Star Wars – History, Characters, Films, Series & Collectibles
A film no studio believed in. Forty-nine years later, Star Wars is back in cinemas and preparing for its 50th anniversary. Here is the history, the characters, what is coming, and what is worth owning in Star Wars collectibles.
Techbox, Thessaloniki
The history: the film nobody believed in
In 1977 George Lucas released a science-fiction film the studios considered doomed. He believed so little in its commercial prospects that he gave up his director's fee in exchange for the merchandising rights.
It was arguably the most profitable decision in the history of cinema. Star Wars products have earned more than the films themselves – and they are the reason merchandising became an industry.
Why this matters to collectors: Star Wars invented the modern collectible. Kenner's 1978 figures are now among the most valuable toys in the world. And the logic has not changed: every new series brings a fresh wave.
What order to watch them in
It is the most common question, and there is no single answer:
IV, V, VI → I, II, III → VII, VIII, IX. This is how the world saw it, and it is what makes the twist in Empire work.
I through IX. Easier for children to follow, but it spoils the twist.
Many newer viewers came in through The Mandalorian without having seen a single film – and it worked.
The characters
Luke, Leia, Han Solo, Chewbacca, Darth Vader, Yoda.
Obi-Wan, Anakin, Padmé, Darth Maul, Qui-Gon.
Din Djarin, Grogu, Ahsoka Tano, Cassian Andor.
Grogu – The Child, better known as Baby Yoda – is the most commercially successful character the franchise has produced in decades. He appeared in 2019 and dominated shelves within months.
What is coming – and what just happened
The Mandalorian & Grogu – May 2026
Released on 22 May 2026, ending seven years without Star Wars in cinemas – the last film was The Rise of Skywalker in 2019. Directed by Jon Favreau, with Pedro Pascal as Din Djarin and Sigourney Weaver as a New Republic official.
Star Wars: Starfighter – May 2027
On 28 May 2027, starring Ryan Gosling and directed by Shawn Levy. Described as "Top Gun in space", it is set roughly five years after Episode IX – the first theatrical story to move the timeline past the sequel trilogy. It arrives on the franchise's 50th anniversary.
A change at Lucasfilm
Kathleen Kennedy has stepped down as president. Dave Filoni – creator of Clone Wars, Rebels and Ahsoka – has taken over as President and Chief Creative Officer, with Lynwen Brennan as Co-President.
What is worth collecting
- Figures & action figures: from simple play figures to collector lines with articulation and accessories.
- LEGO Star Wars: LEGO's longest-running licensed partnership – sets for children and enormous display builds.
- Funko POP: hundreds of versions, including rare exclusives.
- Grogu: plush, figures and small collectibles – the safest gift in the range.
- Apparel & accessories: t-shirts, mugs, keyrings, posters.
Gift guide
LEGO, a Grogu plush, play figures.
Funko POP, t-shirts, posters, gaming accessories.
Large LEGO sets, premium figures, replicas.
Keyrings, mugs, socks, small figures.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the next Star Wars film?
- Star Wars: Starfighter, on 28 May 2027, starring Ryan Gosling. It follows The Mandalorian & Grogu in May 2026, which was the first Star Wars film in cinemas for seven years.
- What order should I watch the films in?
- If it is your first time, release order: IV, V, VI, then I, II, III, then VII, VIII, IX. That is what makes the twist in The Empire Strikes Back land – it is lost if you watch the prequels first.
- Is Grogu the same as Yoda?
- No. Same species, different character. Viewers called him "Baby Yoda" before his name was revealed – and the name stuck. Products are sold under both.
- Where can I find authentic Star Wars collectibles in Thessaloniki?
- At the Techbox store (Al. Papanastasiou 100) and online at techbox.com.gr. You can order online and collect from the store with no shipping cost.
- Are your Star Wars products official?
- Yes. Everything is officially licensed and comes from authorised distributors.
