40 Best Movie Series of All Time – Top Franchises to Binge

All the best movie series everyone has to watch in their lifetime.
BY
TV & Movie Writer
best movie franchises

Sometimes, you just want to binge a whole franchise with your friends, or do a marathon by yourself from beneath a big blanket. 

But with all the good movie series hitting our screens lately, from fantasy to action, thriller to superheroes, it can be difficult to make the right choice – especially in an era that loves sequels, prequels and spin-offs.

So, to make things easier for you, we’ve bundled up a list of the best movie series everyone has to watch in their lifetime. 

You only have to choose in what order you’re going to binge-watch them all….

1. Harry Potter

Films: 11
Time to Binge-Watch:
26h (inc. Fantastic Beasts trilogy)

harry potter and the philosopher's stone

Sit through eight magical movies and go on a spellbinding journey with Harry Potter. A young wizard is chosen to defeat Lord Voldemort, a dark lord who wants to rule the wizarding world, even if it means murdering wizards and muggles (a.k.a. regular people like you and I). You’ll meet fascinating creatures, evil and loveable characters, and a magnificent world you wished you lived in.

Once you’re done with the eight Harry Potter films, dive right into the Fantastic Beasts spin-offs (which connect to Potter in so many ways!). These popular movies have everything any film lover might want – magic, friendship, action, mystery, and much more. You’ll be begging your parents to go to Hogwarts by the end of it.


2. Superman

Films: 8
Time to Binge-Watch:
17h 

christopher reeve in superman movie

Just like any superhero, Superman has been embodied by many actors. From Christopher Reeve in the 80s, to Henry Cavill’s Man of Steel, there have been many famous adaptations for the big screen in the last century. There’s a total of eight Superman films (including Batman v Superman and Justice League), all promising a fun adventure watching the man in blue tights fly through the sky, fight off iconic supervillains, and save the day.

The caped vigilante is one of the greatest DC heroes on Earth, and his movies are some of the best on the planet (if you’re ignoring the worst movie sequel, Quest for Peace). So, if you’ve yet to tuck into the long legacy of Superman movies, now’s the right time.


3. Marvel Cinematic Universe

Films: 32
Hours to Binge-Watch:
60+h

the avengers: infinity war

The MCU isn’t exactly easy to summarize – there are over 30 movies to date! But if you like watching powerful superheroes get together to fight the bad guys, you’ll be satisfied. From the Earth-defending Avengers to the space-cruising Guardians of the Galaxy, Marvel films have a lot of action to give, but also a lot of heart. The MCU might also be the best there is out there for visual entertainment!

These movies can be watched in any order, but try to stick to the correct MCU timeline if you truly want to understand what’s going on. Tuck into some Iron Man action, swing through New York with Spider-Man, or have a laugh with Ant-Man. This franchise is so addictive (and occasionally silly), you’ll be begging for more by the end…if there even is one (more MCU movies are on their way!).


4. Star Wars

Films: 11
Hours to Binge-Watch:
25h

star wars: a new hope

A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away, there was a franchise that spawned a legion of die-hard fans, animated adaptations and spin-offs…one that your grandchildren’s children will probably still hear about in decades from now. If you’ve yet to binge-watch the Star Wars movie series, now’s the time, especially if you’re craving fantasy and adventure, action and sci-fi and epic storytelling. Indeed, this best saga blends all movie genres into one magnificent story.

It all started with a trio of rebels leading the fight against the evil Galactic Empire in A New Hope (1977) and it ended…with a trio of rebels leading the fight against the First Order (The Rise of Skywalker 2019). That might sound like history repeating itself, but all the action and lovable Star Wars characters in between make this movie series a must-watch.


5. DC Cinematic Universe

Films: 15
Hours to Binge-Watch:
35h

justice league movie

The DC Cinematic Universe doesn’t have a great reputation, but even if the list is shorter than the MCU’s, there’s still some fun to be had. Sit back and enjoy watching some blockbuster-type action and kick-ass heroes that could take on even the mightiest Marvel superheroes anytime.

