It’s time to fasten your seatbelts! We’re about to take you on a wild ride through the Death Race Saga. Every second of these movies will leave you on the edge of your seat, wanting more. This beloved dystopian action thriller has been split into two different continuities over the years: the original series and the remake series.
The Death Race saga is known worldwide because of its unique sci-fi tone and never-before-seen plot. If you want to watch the Death Race movies in order, this is your best bet. Keep reading so you can enjoy this masterpiece of a franchise in the right way!
Breaking down the Death Race Series:
However, before starting your Death Race journey, it is essential to understand the series as a whole. The Death Race series includes several films with unique storylines and characters. The series is known for its action-packed scenes, intense car races, and thrilling plot twists.
If you’re a fan of fast cars, high-stakes action, and gritty, post-apocalyptic settings, then this series is right up your alley. Prepare to be enthralled with the heart-pounding thrill of the Death Race series.
1. Death Race 2000 (1975):
The original cult classic, ‘Death Race 2000,’ released in 1975, is the first film in the heart-stopping franchise. It was a typical Roger Croman production that gave Paul Barter, our director, a chance to make his name.
With David Carradine and Sylvester Stallone behind the wheel, this high-octane thriller grips you by the throat and doesn’t let go until the finish line.
Set in a dystopian future in the year 2000 where the United States government is under a totalitarian regime and the most famous form of entertainment is the Transcontinental Road Race, a deadly cross-country race where running over pedestrians and children earns you a point, and the only rule is to survive at any cost. Some have a plan to stop the race, only to find out that it isn’t going to be as easy as they thought. It is a sarcastic take on society’s obsession with violence and entertainment.
2. Death Race (2008):
In 2008, nearly decades after its humble beginning in 1975, director Paul W.S. Anderson reimagined the original classic with a twist for the new generation, “where every mile is a battle and every finish line, a victory over death itself.”
Introducing a high-octane dystopian world where, unlike the original movie, this death race 2008 is not a nationwide race, America’s economy has collapsed, and the prison systems are overcrowded.
Prisoners are selected to compete in a deadly and brutal televised car rise with a chance for freedom on the line. Jason Statham, who has taken over the leading role, has been wrongly accused and sent to prison and is coerced into competing in the death race.
This reboot lacks comedy but makes up for it with double the action, deadlier competition, and new and improved CGI, making every second worthwhile. The film’s success made way for its sequels and solidified the Death Race Saga as a force to be reckoned with in the world of Action movies.
3. Death Race 2 (2010):
Set in the year 2010, this film explores the origins of the First “Frankenstein” Carl Luca (Luke Goss). Interestingly, who was seen dying in a race at the beginning of the first film.
We delve into his earlier life in prison, why he was sent to jail and later how he is offered a chance to win his way out by taking part in the death race.
As the race unfolds led by the ruthless Frankenstein, viewers are thrown into a world of action, violence, adrenaline, treachery and betrayal where we see alliances form and break and the stakes growing higher with each mile.
With its pulse-pounding action, Death Race 2 delivers the thrills that fans expect, but shockingly so. Despite it having a star studded cast including Sean Bean, Lauren Cohan, Ving Rhames, and Danny Trejo, the film did not receive the love the first film did, and was unable to build upon its predecessor.
4. Death Race 3: Inferno (2013):
Are Death Race 1 and 2 connected? Death Race (2000) is a reboot of the original cult classic. While Death Race 2 is a prequel to the reboot and Death Race 3: Inferno being a sequel to the prequel.
Directed once again by Roel Reine, the story of Frankenstein (Luke Goss) continues in this adrenaline fueled saga. As the race continues we see Frankenstein being pitted against even more brutal competitors than last time in a scorching desert in South Africa.
The film amps up the stakes as Frankenstein not only battles for his freedom but also for his life. As betrayal looms around the corner, Death Race 3: Inferno delivers the high speed thrills and heart pounding chills that keeps the audience entranced until the final lap. A massive improvement from Death Race 2, still having a long way to go but finally on the right track.
5. Death Race 2050 (2017):
A question that every viewer might have before seeing this film, Is Death Race 2050 a sequel to Death Race? The original Death Race 2000 is bought back to life in this immediate sequel directed by G.J. Echternkamp. Death Race 2050 takes the saga into a distant future, a world where death race has become a national obsession.
The film follows a group of rebels who are competing in the race planning to bring the whole thing down like in the original classic. Frankenstein (Manu Bennett) competes in the annual Death Race, unaware that his copilot is a rebel spy working to bring the whole race down.
