If you want to watch the Star Trek movies in order, there are two main approaches: the chronological timeline of the Star Trek universe or the release order in which the films originally premiered.
The Star Trek franchise spans decades of storytelling, multiple timelines, and different crews such as the Original Series crew and the Next Generation crew. Because of this, many viewers wonder what the correct viewing order is.
This guide explains the complete list of Star Trek movies in order, including both chronological order and release order.
Star Trek Movies in Order – Table of Contents
- Star Trek Movies in Chronological Order
- Star Trek Movies in Release Order
- Star Trek Movies Checklist (Printable)
- FAQ
Star Trek Movies in Chronological Order
Chronological order follows the timeline of events in the Star Trek universe rather than the order in which the films were released.
- Star Trek: First Contact (1996)
- Star Trek: Insurrection (1998)
- Star Trek: Nemesis (2002)
- Star Trek (2009)
- Star Trek Into Darkness (2013)
- Star Trek Beyond (2016)
- Star Trek: The Motion Picture (1979)
- Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan (1982)
- Star Trek III: The Search for Spock (1984)
- Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home (1986)
- Star Trek V: The Final Frontier (1989)
- Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country (1991)
- Star Trek: Generations (1994)
This timeline blends the adventures of different crews across the Star Trek universe.
Star Trek Movies in Release Order
For most viewers, the best way to watch the Star Trek movies in order is the original release order.
- Star Trek: The Motion Picture (1979)
- Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan (1982)
- Star Trek III: The Search for Spock (1984)
- Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home (1986)
- Star Trek V: The Final Frontier (1989)
- Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country (1991)
- Star Trek: Generations (1994)
- Star Trek: First Contact (1996)
- Star Trek: Insurrection (1998)
- Star Trek: Nemesis (2002)
- Star Trek (2009)
- Star Trek Into Darkness (2013)
- Star Trek Beyond (2016)
Watching the movies in release order lets you follow the evolution of the Star Trek universe as audiences experienced it over the decades.
Star Trek Movies Checklist (Printable)
This checklist helps you track every Star Trek film while watching the series.
- Star Trek: The Motion Picture (1979)
- Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan (1982)
- Star Trek III: The Search for Spock (1984)
- Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home (1986)
- Star Trek V: The Final Frontier (1989)
- Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country (1991)
- Star Trek: Generations (1994)
- Star Trek: First Contact (1996)
- Star Trek: Insurrection (1998)
- Star Trek: Nemesis (2002)
- Star Trek (2009)
- Star Trek Into Darkness (2013)
- Star Trek Beyond (2016)
Download printable checklist (PDF):
Download Star Trek Movies Checklist (PDF)
If you want to keep track while watching the series, download the printable Star Trek movies checklist above. Many fans use it as a simple watch guide for the entire Star Trek timeline.
FAQ
What is the best order to watch the Star Trek movies?
Most viewers prefer watching the Star Trek films in release order. It introduces characters and story arcs gradually and avoids timeline confusion.
Are the new Star Trek movies a reboot?
Yes. The films starting with Star Trek (2009) take place in an alternate timeline often referred to as the Kelvin Timeline.
Do I need to watch the Star Trek TV series first?
No. While the movies are connected to the TV series, they can still be enjoyed independently.
Final Thoughts
The Star Trek universe is one of the most influential science fiction franchises ever created. Watching the Star Trek movies in order helps viewers understand how the story evolved across different generations of characters.
Whether you choose chronological order or release order, this guide provides a clear roadmap to enjoy every Star Trek film.
You can also check the official Star Trek film list on
Paramount’s official Star Trek page.