OrderToWatch

Back to the Future watch order

Back to the Future movies in order, by release and rating. Updated October 20, 2026.

Watch Back to the Future in order: Back to the Future (1985), Part II (1989) and Part III (1990). Part II picks up the moment the first film ends and Part III picks up the moment Part II ends, so the trilogy plays as one story. The animated series (1991) is optional.

How to watch the Back to the Future movies in order: the full guide

All 4 films and series in the Back to the Future franchise, in release order and in chronological (story) order. The first in release order is Back to the Future (1985); the first in chronological order is Back to the Future (set in 1985 & 1955).

Release order

  1. Back to the Future (Movie, 1985): Marty lands in 1955; the place to start.
  2. Back to the Future Part II (Movie, 1989): Picks up the moment the first film ends; 2015 and an alternate 1985.
  3. Back to the Future Part III (Movie, 1990): Picks up the moment Part II ends; the Old West in 1885.
  4. Back to the Future: The Animated Series (Series, 1991): Doc's family's adventures after the trilogy; optional.

Chronological order

  1. Back to the Future (set in 1985 & 1955): Marty lands in 1955; the place to start.
  2. Back to the Future Part II (set in 2015, 1985 & 1955): Picks up the moment the first film ends; 2015 and an alternate 1985.
  3. Back to the Future Part III (set in 1885): Picks up the moment Part II ends; the Old West in 1885.
  4. Back to the Future: The Animated Series (set in Hill Valley): Doc's family's adventures after the trilogy; optional.

Common questions

What order should I watch the Back to the Future movies in?

Watch Back to the Future in order: Back to the Future (1985), Part II (1989) and Part III (1990). Part II picks up the moment the first film ends and Part III picks up the moment Part II ends, so the trilogy plays as one story. The animated series (1991) is optional.

How many Back to the Future movies and shows are there?

There are 4 titles in the Back to the Future franchise: 3 films and 1 series, released from 1985 to 1991.

How long does it take to watch all the Back to the Future movies?

About 16 hours for all 4 titles, counting every episode. The essentials only (3 titles) take about 6 hours.

What is the first Back to the Future title in chronological order?

Back to the Future, set in 1985 & 1955. In release order the first is Back to the Future (1985).

Which Back to the Future titles can I skip?

Back to the Future: The Animated Series. They are spin-offs, side stories or non-canon entries; the main story holds without them.