Great movie trilogies are somewhat magical. Usually, you have a richer, deeper, and more rewarding tale that works across all three rather than any one movie being able to manage such depth. Not every trilogy manages to cross the finish line—some fizzle, some lose their charm—but a few can keep it going from start to finish. Here’s a list of the 10 greatest trilogies that have ever been made and are still strong after an indefinite number of viewings.
10. Toy Story Trilogy
Pixar’s Toy Story is more than just talking toys—it’s the pangs of growing up, the pain of saying goodbye, and the joy of holding on to memories that stay with you. Over three movies, Woody, Buzz, and the rest provided us with laughter, tears, and heartache. When Andy pulls away in Toy Story 3, it’s not only his childhood you see disappear—it’s yours.
9. Planet of the Apes Trilogy
The revitalized Planet of the Apes (Rise, Dawn, War) might have been a cash-in prequel franchise, but what it ended up being was one of the most emotionally resonant sci-fi epics of the century. Featuring breathtaking motion capture performances from Andy Serkis and surprisingly complex storytelling, these movies probe at humanity, morality, and the will to survive—with apes at the heart of it all.
8. Kung Fu Panda Trilogy
It might have begun life as a family comedy centered on a clumsy panda, but Kung Fu Panda revealed it had considerably more to it than slapstick. Jack Black’s Po experiences actual loss, discovers his niche in the universe, and provides awe-inspiring martial arts battles. Even the “weaker” third installment ties the series up in a sentimental fashion—and the animation is first-rate throughout.
7. Indiana Jones Trilogy
Before the fourth film ever existed, Indiana Jones was the gold standard of action-adventure. Harrison Ford’s whip-carrying archaeologist provided us with ancient temples, last-second escapes, and just enough sarcasm. Raiders of the Lost Ark and The Last Crusade are classics for the ages, and Temple of Doom—love it or loathe it—still has an adventure wallop.
6. The Godfather Trilogy
Few film trilogies have had such an impact on cinema as The Godfather. The first two are generally regarded as masterpieces, revolutionizing the crime genre and American filmmaking as a whole. Although the third installment isn’t regarded with quite the same esteem, it does bring the Corleone saga to a bittersweet conclusion, solidifying the trilogy’s status.
5. Back to the Future Trilogy
Marty McFly and Doc Brown’s time-traveling adventures continue to be endlessly enjoyable. Each installment spins a new turn—whether the ’50s, the future, or the Wild West—yet retains the same humor, heart, and vitality that made the original a classic. Years later, they still exist as lightning-in-a-bottle fun.
4. The Dark Knight Trilogy
Christopher Nolan’s Dark Knight movies took the superhero genre to new heights of realism without sacrificing comic book values. Christian Bale’s Batman and Heath Ledger’s unforgettable Clown Prince of Crime brought the series to life, but what really lingers is Nolan’s emphasis on Bruce Wayne as a human being before a hero.
3. Star Wars Original Trilogy
The original Star Wars movies did not merely launch a sci-fi epic—they redefined popular culture. Lightsabers and space combat, Vader’s heavy breathing—these films entered our shared vocabulary. A New Hope, The Empire Strikes Back, and Return of the Jedi remain the standard for grand, imaginative storytelling.
2. The Lord of the Rings Trilogy
Peter Jackson’s version of Tolkien’s fantasy epic is a monumental undertaking. Shot back-to-back and filled with unforgettable performances, sweeping vistas, and Howard Shore’s soaring score, The Lord of the Rings raised the bar for films telling stories. Few trilogies have ever seemed so finished—or so epic.
1. The Ultimate Trilogy Face-Off
So which one’s the best—The Lord of the Rings or Star Wars? It’s all a matter of opinion. Some tip the scale in favor of Jackson’s impeccable fantasy epic, some for Lucas’s culture-defining space opera. The truth? Both of them deserve top spot for different reasons—one for audacious cinematic craftsmanship, the other for forever revolutionizing the way we watch films.
Honorable mention: The Cornetto Trilogy for intelligent comedy, The Bourne Trilogy for rescuing spy action, and Captain America for excellent superhero narrative. But a good trilogy isn’t simply three good movies—it’s an experience worth investing in, characters to root for, and an ending that feels justified. The best linger in your mind long after the credits roll, regardless of how many times you’ve watched them.