DC was the first to have a female superhero headline her own movie, so it goes without saying that Wonder Woman is a must-watch. There’s Suicide Squad which is all-round fun; Shazam! which is a goofy spin on cliche superhero movies; Aquaman which is possibly one of the best of the bunch, and of course, Man of Steel and Batman v Superman. The DC movie list goes on, and despite the few flops in between, this cinematic universe is still worth watching.


6. Saw

Films: 10
Hours to Binge-Watch: 16h

jigsaw from saw movie

This one isn’t quite as fun as the others, but if you can handle gore (a lot of it) and you crave a dose of horror in 16 hours, the Saw movies are the way to go. In each opus, strangers find themselves trapped in a deadly game orchestrated by the mysterious Jigsaw, a sadistic man who thrives on making innocent folk endure hours of physical and mental torture.

Right when you thought blood and gore didn’t scare you, the Saw movies step right in to make you squirm and scream. From Saw (2004) all the way to Saw X (2023), each movie in this frightening franchise is a gruesome ride of twists, turns and torture. This saga isn’t for the faintest of hearts, but horror movie lovers will be at their happiest. Do you want to play a game? Dive right in.


7. Despicable Me

Films: 3
Hours to Binge-Watch: 5h 

Despicable Me

Horror and gore make you squirm? Want a movie saga that’s more lighthearted? To lighten up the mood, here’s a concept that can never go wrong – an evil mastermind softens up when his three adopted orphans help him steal the moon and start considering him as their father. Yep, Despicable Me is just as good and adorable as it sounds.

If you’re a fan of heart-warming animations, and have a family who enjoy it too, binge-watch this top trilogy for the ultimate relaxed night in. It’s rare nowadays to see animated movies that aren’t made by Pixar kill it at the box-office, but Despicable Me did just that with a perfect dose of humor and adorable characters.


8. Jurassic Park

Films: 6
Hours to Binge-Watch: 13h

Jurassic Park movie series

Dinosaurs living on a remote island sounds like a nightmare in real life. But the Jurassic Park movie series are so much fun, it’s hard not to wish you could catch a ride to the famous park at least once. While the original trilogy will entertain you most, the newest trilogy isn’t so bad either and definitely offers some improved visual effects.

Head back to the 90s to watch Jeff Goldblum and co. fight off T-rexes, and then step back into the future to catch up on Chris Pratt’s escapade with monstrous dino-friends. Jurassic Park is a thrilling ride with heart-stopping moments, and a memorable one at that, too. It never gets old – no matter how many times you see that dinosaur rampaging after that jeep, it will always give you the creeps.


9. Fast & Furious

Films: 10
Hours to Binge-Watch: 20h

F9: The Fast Saga

Perhaps this franchise has dragged on a little too long (10 movies since 2001, with more on the way), but if you love car races and over-the-top action scenes, this saga is for you. The story largely revolves around illegal street racing, but many dangerous elements invite themselves into each movie, making the ride more than worthwhile…especially if you can stand plots that don’t always make sense.

The Fast & Furious movie saga isn’t just non-stop action, but an emotional car-ride too, as you’ll grow to love the characters and envelop yourself in their love stories and personal dilemmas. Buckle up for super-cool cars and badass chases. This movie series is as fast and furious as it sounds, and offers some fun escapism to anyone up for a joyride.


10. Toy Story

Films: 4
Hours to Binge-Watch: 6h

toy story 3

Pixar movies never fail to make anyone cry, and the Toy Story series is no exception. You would think the concept of toys coming to life gets old, especially after four movies. And yet, this saga manages to renew itself every step of the way and stay fresh for new generations. Even as adults, this film saga is enjoyable, and for kids, it’s a fascinating and magical wander.

