The Greatest Movie Trilogies Of The Last 30 Years

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Everyone loves a good movie trilogy! These three-part stories let you follow a long, connected plot with characters you really get to know. The format has been around almost since the beginning of film, and it really hit its stride in the 70s and 80s with iconic series like The Godfather, the original Star Wars trilogy, the classic Indiana Jones films, and Back to the Future.

Movie trilogies have been consistently popular with both filmmakers and viewers. Some directors even film multiple movies simultaneously and release them close together. Here, we’re highlighting the best movie trilogies from the last 30 years. This list includes standout stories across various genres—from superhero action and animated fun to gripping crime dramas, heartfelt romances, and grand fantasy epics—all released since 1995.

Okay, so here’s how I’m approaching this list: I’m only considering trilogies – and very specific ones at that. The first movie in the series has to have come out in 1995 or later. More importantly, the three films need to tell one complete story – they have to really connect. And as of right now, 2025, there can’t be a fourth movie in the main series. If a series doesn’t fit those rules, it’s great, but it’ll end up in my ‘Honorable Mentions’ section.

10. The Unbreakable Trilogy (The Eastrail 177 Trilogy)

Unbreakable (2000), Split (2016), Glass (2019)

M. Night Shyamalan approached the superhero genre in a unique way with his The Unbreakable Trilogy (also called the Eastrail 177 Trilogy). This series of thrillers has a clear comic-book influence, though it’s not always consistent in quality. It started with the beloved film Unbreakable, featuring Bruce Willis as David Dunn, a man who can’t be harmed, and Samuel L. Jackson as the intelligent but physically vulnerable Elijah Price. While Shyamalan originally planned it as three movies, it took sixteen years for the second installment to arrive.

I was completely hooked by Split when it introduced Kevin Crumb – James McAvoy’s performance was incredible, portraying a man with so many different personalities. It wasn’t until the final movie, Glass, that everything really connected, bringing Kevin together with the characters from Unbreakable. Honestly, the ending felt a little disappointing, but it did give us some memorable moments online! Even though it didn’t quite stick the landing, I still think this trilogy is something special in the superhero world, and a lot of people consider the first two films to be among M. Night Shyamalan’s best work.

9. Ocean’s Trilogy

Ocean’s Eleven (2001), Ocean’s Twelve (2004), Ocean’s Thirteen (2007)

Steven Soderbergh reimagined the classic 1960 film starring Frank Sinatra, creating a hugely popular trilogy that became iconic in the 2000s. While the 2018 film Ocean’s Eight features a character related to the original series – Sandra Bullock plays Danny Ocean’s sister – it doesn’t continue the main storyline, meaning the first three films tell a complete and independent story.

The Ocean’s films are pure entertainment – exciting, well-made, and full of famous faces like George Clooney, Brad Pitt, and Julia Roberts. They’re known for their memorable scenes, witty scripts, and focus on delivering clever, stylish heist stories without trying to be anything more profound.

8. Sam Raimi’s Spider-Man Trilogy

Spider-Man (2002), Spider-Man 2 (2004), Spider-Man 3 (2007)

I remember when superhero movies weren’t the guaranteed blockbusters they are today, and Sam Raimi’s Spider-Man films were a real turning point. They proved you could make a comic book movie that both dedicated fans and regular moviegoers could genuinely enjoy. Tobey Maguire was Peter Parker, and those films still hold up beautifully. The action was innovative for its time, there were plenty of genuinely funny moments, and at its heart, it was a surprisingly emotional story – all while clearly loving the original comics. They weren’t just good superhero movies, they were just good movies, period.

Though opinions on the best Spider-Man movie vary, Sam Raimi’s trilogy is a hugely important part of pop culture. These films are instantly recognizable and remain enjoyable to watch, even today, as they were major hits in the early 2000s.

