How to Watch The Fast and Furious Movies: Release Order vs. Chronological Order

The The Fast and the Furious franchise has captured the hearts of fans all over the world with its action-packed adventures, charismatic characters, and thrilling vehicular spectaculars. First released in 2001, the franchise has grown to include ten films so far and several spin-offs. If you're new to the series or looking to catch up, you'll need to decide how to tackle these films. There are two main ways to watch them: in release order or in chronological order. Each method has its own advantages, and this article will help you decide which order is right for you.

What is Release Order?

Release order follows the sequence in which the films were initially released in theaters, providing a chronological account of the franchise's development. This method ensures you experience the series as the audiences did and can appreciate the evolution of the story and characters through the lens of each film's progression.

Benefits of Release Order

Evolution of the Franchise: You can experience the groundbreaking action and character development throughout the series. Character Relationships: Witness the development of bonds and rivalries that unfold over time. Understanding the Progression: Gain a better understanding of the franchise's internal timeline and the bigger picture. Avoiding Spoilers: Certain plot twists in later films might be revealed if you watch chronologically, so watching in release order helps you avoid unnecessary spoilers.

What is Chronological Order?

Chronological order arranges the films based on the story's internal timeline, offering a more continuous and uninterrupted narrative experience. This method helps you follow the events of the series in the order they actually took place, providing a clearer understanding of the internal timeline and the story's progression.

Benefits of Chronological Order

Internal Timeline Clarity: Enjoy a clearer understanding of the internal timeline and the events that led to the current state of the series. Better Story Continuity: Experience a more cohesive narrative as the events unfold in the order they occurred. Prequels Shorts: If you opt for detailed background stories, you can watch prequels and shorts that fill in the gaps between main films.

Status Quo: Which Order Should You Watch?

If you're new to the The Fast and the Furious series, watching in release order is generally recommended. It provides a comprehensive introduction to the characters, their bonds, and the overall progress of the franchise as it progresses through time. However, if you want to experience the story in chronological order, you can follow the second list. Both methods have their unique merits, and the choice ultimately depends on your personal preferences and the information you seek.

Release Order (Theatrical Timeline)

The Fast and the Furious (2001): Introduces undercover cop Brian O'Connor (Paul Walker) as he infiltrates Dominic Toretto's (Vin Diesel) street racing crew.

2 Fast 2 Furious (2003): Brian travels to Miami to take down a drug lord, reuniting with Roman Pearce (Tyrese Gibson).

The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift (2006): Sean Boswell (Lucas Black) gets involved with the Japanese underground racing scene. This film takes place chronologically later in the series.

Fast Furious (2009): Brian and Dom reunite in Los Angeles to confront a shared enemy, showcasing their evolving bond.

Fast Five (2011): The crew assembles for a daring heist in Rio de Janeiro, marking a shift towards globetrotting adventures.

Fast Furious 6 (2013): Dom and his team are coerced into working for the government to take down a deadly foe.

Furious 7 (2015): The crew seeks vengeance for the death of Han (Sung Kang) while facing a new high-tech threat.

The Fate of the Furious (2017): Dom is seemingly seduced by a mysterious villain, putting him at odds with his family.

Fast Furious Presents: Hobbs Shaw (2019): A spin-off featuring Luke Hobbs (Dwayne Johnson) and Deckard Shaw (Jason Statham) taking on a cybernetically enhanced villain.

F9: The Fast Saga (2021): Dom confronts a ghost from his past, his estranged brother Jakob (John Cena).

Fast X (Coming Soon): As of press time, the release date for the latest film is still being confirmed.

Chronological Order (Internal Timeline)

The Fast and the Furious (2001): The series' starting point.

The Turbo-Charged Prelude for 2 Fast 2 Furious (2003): An optional short film bridging the gap between the first two films, showing how Roman got involved with Carter Verone.

2 Fast 2 Furious (2003): Brians Miami adventure.

Los Bandoleros (2009): A prequel to Fast Furious, showing how Dom and his crew assembled for a daring heist in the Dominican Republic.

Fast Furious (2009): Reuniting Dom and Brian.

Fast Five (2011): The Rio heist.

Fast Furious 6 (2013): Working with the government.

The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift (2006): The Tokyo racing story.

Furious 7 (2015): Seeking revenge for Han.

The Fate of the Furious (2017): Doms betrayal.

Fast Furious Presents: Hobbs Shaw (2019): The Hobbs and Shaw spin-off.

F9: The Fast Saga (2021): Facing Doms brother.

Conclusion

Both release and chronological order have their advantages, and the decision ultimately comes down to personal preference. Release order offers a comprehensive introduction to the franchise, while chronological order provides a clearer understanding of the internal timeline and story progression. Enjoy the journey and experience the The Fast and the Furious films in your preferred order.