Sweet storytelling with comic and emotional touches, iconic music, groundbreaking animations and talented vocal performances are just a few reasons why Toy Story is so legendary. Sit through four fabulous films and you’ll be convinced your toys are coming to life when your back is turned. This movie franchise will have you gripped to infinity and beyond


11. X-Men

Films: 11
Hours to Binge-Watch: 26h 

X-Men: The Last Stand

There have been a few ups and downs in the fantastic world of X-Men, but the story of mutants living among us and training at Charles Xavier’s school still makes it one of the best movie series of all time. If you want something more mature, darker and grittier than the MCU, X-Men is for you – it also has great origin stories and spin-offs.

A good movie series that isn’t just jam-packed with superhero tropes like fight scenes and evil villains, X-Men also covers real-life themes like racism, social justice, and governmental control. With a whopping 11 titles, this series is a thrilling, action-packed adventure with a strong message of unity at its core, you’d be crazy not to binge.


12. Shrek

Films: 4
Hours to Binge-Watch: 6h 

shrek movie

Although Shrek 1 and 2 are the most acclaimed, the whole saga is a joy to behold for children and adults alike. Indeed, the story about an ogre falling in love with a princess kick-started one of the greatest animated movie series of all time. You’ll really let your hair down during this saga as you laugh along to the timeless jokes and groove to the epic soundtrack.

With iconic characters voiced by talented actors (Mike Myers, Cameron Diaz, Eddie Murphy and more), and a story that teaches great moral lessons, Shrek is superb for a night of belly laughs. Its international success is proof that goofy characters living in a parodic fairytale world can be just as fun as any other Disney movie.


13. Spider-Man

Films: 8
Hours to Binge-Watch: 17h

spider-man 2002 movie

Whether you prefer the early 2000 movies with Tobey Maguire, the Andrew Garfield collection, or the more recent installments with Tom Holland, there is no shortage of Spider-Man films for everyone. The story is the same: a nerdy teen is suddenly gifted with superpowers after being bitten by a spider. Even if people often debate which film is best, it’s unlikely you’ll get bored watching either of them.

Get entwined in a web of fun, action and love, and enjoy not just the hero-vs-villain factor of these films, but the goofy and cheeky innocence they bring, too. Once you’re done with the Spider-Man saga, come back to let us know which Spidey-actor stole your web heart, most!


14. Mission Impossible

Films: 7
Hours to Binge-Watch: 16h 

Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning

Looking for a genuinely good movie series to watch? The Mission: Impossible universe is so successful, that it’s still here over two decades later. Catch up on the seven movies (since 1996!) and follow badass spy Ethan Hunt as he’s tasked to go on life-challenging missions across the globe.

Stylish action scenes featuring wild car chases (that Tom Cruise performed himself), heart-racing gunplay, exploding helicopters, and dangerous jumps (out of a plane!) are enough to take your breath away when you’re stuck at home and in need of a crazy adrenaline rush. Mission: Impossible is certainly one of the most treasured action movie series of the modern era – tune in if you dare.


15. The Lord of the Rings

Films: 6
Hours to Binge-Watch: 19h 39m (inc. The Hobbit trilogy)

the lord of the rings film

Gripping storytelling and exciting sequences, Lord of the Rings is an adventure that will keep you at the edge of your seats. These films are some of the best fantasy movies out there. Scratch that, they are THE best fantasy movies, and we’d be insane not to include them on this list.

Filled with epic LotR characters you won’t forget, marvelous visual effects and enticing scenery and cinematography, this best saga is a must-watch for anyone who wants to discover an otherworldly reality. This film franchise offers an experience of a lifetime.


16. Batman

Films: 8
Hours to Binge-Watch: 23h (inc. Batman v Superman & Justice League)

the dark knight

A tale as old as time: Young Bruce Wayne walks out of the theater with his wealthy parents. *Spoiler* – they’re killed by a mugger, a horrific memory which acts as the trigger for Bruce’s thirst for justice and transformation into Batman.

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This film franchise is arguably DC’s greatest work and no matter which adaptation you watch, every Batman movie promises a dark, gritty and intense tale. The caped crusader is cinema’s greatest superhero, while the brilliant Batman villains have created unforgettable movie moments throughout the years. Christopher Nolan’s trilogy is probably the best example of an adaptation done right, and Batman & Robin is well…you might want to skip that one altogether.