7. The Millennium Trilogy

The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo (2009), The Girl Who Played With Fire (2009), The Girl Who Kicked The Hornet’s Nest (2009)

Although Hollywood has made two versions of this story with different actors, the original Swedish series is still considered the most accurate and best adaptation of Stieg Larsson’s popular Millennium novels. Featuring Noomi Rapace as the compelling hacker Lisbeth Salander and Michael Nyqvist as journalist Mikael Blomkvist, these films offer captivating stories, well-developed characters, and strong acting, arguably making them the best European film trilogy of the last twenty years.

The series’ popularity is largely due to the critically acclaimed novels by Stieg Larsson, which are considered some of the most important mystery books of the 21st century. What’s also impressive is that all three films were shot and released within one year – a remarkable feat that solidifies the trilogy’s place as a standout in modern cinema.

6. How To Train Your Dragon Trilogy

How To Train Your Dragon (2010), How To Train Your Dragon 2 (2014), How To Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World (2019)

By 2025, “How to Train Your Dragon” is notable as one of the few animated trilogies that didn’t keep making sequels – unlike some others, like “Toy Story.” While anything is possible, the franchise has moved towards live-action remakes, and the first one was a big hit, rather than continuing the animated series.

Dean DeBlois’s ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ trilogy is a heartwarming and visually stunning series. It centers on the friendship between Hiccup, a young Viking, and Toothless, his lovable dragon – characters designed to capture hearts and imaginations. The films take place in a beautifully created fantasy world, filled with memorable characters, incredible animation, and exciting action. It’s a timeless story about friendship, connection, and growing up, which is why it appeals to audiences of all ages.

5. Avatar Trilogy

Avatar (2009), Avatar: The Way Of Water (2022), Avatar: Fire And Ash (2025)

James Cameron’s Avatar films are often compared to Star Wars as the pinnacle of modern sci-fi action, though they haven’t achieved the same widespread adoration. Some argue the series, despite its stunning visuals, hasn’t truly left a mark on popular culture – but that’s simply not true. The Na’vi characters are instantly recognizable. While the third film does revisit some familiar themes, the Avatar trilogy ultimately masters the blockbuster formula, offering a visually breathtaking experience best enjoyed on the largest screen possible, even if that sounds like a familiar trope.

It’s well known that James Cameron intends to continue the Avatar story for many years, with work already underway on Avatar 4 and 5. However, the success of Avatar: The Seed Bearer (previously Avatar: Fire and Ash) will determine the future of the franchise. Cameron has said this film is meant to wrap up the story of the Sully family, and he’s prepared to end the series with it if necessary.

4. Before Trilogy

Before Sunrise (1995), Before Sunset (2004), Before Midnight (2013)

Richard Linklater’s Before trilogy is a remarkable series of three films, spanning almost twenty years, that consistently features Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy as Jesse and Celine. This demonstrates Linklater’s strong and consistent vision. The films offer a beautifully realistic look at a romantic relationship as it evolves over time, exploring how people and their perspectives change.

This series is beautifully simple and deeply touching, relying on brilliant writing and the authentic connection between Hawke and Delpy. While it doesn’t have the big effects or scale of many other films, that actually makes it a more genuine and impactful work of art – a truly sincere achievement in cinema.

3. Knives Out Trilogy

Knives Out (2019), Glass Onion (2022), Wake Up Dead Man (2025)

Now that Wake Up Dead Man is out on Netflix, Rian Johnson’s detective series is being hailed as one of the best movie trilogies of the last three decades. While there are no plans for a fourth film yet, the Knives Out trilogy currently stands out as a fantastic example of the classic “whodunit” mystery. It expertly combines clever, though sometimes elaborate, puzzles with beautiful scenery, interesting characters, and grand events.

Daniel Craig is captivating as the quirky detective Benoit Blanc, a role he seems to thoroughly enjoy. He’s joined by a fantastic cast of suspects, and their performances are a major part of what makes these movies so entertaining. Beyond the acting, the films also highlight the unique storytelling talent of writer-director Rian Johnson, who skillfully leads audiences through complex mysteries filled with deception.

