjoyed every second of the Pod Racing. From the build up - with the banners being displayed and the commentary all backed by the incredible John Williams score - to Anakin crossing the finish line, this is my favourite part of the film.

Attack of the Clones: Mandalorian VS Jedi

Jango Fett going one-on-one with Obi Wan, both on Kamino and in the ring of Geonosis, was brilliant. Seeing someone - not a Force user - put up a fight against a Jedi Knight and, for all intents and purposes, win was very enjoyable.

The Clone Wars: Ahsoka Leaves

Honestly, I watched the series once and this was the only memorable moment. Jedi basically threw her to the wolves then, when she was found innocent, tried to welcome her back and she refused and left was great. It also helped me believe Anakin could turn on the Jedi in Episode III.

Revenge of the Sith: STAR WARS!

The opening crawl disappears, John Williams score changes but is just awesome as the camera shows the top of a Venator and two fighters start swooping past. Then POW there's a full scale war going on. So much going on the eyes don't know where to focus. Sorry opening to A New Hope, but this is the best post opening crawl moment I've seen in all Star Wars.

Solo: Imperial Army

Can't remember the name of the planet, but seeing Han among regular Imperial Army was great. The AT-ST landing and commence firing during the battle just added to the enjoyment. Was very World War trenches and a refreshing change from the usual look and feel of Star Wars.

Rebels: Darth Vader Vs Ahsoka Tano

If I hadn't of seen The Clone Wars this would have meant nothing. But I can honestly say I was on the edge of my seat. It was only a shame we didn't see all of the fight.

I will also give an honorary mention to the incredible Thrawn. What a leader. Had he been around at Endor and Jakku the outcome would have been much different for the Empire. Emperor Thrawn would have been awesome. Stupid Disney.

Rogue One: Darth Vader

Warning klaxon, dark corridor, nervous troops and suddenly a red light saber ignites. What happens next is wicked awesome.

A New Hope: The pursuit ends

Born in the 80s, A New Hope was my first experience if Star Wars, and the opening chase between the Corvette and Star Destroyer, trading shots as they go, before the Tantive IV is caught, boarded and there's a battle in the corridors will remain the start of Star Wars for me. Also happens to be my favourite part of the movie.

The Empire Strikes Back: Battle of Hoth

AT-AT's for the win! From the rebel trooper looking out across the snow and spotting the Imperial Walkers, to the Millennium Falcon blasting out of the cave hanger, this remains my favourite Star Wars moment. No other land battle in Star Wars compares to the Battle of Hoth. Also of note is: " Target maximum firepower " remains my personal most quoted line from Star Wars. Usually said as I shake the dice in my hands prior to rolling for the result of a shooting attack.

Return of the Jedi: Flying through the fleet

It might seem strange, but I always get excited as the Millennium Falcon and various star fighters weave through the assembled rebel fleet before jumping to hyperspace. John Williams score again plays a part here as it is an exciting scene that ( narrowly ) beats the space battle part of Endor ( which is awesome ) as my favourite Episode VI moment.

The Force Awakens: Takodana battle

I counted 11 kills for Poe Dameron. Not including the ground targets. Have I missed any? Seriously though, from the arrival of the First Order, to the Resistance flying in to save the day, this was a great part of the movie. I even stopped watching the foreground in order to enjoy the full scene through a few viewings.

Seriously, if I've not counted all of Poe's kills feel free to correct me.

Battle of Hoth remains my favourite of the favourite Star Wars moments.

On 8/16/2019 at 4:24 PM, Max Gaming said:

I'm going to give one favourite moments from each of the movies and series in Star Wars timeline chronological order:

*snipped for space*

No scene from Last Jedi in your list? Not judging you or anything, just noticed it missing from a list that even included tv shows.

And yeah that opening space battle in Revenge was really sweet. The advancement in the tech, and the various layers of objects really hammered home the 3 dimensional aspect of that battle scape, way better than other iterations of the same thing did. I love the space battle in Return of the Jedi, but even with the advancement in tech they had by then, and years of practical knowledge of how it will look, it still felt very 2D when it came to some of the sequences, and how they looked to the audience.

4 minutes ago, KungFuFerret said:

No scene from Last Jedi in your list? Not judging you or anything, just noticed it missing from a list that even included tv shows.

The Last Jedi was disappointing, and The Resistance too. That's not to say TLJ didn't have some good moments, but I found my tone too negative for a topic intended to be positive.

So in brief:

Enjoyed the throne room fight scene. Enjoyed Luke Vs Kylo Ren.

39 minutes ago, Max Gaming said:

The Last Jedi was disappointing, and The Resistance too. That's not to say TLJ didn't have some good moments, but I found my tone too negative for a topic intended to be positive.

So in brief:

Enjoyed the throne room fight scene. Enjoyed Luke Vs Kylo Ren.

That's fine, just wasn't sure if you forgot about it or not.

Wow, this is a tough one, as there's just so many, not only from the movies but from the larger franchise.

I agree with others that Luke's final act on Crait in TLJ was about as perfect as you could get. He played Kylo like a finely-tuned violin, and without actually being there was able to instill hope in a galaxy by affirming and embracing the "legend" that was Luke Skywalker, Jedi Knight. The fight in Snoke's throne room was also pretty solid, showing that while capable, Rey isn't quite on Kylo's level as a combatant as he's able to do much better against the guards than she was, and that really the only reason she ultimately defeated Kylo in TFA was that Kylo was emotionally unbalanced (reeling from the murder of his own father) and heavily injured by the time she claimed the Skywalker lightsaber (another cool moment from the film) and engaged him in a running battle that largely consisted of her fighting intelligently and doing what she could to keep away and further tire out an opponent who was far more proficient with a lightsaber than she was.