17. Rocky

Films: 8
Hours to Binge-Watch: 15h (inc. Creed)

rocky 1 movie

You don’t have to love boxing to enjoy the Rocky saga. This movie franchise centers on the eponymous character, Rocky Balboa, played by Sylvester Stallone, a boxer who struggles to make a name for himself. When he is challenged by a big-time boxer, Rocky sees this as his opportunity to finally shine.

The Rocky movies have led to countless great sequels and the Creed spinoff series, which is testament to their quality and the strength of their fanbase. It’s a tale of heart, romance, bravery and determination that definitely deserves its cherished spot in movie history. Whether you’re in it for the fights, romance, or drama, this top movie series is guaranteed to be enjoyed by you.


18. Scream

Films: 6
Hours to Binge-Watch: 12h 

scream 1 movie

The Scream series began in 1996 and has been seducing fans of slasher movies ever since. Although each opus seems a little repetitive, the formula of a blood-thirsty killer going after a group of young people with a terrifying mask is still one of the most iconic tropes in horror.

A brilliant blend of teen drama and spine-chilling thriller, this is one of the best movie series, ideal for those who want a thrill on a night in. With more and more movies being released, it’s unlikely you’ve heard the last of it. Cuddle up on the sofa, grab a blankie, and sip on some tea, whilst catching up on this top slasher saga.


19. Planet of the Apes

Films: 9
Hours to Binge-Watch: 16h

war for the planet of the apes

If you’re a fan of pure science fiction and adventure, these will be 16 hours (and counting) well-spent. The franchise asks a simple question: What would happen if apes leapfrogged a few steps in evolution and became the dominant species on Earth? We now have nine films (almost 10), that answer this question in all kinds of exciting ways. 

One of the really fun things about this movie franchise is that it represents two completely different eras of filmmaking. The late-60s and 70s movies are a dive into the dated-but-charming, earlier sci-fi days. The more recent movies are far more modern and realistic-looking – seriously, the apes look like they’re actually talking. 


20. James Bond

Films: 27
Hours to Binge-Watch:
58h 

no time to die james bond movie

If you’re a human being living on planet Earth, you know who James Bond is. The British spy has been embodied by several 007 actors over the years, but at its core, the story never changes: a suave spy is tasked by the MI6 to help defeat evil masterminds. Whether you prefer Daniel Craig, Sean Connery, or Roger Moore, the options never end.

From the music, the sets, to the stunts and special effects, the Bond movies will always impress, even if some go way back into the 60s. We might have said Batman fought the best villains of all time, but 007’s nemeses are also legendary. Get your guns out and grab some popcorn (a lot of it), because this movie series is one of the biggest of all time!


21. Mad Max

Films: 4
Hours to Binge-Watch: 7h

mad max: fury road

For a lot of younger movie fans today, the title “Mad Max” refers to a single movie. That movie is 2015’s Mad Max: Fury Road, a rampage of a film featuring Tom Hardy and Charlize Theron, making their way across a post-apocalyptic hellscape. As you may well know, though, this 2015 triumph is basically a reboot of the same director’s work from the 70s and 80s. 

Back then, Mad Max was a similarly imagined trilogy starring Mel Gibson. Now though, we have a budding franchise (with two more films at least in the works) revolving around star actors and a depraved adventure in a desert wasteland. If that’s your thing, dive in. 


22. Bourne 

Films: 5
Hours to Binge-Watch: 10h

bourne movie series

A highly covert assassin – perhaps the deadliest in the entire world – is scooped out of the ocean with gunshot wounds and amnesia. Has there ever been a better premise for a spy or action franchise? 

That’s how the first Bourne film kicks off, and from there, we’re off on a tense series of adventures. Bourne crisscrosses the world evading his own former agency and trying to piece together the life he can’t remember. What really makes these movies great, though, is their style. Everything happening seems real in a way that’s not true of most action franchises. 


