Cinopsys
The Terminator series runs from 1984 to 2019 across six films. Release order is the simple way to follow it, and the first two films are the natural starting point.
If you only want two films, watch The Terminator (1984) and Terminator 2: Judgment Day (1991). Terminator: Dark Fate (2019) is presented as a direct follow-up to Terminator 2.
Terminator movies in release order
- The Terminator 1984
- Terminator 2: Judgment Day 1991
- Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines 2003
- Terminator Salvation 2009
- Terminator Genisys 2015
- Terminator: Dark Fate 2019
How to watch the Terminator movies
Release order works for a first watch. Depending on how much time you have:
- Full run: all six films in release order.
- Short route: The Terminator, Terminator 2: Judgment Day and Terminator: Dark Fate.
- Two films: The Terminator and Terminator 2: Judgment Day.
Track Terminator in Cinopsys
In Cinopsys you can build a Terminator 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.
I'll be back
Six films, one list. Start with the 1984 original and let Cinopsys keep count.
Frequently asked questions
What order should I watch the Terminator movies in?
Release order: The Terminator (1984), Terminator 2: Judgment Day (1991), Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines (2003), Terminator Salvation (2009), Terminator Genisys (2015) and Terminator: Dark Fate (2019).
How many Terminator movies are there?
There are six films in this list, released between 1984 and 2019.
Which Terminator movie should I start with?
Start with The Terminator (1984), then watch Terminator 2: Judgment Day (1991).
Do I need to watch all six?
No. The first two films tell the core story, and Dark Fate is presented as a direct follow-up to Terminator 2.