The lightsaber duel between Luke and Vader in ESB is another one, with their rematch and seeing just how much things have changed between the two; at Bespin it's clear that Luke is the inferior duelist while Vader is vastly superior, while by Endor the two are on rough equal footing in terms of skill and emotional mastery, with Luke no longer being afraid or as brash as he was at Bespin.

While I do have my criticisms of TPM, the final lightsaber duel in Theed is a work of art, especially once it comes down to Maul vs. Obi-Wan. I've got a clip I ripped from YouTube that is just the entire fight sequence from its start in the hanger to it's conclusion with Obi-Wan rushing to the fallen Qui-Gon's side, and was something I've watched numerous times and don't really ever get bored of seeing.

From AotC (another film I have criticisms of), seeing Yoda walk into the Geonosis hanger and largely take Dooku to school. To quote a buddy of mine when we saw it in the theater, "HE'S GOT A BEATSTICK! THE GAVE THE MUPPET A *expletive deleted* BEATSTICK!" Ewan McGregor's performance as Obi-Wan was also enjoyable, as you can see him channeling bits of Sir Alec's performance, only being a much younger man who's not been humbled by the tragedies we know are yet to come, still has much to learn, and has hope that things will turn out alright in the end.

From the RotS, it'd have to be the lightsaber duel between Obi-Wan and Anakin. I think it's one of the longest fight sequences captured on film, and sadly there's too many close-ins that you can't really appreciate the work that both actors put into the fight, especially as neither of them are professional stunt men (Ray Park is, thus why his Maul was such a ferociously capable fighter). It was cool to see Yoda and Darth Sidious square off, but it didn't have the same level of oomph that the Mustafar duel had. You can largely see on Obi-Wan's face that he's not trying to win such as he's just trying to survive long enough to find some way of eluding Anakin so that he can get back to Padme's ship and leave, and you can see that Anakin has just completely surrendered himself to his anger and allowing years and years' worth of lingering resentment towards the Jedi to consume him.

Rebels had some great moments, such as Kanan letting everybody in on the secret in Spark of Rebellion, to the introduction of the Grand Inquisitor, to his and Kanan's final match in the bowels of Tarkin's Star Destroyer. Seeing Vader just utterly dominate not only the Specters but also Phoenix Squadron was itself a great moment, establishing to newer audiences just why Vader was so feared by those opposing the Empire.

Solo, for being a fun popcorn movie at its heart (which is perfectly fine) also had a few really great moments, such as the first time Han and Chewie take the controls of the Falcon, and then Han winning the ship "fair and square" at the very end.

From Rogue One, the introduction of Donnie Yen's character. I'd been aware of the actor and just how capable of a martial artist he is for some time, so it was great to seem him get a badass introduction worthy of the man in Star Wars, as well as a pretty badass final scene as well.

The Thrawn Trilogy introduced us to a calculating and generally smart villain in the form of Grand Admiral Thrawn, who could take minimal resources and make it work to his advantage. He also wasn't infallible (something that later authors and a large number of EU fanatics missed), just very clever as well as being canny enough to know when to cut his losses and pull out rather than fight to the bitter end. Rebels did pretty good in capturing the character, giving him a cold yet palpable sense of menace while also showing that he wasn't obsessed with winning every time, and that the heroes had to really think outside the box in order to defeat him; even the greatest of tactical minds couldn't anticipate Force-wielding monsters out of legend showing up at just the right moment to crash his plans.

Again from the EU, the novel Scoundrels, when we see how all the various elements of the plan come together, especially Han's little side ruse that only gets revealed at the end and impresses Boba Fett with not only pulling that particular side gambit off but doing so right under the bounty hunter's nose.

There's probably a lot others. but I think the above is enough for now.

when Anakin gets his arm and legs chopped off and burned alive.

Kind of a allegory for the latest films.

On 8/1/2019 at 7:57 PM, Luahk said:

You know what?!
Vader in the corridor was masterful. I don't care that it was fan service it was done correct and left me salivating. Every single time I watch it I notice something else and by GOD is it excellent. Matter of fact i'm going to watch it again right now.

-This. Vader TPK rebels.

- Han in the Detention Cell

- Han chasing Storm Troopers

- Han: Ancient Weapons and Hokey Religions *Big Grin*

- Han: Hyper space fail in Empire.

- Nien Nub Laugh

- "Going Somewhere SOLOOOOOOOOO?"

Edit: Yoda taking out Senate Guards with a wave of his hand. ROTS

Really though one...

Luke meeting Leia and then facing the First Order and Kylo Ren alone was pretty epic... the build up to the confrontation with the music and the visual was just perfect. The emotions in those scenes are strong and still gives me goosebumps when I watch it again.

Kylo Ren killing Snoke is also one of my favorite scene in the saga.

If we are going into Rebels, both Obi-Wan vs Maul and Ahsoka vs Vader duels are in my top 5 best Star Wars duels.

Other than that... both confrontation between Luke and Vader (guess you can tell what is my top 5 now ) in Episode 5 and 6... the Asteroid Chase in ESB... Luke staring at the twin suns in episode 4 for what it represents, also Rey's solitary moments on Jakku... there is just too much... Han and Chewie getting in the Falcon in Episode 7 brought so much emotions too!.. or Han meeting Leia back on Takodana...