Cinopsys
The Matrix series is a straight line: three films released between 1999 and 2003, a fourth in 2021, and an animated anthology alongside them. Release order is the order to use.
The four films follow one story, so release order is also the order to watch. The Animatrix (2003) is a collection of animated shorts set in the same world; it is optional.
The Matrix films in order
- The Matrix 1999
- The Matrix Reloaded 2003
- The Matrix Revolutions 2003
- The Matrix Resurrections 2021
Side item
The Animatrix is an animated anthology released in 2003, in the same year as the two sequels. Its shorts connect to the story around the sequels, and you can watch it any time after the first film.
- The Animatrix 2003
How to watch the Matrix movies
Start with The Matrix and keep going. The sequels build directly on each other:
- Watch The Matrix first.
- Follow with The Matrix Reloaded and The Matrix Revolutions, which were released in 2003.
- Add The Animatrix after the first film if you want the extra material.
- Finish with The Matrix Resurrections (2021).
Track Matrix in Cinopsys
In Cinopsys you can build a Matrix 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.
Follow the white rabbit
Four films and an anthology. Press play on the 1999 original and let Cinopsys keep count.
Frequently asked questions
What order should I watch the Matrix movies in?
Watch them in release order: The Matrix (1999), The Matrix Reloaded (2003), The Matrix Revolutions (2003) and The Matrix Resurrections (2021). The Animatrix (2003) is an optional animated anthology.
How many Matrix movies are there?
There are four films, released between 1999 and 2021, plus The Animatrix, an animated anthology from 2003.
Do I need to watch The Animatrix?
No. It is optional extra material set in the same world.
Can I skip to The Matrix Resurrections?
It is a sequel to the earlier films, so it is best to watch the first three first.