If you want to watch the Mission Impossible movies in order, there are two main ways: following the chronological timeline of the story or watching the films in their release order. Fortunately, the Mission: Impossible franchise mostly follows a linear story, which makes it easier to watch compared to other long-running film series.
The Mission: Impossible series began in 1996 and is based on the classic television series of the same name. The movies follow IMF agent Ethan Hunt, played by Tom Cruise, as he carries out dangerous covert missions involving espionage, global conspiracies, and high-risk operations.
Over the years, the franchise became famous for its intense action scenes and practical stunts, many of which are performed by Tom Cruise himself. Because of this, the series has become one of the most successful action franchises ever created.
This guide explains the correct Mission Impossible movies in order, including both chronological order and release order so you can choose the best way to watch the entire franchise.
Mission Impossible Movies in Order – Table of Contents
- Mission Impossible Movies in Chronological Order
- Mission Impossible Movies in Release Order
- Mission Impossible Movies Checklist (Printable)
- FAQ
Mission Impossible Movies in Chronological Order
The Mission: Impossible timeline mostly follows the same order as the release dates. Each movie continues Ethan Hunt’s story and the evolution of the IMF team.
- Mission: Impossible (1996)
- Mission: Impossible 2 (2000)
- Mission: Impossible III (2006)
- Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol (2011)
- Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation (2015)
- Mission: Impossible – Fallout (2018)
- Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One (2023)
Unlike many franchises that reboot their storylines, the Mission: Impossible films build directly on previous events. Characters, alliances, and threats introduced in earlier films often return later in the series.
Mission Impossible Movies in Release Order
Release order is also the best way to watch the Mission Impossible movies in order, especially for first-time viewers.
- Mission: Impossible (1996)
- Mission: Impossible 2 (2000)
- Mission: Impossible III (2006)
- Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol (2011)
- Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation (2015)
- Mission: Impossible – Fallout (2018)
- Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One (2023)
The later films in the franchise are often praised for their action choreography and practical stunt work. Movies like Ghost Protocol, Rogue Nation, and Fallout are widely considered some of the best modern action films.
Mission Impossible Movies Checklist (Printable)
This checklist helps you track every Mission: Impossible movie while watching the series.
- Mission: Impossible (1996)
- Mission: Impossible 2 (2000)
- Mission: Impossible III (2006)
- Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol (2011)
- Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation (2015)
- Mission: Impossible – Fallout (2018)
- Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One (2023)
If you want to track your progress while watching the series, download the printable checklist below.
Download Mission Impossible Movies Checklist (PDF)
FAQ
How many Mission Impossible movies are there?
There are currently seven Mission: Impossible movies, starting in 1996 and continuing with Dead Reckoning Part One in 2023.
Do the Mission Impossible movies follow the same story?
Yes. While each film focuses on a different mission, the story continues with the same characters and the development of Ethan Hunt and the IMF team.
Which Mission Impossible movie is the best?
Many fans consider Mission: Impossible – Fallout (2018) the best movie in the series because of its action sequences and storytelling.
For more information about the Mission: Impossible franchise, you can visit the official Mission Impossible movie page .
Final Thoughts
The Mission: Impossible franchise remains one of the most successful action series ever created. Watching the Mission Impossible movies in order allows viewers to follow Ethan Hunt’s journey and see how the IMF missions evolve across the films.
Whether you watch the films in chronological order or release order, this guide gives you the best way to experience the full Mission: Impossible timeline.