23. Predator

Films: 7
Hours to Binge-Watch: 12h (inc. Alien vs. Predator spin-offs)

predators 2010 movie

Action movies can get messy. Sometimes, you’re not quite sure who’s fighting whom and why. The original Predator takes a different approach and gives us a delightfully simple premise: Something is hunting people in the jungle, and a bunch of muscled 80’s legends (Arnold Schwarzenegger and Carl Weathers) have to go and deal with it.

A bunch of action heroes loose in the jungle against an alien…brilliant! The rest of the franchise gets a little more complicated, but that core premise of a ‘predator’ needing to be dealt with is always at the core of the movies. And the action is always a blast (and sometimes funny). 


24. Taken

Films: 3
Hours to Binge-Watch: 5h 

Taken movie

Liam Neeson (at the time, no one’s idea of an action hero) plays a secret agent whose teenage daughter is abducted while vacationing in France. Finding himself on the phone with the abductor, he makes a threat to use his “particular set of skills” to find his daughter and kill those responsible for her being “taken.” 

One of the best setups for an action movie franchise in the last 25 or 30 years, indeed. Were the sequels necessary? Perhaps not; repeating this storyline is kind of a weird move. But is it still fun to watch the dour, 6-foot-4 Irishman kick ass across Europe for almost five total hours? Absolutely. 


25. Alien

Films: 8
Hours to Binge-Watch: 15h (inc. Alien vs. Predator spin-offs)

Aliens vs Predator: Requiem

The Alien series is one of the most sprawling science-fiction franchises out there – especially with its two crossovers into the Predator-verse and the fact that there’s a ninth movie coming in 2024. And hey, why not? The Ridley Scott-directed original is one of the creepiest and most gripping space flicks out there. 

Of course, there are some ebbs and flows to any saga spanning this many movies. If you’re a fan of sci-fi that pushes the boundaries of horror, though, there may not be a better binge out there. Also, Aliens, the second movie, is considered one of the best sequels of all time


26. Austin Powers

Films: 3
Hours to Binge-Watch: 5h 

Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery

When you think about the best movie series to binge, you realize that most of them are anchored by secret agents or assassins: James Bond, Ethan Hunt, John Wick, Jason Bourne. These are all entertaining characters, but when you’re in the mood for something lighter, the spoof version will work. 

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That would be Austin Powers, the ‘International Man of Mystery’ portrayed by Mike Myers across three happy-go-lucky and hilarious Bond parodies. These movies are absurd and a little crass for some modern audiences, but they’re ultimately harmless, and to many, hilarious. 


27. Indiana Jones

Films: 5
Hours to Binge-Watch: 11h 

indiana jones raiders of the lost ark

One of the most best movie franchises of all time hardly needs an introduction. Just for kicks though, we’ll offer a one-sentence recap: Adventuring archaeologist Indiana Jones goes on adventures tracking down legendary objects, usually fending off Nazis along the way. What could be better?

These movies are the epitome of ‘adventure’. Whether Indy is tracking down the ‘Ark of the Covenant’ in Raiders of the Lost Ark or uncovering time travel in 2023’s Dial of Destiny, this famous movie series will always whisk you right out of your everyday life and into some treacherous but thrilling, far-flung location. It’s kind of what movies were made to do, right? 


28. Before

Films: 3
Hours to Binge-Watch: 5h 

before sunrise movie

Most well-known trilogies and franchises involve adventure, fantasy, sci-fi and the like. But who’s to say a romantic saga can’t be worthy of a trilogy? Not Richard Linklater, apparently. The writer/director took the idea of star-crossed lovers connecting repeatedly over time and turned it into a critically beloved series. 

The Before films are beautiful romantic movies that many can’t help but get swept up in. Beyond Linklater’s work behind the camera, this trilogy really works because of the chemistry between the two leads: Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy. You’ll be rooting for these two as much as you want to find love for yourself. 


29. The Matrix

Films: 4
Hours to Binge-Watch: 9h 

the matrix movie

The Matrix is one of the most influential pieces of art of the last 30 years. The idea that our world is an illusion and that advanced machines actually control humanity has inspired all kinds of imitations, and the characters are iconic. The movie itself is bursting with awesome visuals and crazy action sequences. 

