If you’ve been anywhere near a movie theater this past week, you probably saw the crowd: lightsabers in hand, Star Wars shirts everywhere, and fans lining up to relive the fall of Anakin Skywalker. That’s because Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith has returned to theaters for its 20th anniversary — and fans are so ready.
First released in 2005, the film tells the story of how the once-heroic Anakin becomes the infamous Darth Vader. It’s a movie filled with drama, betrayal, epic lightsaber duels, and the kind of tragedy that hits harder the older you get.
Now in 2025, the film is getting a new moment in the spotlight — and audiences are showing up in big numbers. According to Deadline, the re-release made $3.4 million in Thursday previews and pulled in over $25 million across its opening weekend, beating expectations and landing in the #2 box office spot.
An Epic Comeback
What’s drawing fans back? For some, it’s nostalgia. For others, it’s a chance to see the film on the big screen for the first time. And for a lot of people, it’s just about recognizing that Revenge of the Sith might actually be one of the best Star Wars movies.
In an article from GQ, the film was described as having been “ahead of its time.” It dives into some heavy themes — like political manipulation, war, and the collapse of democracy. “The movie’s not subtle,” GQ writes, “but that’s kind of the point. It’s a warning.” The outlet also praised the film’s emotional arc, calling it “an operatic, tragic masterpiece.”
Big Surprises in the Galaxy
At special anniversary screenings, like the one at the El Capitan Theatre in Los Angeles, fans were treated to some unforgettable moments. According to Entertainment Weekly, Hayden Christensen (Anakin Skywalker) showed up at the screening with a red lightsaber and greeted cheering fans. Moments later, Samuel L. Jackson (Mace Windu) made a surprise appearance, instantly getting laughs and applause when he declared, “Mace lives!” — a nod to the theory that his character somehow survived Episode III.
Jackson also told fans he’s still up for returning to the role if given the chance. “He’s too powerful to go out like that,” he said, according to EW. The audience at the screening completely lost it — and honestly, same.
It’s Better Than Ever (Literally)
This time, the film is back not just in standard theaters, but in new formats like 4DX — which means seats move, air blows in your face, and effects go off in sync with the action. According to StarWars.com, this is the first time Revenge of the Sith has been shown in this kind of immersive experience.
Fans are loving it. “It’s the most intense way to watch Star Wars,” said one moviegoer in a fan feature on StarWars.com. “When the ships flew across the screen, it felt like I was right there.”
Merch Madness
Let’s be real — it wouldn’t be a Star Wars event without cool merch. This re-release came with collectible theater items, and fans have been snapping them up fast. According to Cinemablend, Regal Cinemas dropped a Darth Vader helmet-shaped popcorn bucket and a matching cup. At Disneyland, they went all in with a Death Star bucket that fans are already reselling online for big bucks.
One fan quoted in Cinemablend said, “I stood in line for 45 minutes for this. I don’t even care. It’s awesome.” Considering how detailed the merch is, it’s not surprising fans are treating these items like treasure from a galaxy far, far away.
A Movie That Aged Like Fine Blue Milk
Back in 2005, Revenge of the Sith got a mixed reaction. Some critics liked it, others didn’t. But now, two decades later, the movie is getting a lot more respect. According to GQ, “No Star Wars movie has aged better.” They highlight how its themes about the fall of institutions and the seduction of power feel even more relevant today than they did back then.
Even The San Francisco Chronicle commented on how the film has influenced newer Star Wars shows like Andor and Ahsoka, saying the political undertones of Revenge of the Sith helped pave the way for deeper stories in the galaxy.
More Star Wars Ahead
The return of Revenge of the Sith isn’t just a one-time nostalgia trip — it’s part of a much bigger Star Wars comeback. With new shows still hitting Disney+, like The Acolyte and Skeleton Crew, and even a Darth Maul animated series (Maul: Shadow Lord) coming in 2026, the Force is still going strong.
And now, thanks to the re-release, more people are rediscovering the impact Revenge of the Sith had on the franchise.
“Watching Anakin’s fall again with a packed audience just reminds you how powerful this story really is,” said one fan quoted in StarWars.com. “It’s not just a Star Wars movie. It’s a tragedy. And it hits harder than ever.”
Final Thoughts
For longtime fans and people seeing it for the first time, Revenge of the Sith’s return proves that Star Wars is more than just a space opera — it’s a story that keeps evolving, generation after generation.
Whether you’re there for the lightsabers, the popcorn buckets, or the heartbreaking downfall of a hero, there’s something for everyone in this re-release. And if the cheers in theaters are any sign, this classic isn’t going anywhere anytime soon.
So if you haven’t seen it yet, grab your cloak, charge your lightsaber, and head to the theater. As GQ put it: “Twenty years later, Revenge of the Sith is finally getting the respect it deserves.”
