May the fourth be with you: 20 of our favorite moments from the Star Wars franchise

Episode I: Darth Maul versus Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon

Darth Maul is one of the most respected villains in the Star Wars universe, and his presence in The Phantom Menace is one of the best things about the film. In particular, his fight sequence with Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon is one for the history books. Not only is it one of the first lightsaber battles with advanced CGI, but it’s one of those moments that reminds fans why they adore Obi-Wan Kenobi.

Watching Liam Neeson play Qui-Gon is also amazing, even if he meets his end during this particular scene. But hey, that makes it all the more intense and epic. And Obi-Wan’s reaction to his mentor’s death is unforgettable. That’s one Jedi you don’t want to cross.

Episode II: The Jedi arrive at the Petranaki Arena

When Count Dooku captures Obi-Wan, Anakin and Padmé, he brings them to the Petranaki Arena to be executed. Things are looking grim for the trio as they’re chained to pillars and pursued by a number of dangerous creatures. They manage to hold these beasts off, but just barely.

Then the Jedi arrive, and the tides of battle turn. The minute Mace Windu appears, purple lightsaber aimed at Count Dooku, viewers know an epic battle is coming. “This party’s over,” he tells the Sith Lord, as the Jedi draw their lightsabers and begin to take out his men.

Unfortunately, the clones Dooku unveils vastly outnumber the Jedi Order. Yoda saves them just in time, destroying many of the clones in the process. It’s one of the more action packed sequences in the prequel trilogy, and it’s one of our favorites.