From Fortnite to the Force: watching Star Wars with My Son

If you would’ve asked me a year ago if my son Jack would ever sit down and watch the Star Wars saga with me, I would’ve probably laughed and said, “Yeah, maybe in another galaxy.” He’s always been more into games than movies—and Star Wars just wasn’t on his radar.

That is, until Fortnite released a batch of new Star Wars skins.

Suddenly, he was talking about lightsabers, stormtroopers, and this mysterious guy in a black mask named Darth Vader. I saw a window, maybe even a hyperspace portal, and I took it.

A New Hope (for Movie Nights)

We started where it all began: the original trilogy. Episodes IV, V, and VI. I got to see him experience A New Hope, The Empire Strikes Back, and Return of the Jedi for the first time. Watching his face as Vader revealed his big secret? Priceless.

He asked a million questions. “Why is Yoda so small but so powerful?” “Why didn’t Luke just use the Force all the time?” “Wait, Leia is his what?!”

Sharing My Favorites

Now we’re making our way through the prequels, Episodes I, II, and III. And I have to admit, these are my personal favorites. I know they’re a little controversial among longtime fans, but I can’t help it. I love the drama, the battles, the politics, and yes, even the slightly awkward romance.

Watching these with Jack has been such a gift. We’ve debated over who the real hero is (I say Obi-Wan, he says Anakin), quoted our favorite lines, and stayed up a little too late just to see what happens next.

More Than Just Movies

It’s not just about the saga. It’s about the snuggles on the couch, the shared popcorn, and the look on his face when something epic happens. It’s about seeing a new side of him, curious, excited, totally invested. And it’s about reconnecting over something I loved at his age, too.

Sometimes parenting feels like you’re just managing the chaos. But these moments? These are the ones that matter. The ones I’ll remember long after the credits roll.

May the Force be with all moms trying to find ways to connect with their kids. Sometimes it just takes a little Fortnite to spark a whole new adventure.

Want to start your own Star Wars marathon with your kids?

Check out our Movie Night Must-Haves 

This site contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you click through and make a purchase, at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products I personally use and love. Thank you for supporting MamaTessaAtHome!