Death Race 2050 took inspiration from the original classic but was not influenced by any of the remakes. The films blend of action and violence along with its retro aesthetic and outrageous characters makes it a unique film in the franchise appealing to fans of the original movie and remake movies alike.
6. Death Race: Beyond Anarchy (2018):
The latest installment of the Death Race franchise which is a direct sequel to Jason Statham’s 2008 Death Race. 2018s Death Race: Beyond Anarchy the fourth and final film continues the events of the 2008 film where the new warden of The Sprawl has declared Death Race illegal.
He has been tasked with taking out Frankenstein, the prison’s Death Race champion and king he sends Connor Gibson (Zach McGowan) to take down Frankenstein (Velislav Pavlov). A group of racers compete in a deadlier race with an even more lethal and treacherous landscape for their freedom captivating fans everywhere.
This new cast delivers pulse pounding action and intense thrills breathing new life into the series with new and innovative twists on the Death Race concept. The film proved to be a significant and worthy addition in the franchise so it will no doubt be a good watch but as this movie marked the end of the long franchise some might say that the final film didn’t feel big enough to mark the ending of this legendary franchise.
The Death Race Saga:
The 2008 movie titled “Death Race” is an excellent place to start if you’re new to the Death Race series. This film acts as a reboot of the first “Death Race 2000” movie from 1975 and sets the stage for the later sequels. In Death Race, you’ll meet the iconic character of Frankenstein, a legendary racer with a mysterious past.
The film introduces you to the violent world of the Death Race, where prisoners compete in a lethal race to win their freedom. “Death Race” establishes the tone for the remainder of the series with its grim, apocalyptic atmosphere, jaw-dropping stunts, and fast-paced deadly car chases.
Continuing the Excitement:
As you go through the Death Race series, in each film, you will encounter heated rivalries and heart-pounding action. The sequels, like “Death Race 2” and “Death Race: Inferno,” expand on the original film’s premise while introducing new characters and challenges.
These films explore complexities of the races and the deadly challenges faced by the competitors as they go deeper into the Death Race universe. Not only will you see fierce battles between competitors, but you’ll also see how harsh the competition is.
The Death Race Expanded Universe:
Lastly, you may be interested in exploring the Death Race expanded universe, which includes spin-offs, standalone movies, crossover events, and other media that add depth and excitement to the overall franchise.
Spin-offs and Standalone Movies:
If you’re on the hunt for more action-packed Death Race Scenes, you’ll be happy to hear that there are standalone and spin-off films that dive more into the adrenaline fueled world of the Death Race. These movies may not be part of the main series, but these films can still pack a punch because of their thrilling action scenes, fast-paced pursuits, and heart stopping races.
You can also learn more about the past of specific characters in some of these stand-alone films, which will help you understand their motivations and the circumstances that brought them to the deadly racetrack. Others might present entirely new characters and narratives, offering fresh perspectives and plot twists that will keep you gripped. These stand-alone films and spin-offs are fantastic ways to get immersed in the Death Race universe, exploring new sides of the dystopian world and encountering even more death-defying challenges.
Expanding Universes:
The Death Race franchise has branched out into other forms of media besides movies, such as crossover events and tie-ins with various genres. Comic books, novels, and video games that take the Death Race experience outside of the movie theater, which you can enjoy!
In addition to offering you additional insights about the characters and their exploits, these multimedia extensions can also provide you alternate storylines and scenarios that enhance the original film series. In addition, you may come across crossover events when you’re favorite Death Race characters meet characters from other fictional worlds, making thrilling and surprising mash ups possible that will make you want more. The Death Race universe will always continue to captivate and entertain you in various ways that go beyond the concept of a deadly race, thanks to these multiple media platforms.
How to Watch Death Race Movies in Order?
Here’s a list that will help you watch the Death Race movies in order:
- Death Race 2000 (1975)
- Death Race (2008)
- Death Race 2 (2010)
- Death Race 3: Inferno (2013)
- Death Race 2050 (2017)
- Death Race: Beyond Anarchy (2018)
Chronological Order vs. Release Order:
When watching the Death Race saga, you might have to choose between watching the Death Race films in the order they were released and watching the Death Race in chronological order of the events within the fictional universe. If you watch the films in chronological order you will experience the events as they unfold inside the story’s timeline, which makes for a more seamless and immersive viewing experience.
However, if you watch the series in the order that it was released, you can see how it was developed and how it evolved in each film and also see It in the way it was presented to the audience, taking into account any changes or improvements made in the later installments.