That there are now three more movies feels like a bonus. Most will agree that films 2-4 don’t quite match The Matrix. But they do capture the same vibe and style that make the first film such a blast to watch. 


30. The Hunger Games

Films: 4
Hours to Binge-Watch: 9h 

katniss everdeen in hunger games: mockingjay

In The Hunger Games, children and teenagers are selected from various districts of a post-apocalyptic society to fight in a murderous competition in which they have to kill each other to survive. Katniss Everdeen soon becomes the face of a revolution, and every film follows her long and painful journey to winning these gruesome games.

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The film saga is full of adventure and action, all the while providing heart and emotion, as well as some bizarre fashion! If you’re in the mood for a marathon of magnificence, become a tribute and dive right into one of the best fantasy/sci-fi movies ever.


31. Kingsman

Films: 3
Hours to Binge-Watch: 6h 

Kingsman: The Golden Circle

The Kingsman series exists somewhere between Austin Powers and James Bond, part spoof and part spy saga. On top of this mix, though, it also has all kinds of cleverness. From clever little plot twists, secret rooms, to dangerous gadgets, the details of the Kingsman movies present like puzzle boxes. 

These movies are purposely ridiculous, and they’re not designed to make you think too much. But if you want to tune out your worries and watch a fantasy secret service protect society, look no further than these three (and counting) movies. 


32. The Godfather

Films: 3
Hours to Binge-Watch: 9h 

godfather movie series

This top movie trilogy is nothing short of epic. It even contains two of the most acclaimed movies of all time. If you’ve never gotten around to The Godfather trilogy, these films chronicle two generations of an Italian-American mafia family known as the Corleones. Al Pacino stars as Michael Corleone, who inherits control of the family from Don Vito Corleone – played by Marlon Brando and, in flashbacks, Robert De Niro. 

The first two movies are considered classics and have set the bar for all other mob movies, and even drama films. Oh, and Pacino, Brando, and De Niro are all incredible. Undoubtedly one of the best movie series of all time.


33. Ocean’s

Films: 5
Hours to Binge-Watch: 10h (inc.1960 original)

ocean's 11

This series is a little disjointed. The original came out in 1960 and starred ‘Rat Pack’ members Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Sammy Davis Jr. A reboot rolled out in 2001 starring George Clooney, Brad Pitt, and Matt Damon and inspired two direct sequels. We later got the Ocean’s 8 spin-off with Sandra Bullock. On top of that, there’s a planned prequel starring Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling. 

Disjointed or not, these are really fun movies that turn the thieves into the good guys. And you won’t see actors enjoy themselves much more than in this series. 


34. American Pie

Films: 4
Hours to Binge-Watch: 7h 

American Pie

Okay, so these turn-of-the-century teen comedies might have aged poorly. There’s plenty in the American Pie franchise that just wouldn’t fly today. Still, it’s a funny series, as well as a nostalgic time capsule for anyone who grew up in the 90s or early-00s. The era was one of summer fun on MTV, pop-punk and boy-band hits, and generally carefree vibes. All of that is packed into the American Pie movies. 

The series starts with friends making a pact to lose their virginities before heading off to college. It turns into a never-ending series of hijinks and embarrassing scenarios you almost can’t help but laugh at. 


35. Hannibal Lecter

Films: 5
Hours to Binge-Watch: 10h 

hannibal with mask

This series concerns a serial-killing cannibal used by police as a sort of crime consultant. The movies kind of got started with 1986’s Manhunter – a really good, one-off Michael Mann movie. Really, though, it was a fresh adaptation in 1991, The Silence of the Lambs, that sparked a franchise. 

In that movie, Anthony Hopkins plays the killer, Hannibal Lecter. And he did such a good job that he won an Oscar, despite having just 16 minutes of screen-time. That tells you all you need to know about this absolutely best movie series. Hopkins’ brilliant villain sparked a series of creepy, thrilling follow-ups (though he only came back for one sequel). 


