Hayden Christensen Picks His Favorite Original Star Wars Movie & Disney Era Movie

Hayden Christensen, known for his role as Anakin Skywalker in the Star Wars prequels, recently revealed his favorite films from both the original trilogy and the newer Disney-era stories.

The actor, who has long been associated with the Skywalker saga, shared his picks during an interview, giving fans insight into the films that shaped his view of the galaxy far, far away.

Christensen named The Empire Strikes Back as his top pick from the original trilogy. The film, released in 1980, is widely celebrated as one of the best Star Wars entries and is often praised for its darker tone and complex character development. Critics and fans alike have highlighted its iconic moments, from the shocking revelation of Darth Vader’s identity to the film’s suspenseful cliffhanger ending.

Christensen’s appreciation for the movie seems tied to its emotional depth and the risks it took within the franchise.

For the Disney-era films, Christensen chose Rogue One: A Star Wars Story. Unlike the Skywalker-centered films, Rogue One focuses on the larger war between the Empire and the Rebellion, with a grittier, more grounded approach. Critics praised the movie for its tone, strong performances, and the way it explored smaller, personal stories within the galaxy’s epic conflict.

Hayden's heart is with the empire. #StarWars #RogueOne #DarthVader #AnakinSkywalker #HaydenChristensen pic.twitter.com/fMy8eOjZVc

— FAN EXPO Chicago (@fanexpochicago) November 24, 2025

Both films have left a lasting impact on audiences and critics. The Empire Strikes Back is often listed among the greatest sequels of all time, and its influence on character-driven storytelling in blockbuster cinema is still felt today. Rogue One, meanwhile, was praised for its cinematic visuals, emotional weight, and the way it expanded the Star Wars universe beyond the main saga, showing that risk-taking and fresh perspectives can still thrive in the galaxy far, far away.

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