2. The Dark Knight Trilogy

Batman Begins (2005), The Dark Knight (2008), The Dark Knight Rises (2012)

So far, these movie rankings have been based on opinion, but most film fans probably saw this outcome coming. Two series of films are clearly in a league of their own, and it’s hard to picture anything challenging them in the near future. Christopher Nolan’s Batman films – The Dark Knight trilogy – are considered his finest achievement and are often hailed as the best superhero movies ever made.

The trilogy isn’t focused on superheroes as much as it is on the human experience – the challenges, commitments, and sacrifices people make. Driven by compelling stories, skillful direction, and brilliant acting from stars like Christian Bale, Heath Ledger, Michael Caine, Tom Hardy, and Gary Oldman, these films are a true achievement in cinema and remain endlessly enjoyable to watch.

1. The Lord Of The Rings Trilogy

The Fellowship Of The Ring (2001), The Two Towers (2002), The Return Of The King (2003)

Honestly, was there ever any question? As a movie fan, I can confidently say The Lord of the Rings trilogy is just… untouchable. It’s a landmark achievement for Peter Jackson and everyone involved, creating three films that are pure cinematic gold. They’ve completely defined fantasy filmmaking for a generation, and I truly believe it’s not just the best trilogy of the last 30 years, but the greatest of all time. Every single film is a masterpiece – there isn’t a weak link among them.

The Lord of the Rings trilogy is remarkably flawless. Every aspect, from the carefully adapted story based on Tolkien’s books to the incredible scenery of New Zealand, feels perfectly executed. The films boast stunning visuals achieved through practical effects, a beautiful score, excellent actors, and memorable performances – all contributing to a truly captivating and timeless fantasy world.

Honorable mentions:

While these film trilogies from the last three decades didn’t quite crack the top 10 – often because the series continued beyond three movies – they’re still worth acknowledging.

  • The Star Wars Prequel Trilogy – The Phantom Menace (1999), Attack of the Clones (2002), Revenge of the Sith (2005) – A self-contained trilogy that serves as the opening chapter of the broader nine-film Skywalker Saga.
  • The Matrix Trilogy – The Matrix (1999), The Matrix Reloaded (2003), The Matrix Revolutions (2003) – Extended to a four-film series by The Matrix Resurrections (2021).
  • The Bourne Trilogy – The Bourne Identity (2002), The Bourne Supremacy (2004), The Bourne Ultimatum (2007) – Continued with The Bourne Legacy (2012) and Jason Bourne (2016), making five films total.
  • The Planet of the Apes reboot trilogy, or The Caesar Trilogy – Rise of the Planet of the Apes (2011), Dawn of the Planet of the Apes (2014), War for the Planet of the Apes (2017) – Extended by Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes (2024), a direct generational continuation.
  • Toy Story Trilogy – Toy Story (1995), Toy Story 2 (1999), Toy Story 3 (2010) – Widely regarded as a perfect three-act structure, but extended by Toy Story 4 (2019), with Toy Story 5 scheduled for 2026.
  • Guardians of the Galaxy Trilogy – Guardians of the Galaxy (2014), Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 (2017), Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 (2023) – A standalone character arc within the larger interconnected Marvel Cinematic Universe.
  • The Hobbit Trilogy – An Unexpected Journey (2012), The Desolation of Smaug (2013), The Battle of the Five Armies (2014)
  • The Pusher Trilogy (1996–2005) – Danish crime movies written and directed by Nicolas Winding Refn.
  • The Vengeance Trilogy – Sympathy for Mr. Vengeance (2002), Oldboy (2003), Lady Vengeance (2005) – Park Chan-wook’s thematically linked movies with no direct narrative connections.
  • The Three Flavours Cornetto Trilogy, or The Blood and Ice Cream Trilogy – Shaun of the Dead (2004), Hot Fuzz (2007), The World’s End (2013) – Edgar Wright’s action comedies connected by theme and shared cast rather than story.

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2025-12-25 04:08