36. Pirates of the Caribbean

Films: 5
Hours to Binge-Watch: 12h

pirates of the caribbean

The first Pirates of the Caribbean film is an epic adventure movie full of pure fun. Starring Johnny Depp as the inimitable Jack Sparrow, a legendary loon of a pirate you can’t help but root for, this series follows his swashbuckling adventures as he crisscrosses the Caribbean in absurd but thrilling ways.

The sequels have been hit-or-miss. They’re definitely sillier and bigger, though they’re still packed with pretty locations and magnetic characters (like the tentacle-bearded Davy Jones). By now, the franchise has kind of fizzled out, but there’s hope that a rumored sixth installment could reboot things a bit. 


37. The Hangover

Films: 3
Hours to Binge-Watch: 5h

the hangover

When The Hangover came out in 2009, it was a breath of fresh air. At the time, most comedies featured established comic stars: Will Ferrell, Ben Stiller, Owen Wilson, Vince Vaughn, and so on. The Hangover had lesser-known leads and exploded out of nowhere to become one of the biggest comedies of the 21st century. 

These movies really just thrive on a brilliant setup. Instead of showing guys partying at a bachelor party in Vegas, it skips the party and leads to the ‘hangover’ the next day – at which point two pals and the groom-to-be’s nutty brother-in-law have lost the groom. From there, it’s a non-stop laugh fest. The sequels follow a similar story (with mixed success). 


38. John Wick

Films: 4
Hours to Binge-Watch: 9h

John Wick: Chapter 4

We won’t spoil exactly how this franchise gets started. But let’s just say some evil Russians really piss off John Wick – the deadliest assassin amidst a whole underground network of killers. Once he is pissed off, Wick dives back into this underworld for four movies’ worth of heart-pumping, gun-fighting action. 

Shoot-‘em-up action flicks can be pretty same-same, but the John Wick saga is different. It treats gunfights like martial arts and crafts each scene like a piece of modern art. Throw in the convincing, athletic performance of Reeves, and you’ve got some of the most gripping action movies you can find. 


39. Bridget Jones

Films: 3 
Hours to Binge-Watch: 5h 

Bridget Jones's Diary

Unlike some of the best movie series listed here, the Bridget Jones saga doesn’t fall into a traditional genre (sci-fi, adventure, horror, etc.) Rom-com at its finest, this British romance-comedy trilogy began all the way back in 2000, and picked up again in 2016.

A franchise that’s hilarious and always charming, these chick flicks follow Bridget Jones as she navigates relationships and life in her 30s. It’s simple, but the movies are a seriously funny, heartfelt, feel-good journey. 


40. Transformers

Films: 7
Hours to Binge-Watch: 17h 

transformers 2 revenge of the fallen

Comics and toys gave us the Transformers, large cyborg creatures who transform into vehicles. Michael Bay gave us, well, new standards for what an over-the-top action movie can look like. What do you get when you put the two together? A mega-franchise spanning almost 17 hours, with more to come. 

This whole series is a ludicrous idea, but it has tapped into a large fan base and delivered quite a bit of on-screen fun. A saga of good Transformers fending off bad Transformers, sometimes with help from humans. And there’s a ton of pure popcorn fun along the way. 

Now more than ever, finding a movie that’s worth your time can be more difficult than climbing a mountain, but if you know where to look, it’s all easy breezy from there!

What did you think of our list of the best movie series? Let us know in the comments which film franchise you intend to watch first, and don’t hesitate to let us know if we forgot any other popular titles in here!

This article was originally published in May 2020.

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  • Maria Supplisson

    Maria is a TV & movie writer at Pop Tales, where she writes about Game of Thrones, Friends, James Bond and much more. She loves to blog about literature, TV shows, films and documentaries and is now working on a short film, while also translating articles about pop culture and celebrities for a London-based entertainment news agency. Unhealthily addicted to Game of Thrones lore.

    TV & Movie Writer
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Doc Beasley
1 year ago

You missed the biggest, longest franchise of them all… GODZILLA!!!