If you want to watch Lord of the Rings movies in order, there are two main ways: chronological order (the Middle-earth story timeline) and release order (how the films were released in theaters). Below you’ll find both lists so you can pick the best viewing experience.
This guide shows the complete list of Lord of the Rings movies in order, including the Middle-earth timeline (chronological) and the official release order.
Quick answer: For first-time viewers, release order is usually the best. For rewatches, try chronological order.
The best way to watch Lord of the Rings movies in order is release order for first-time viewers and chronological order for rewatches.
Lord of the Rings Movies in Order – Table of Contents
- Lord of the Rings Movies in Chronological Order
- Lord of the Rings Movies in Release Order
- Lord of the Rings Movies Checklist (Printable PDF)
- Upcoming Middle-earth Movies
- FAQ
Lord of the Rings Movies in Chronological Order
Chronological order follows the story timeline in Middle-earth. (This is best for rewatches.)
- The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim (set long before The Hobbit / LOTR)
- The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey
- The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug
- The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies
- The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring
- The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers
- The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King
Note: If you want the “classic” first experience, start with the LOTR trilogy first (release order). Chronological order works best after you already know the main story.
Lord of the Rings Movies in Release Order
Release order is the recommended way for first-time viewers.
- The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2001)
- The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers (2002)
- The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (2003)
- The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey (2012)
- The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug (2013)
- The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies (2014)
- The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim (2024)
Lord of the Rings Movies Checklist (Printable)
This checklist helps you track all Lord of the Rings movies in order while watching the Middle-earth films.
- ☐ The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring
- ☐ The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers
- ☐ The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King
- ☐ The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey
- ☐ The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug
- ☐ The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies
- ☐ The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim
Download printable checklist (PDF):
Upcoming Middle-earth Movies
Middle-earth movie plans can change. This section is updated when official titles and dates are confirmed.
- New Middle-earth films (upcoming / TBA)
- Possible spin-offs (upcoming / TBA)
For official updates, you can check Warner Bros. / New Line Cinema announcements and Tolkien rights-holder news pages.
FAQ
Should I watch Lord of the Rings in chronological order or release order?
If it’s your first time, choose release order (LOTR trilogy first). Chronological order is best for rewatches because it changes the “mystery” and pacing of how Middle-earth is introduced.
Should I watch The Hobbit before Lord of the Rings?
For first-time viewers, it’s usually better to watch The Lord of the Rings trilogy first, then go back to The Hobbit trilogy as a prequel. If you’re rewatching, starting with The Hobbit (chronological order) can be fun.
Extended Editions or Theatrical versions?
If you love lore and slower pacing, go with the Extended Editions. If you want a faster, first-time-friendly watch, start with the Theatrical versions—especially for the LOTR trilogy.
How many Lord of the Rings movies are there?
In the main Middle-earth film lineup, you have the 3 LOTR movies, the 3 Hobbit movies, plus additional Middle-earth films like The War of the Rohirrim. This page is updated as new Middle-earth movies are released.
Why Watching Lord of the Rings Movies in Order Matters
- You follow the journey and character arcs without confusion.
- You understand how the Ring, Sauron, and Middle-earth history connect.
- You get the best pacing and reveals (especially in release order).
Final Thoughts
Watching Lord of the Rings movies in order helps you experience Middle-earth as one connected story. For the best first-time experience, start with release order. For rewatches, try chronological order to see the timeline unfold.
More Movie Order Guides
Official LOTR site: https://www.lordoftherings.com/