Cinopsys
Five films across more than four decades, one hero. The series is easy to follow: each adventure stands on its own, so the only real question is whether to watch in the order the films were released or in the order the stories happen.
Release order is the simple answer: Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981) first, then the rest as they came out. The one wrinkle is Temple of Doom (1984), which is set before Raiders. Watching it second, as released, works fine because it does not depend on the first film.
Indiana Jones in release order
- Raiders of the Lost Ark 1981
- Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom 1984
- Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade 1989
- Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull 2008
- Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny 2023
How to watch the Indiana Jones movies
For a first watch, use release order. Every film is a self-contained adventure, so you lose nothing by following the dates on the list above. A story-order marathon is a fun rewatch:
- Start with Temple of Doom, which takes place before Raiders of the Lost Ark.
- Continue with Raiders, then The Last Crusade.
- Finish with Kingdom of the Crystal Skull and Dial of Destiny.
Track Indiana Jones in Cinopsys
In Cinopsys you can build a Indiana Jones list, tick each film off as you watch it, and rate them as you go. A short franchise like this is easy to finish, and the list keeps your place if you pause between films.
Fortune and glory
Five films, one list. Press play on Raiders and let Cinopsys keep count of the rest.
Frequently asked questions
What order should I watch the Indiana Jones movies in?
Use release order: Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981), Temple of Doom (1984), The Last Crusade (1989), Kingdom of the Crystal Skull (2008) and Dial of Destiny (2023). Temple of Doom is set before Raiders, so you can also watch it first on a rewatch.
How many Indiana Jones movies are there?
There are five films, released between 1981 and 2023, all starring Harrison Ford.
Is Temple of Doom a prequel?
Yes. It is set before the events of Raiders of the Lost Ark, although it was released after it.
Do I need to watch the Indiana Jones films in order?
No. Each film tells a complete adventure, so you can start with any of them, but release order is the smoothest way in.