Critical Reception and Cultural Influence:
After the release of the Death Race movies, they received a mixed critical reception, with some praising the over-the-top action and thrilling car chases, while others criticized the film for their violence and lack of depth. Despite the mixed reviews, the Death Race movies have developed a strong cult following and have had a significant influence on popular culture.
Reviews and Box Office Performance:
The Death Race movies have consistently performed well at the box office, with each installment earning solid returns. The action-packed sequences and adrenaline-pumping races have resonated with audiences, making the movies a popular choice for fans of the genre. While critical reviews have been mixed, the box office performance of the Death Race movies clearly demonstrates their appeal to audiences looking for high-octane thrills and excitement.
The Death Race Legacy:
In the action movie genre, the Death Race films have had a major impact. Numerous video games, merchandise, and even a theme park ride have been influenced by the brand. The iconic Death Race cars and intense rivalry have come to represent fast-paced, high-stakes entertainment. The Death Race films’ legacy lives on, and action movie fans and thrill-seekers alike still consider the franchise as a must-watch.
To sum up, all Death Race movies have had a significant influence on popular culture and the film business. The franchise’s box office performance and cultural impact have solidified its place in action movie history. The high-power action, intense car chases, and daring stunts have solidified the Death Race movies as a thrilling and enduring series that continues to captivate audiences around the world.
Behind the Scenes of Death Race:
Despite the seemingly straightforward nature of the Death Race movies, there is a lot that goes on behind the scenes to bring these thrilling and chilling stories to life. From the stunts to the special effects, the making of a Death Race movie is a fascinating process that is worth delving into.
The Making of a Death Race Movie:
When it comes to making a Death Race movie, the stakes are high as the filmmakers strive to create a heart-pounding, adrenaline-fueled experience for the audience. The stunts involved in the Death Race movies are some of the most daring in the industry, with skilled stunt performers pushing the limits to deliver jaw-dropping action sequences. The special effects team also plays a crucial role in bringing the futuristic world of Death Race to life, using state-of-the-art technology to create intense and chaotic race scenes.
Interviews and Anecdotes:
Behind the scenes, the cast and crew of the Death Race movies have shared anecdotes that highlight the dedication and passion that goes into making these films. From the grueling training regimens of the actors to the challenges of filming in extreme conditions, their stories offer a glimpse into the intense and demanding production process. The interviews with key members of the production team also provide valuable insights into the creative vision behind the Death Race series, shedding light on the meticulous planning and attention to detail that goes into every aspect of the filmmaking process.
What is next for the Death Race Franchise?
To continue the heart stopping saga of Death Race, you can expect more exciting installments in the future. With the popularity of the franchise and the loyal fan base it has earned over the years, it comes as no surprise that the series is set to further expand and push the boundaries of the action genre.
Rumors and Confirmed Projects:
Rumors have been circulating about potential sequels and spin-offs to the Death Race series. While some of these may still be a matter of speculation, there are confirmed projects in the works that are sure to get your heart racing. You might soon see new storylines, characters, and, of course, high-octane racing action that you have come to love from the franchise.
The Legacy Continues:
The legacy of Death Race continues to evolve, keeping the spirit of the original film alive while also introducing fresh elements to captivate you. With each new installment, you can expect innovative twists, breath-stopping stunts, and intense action sequences that change the genre. The legacy of Death Race is in good hands, and you can look forward to the series maintaining its status as an everlasting favorite among action enthusiasts.
The Final Words:
Now that you have explored the world of Death Race movies and experienced the thrills and chills of the high-octane action and intense racing, from its humble beginning in 1975 to its modern iterations, the franchise has captivated the audience throughout
By watching the movies in order, you were able to follow the progression of the storyline and character development, immersing yourself in the dystopian world of Death Race. Whether you are a seasoned fan of the franchise or a newcomer looking for an action-packed movie marathon, watching the Death Race movies in order offers a compelling and exhilarating cinematic experience that will leave you on the edge of your seat.
As you reflect on the heart-pounding races, explosive action sequences, and compelling characters, you can appreciate the uniqueness of the Death Race movies and the dedicated fan base they have earned. You have now become part of this adrenaline-loving community of fans who enjoy the entertainment that the Death Race franchise delivers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the correct order to watch the Death Race movies?
The correct order to watch the Death Race saga would be as given below:
Death Race 2000 (1975)
Death Race (2008)
Death Race 2 (2010)
Death Race 3: Inferno (2013)
Death Race 2050 (2017)
Death Race: Beyond Anarchy (2018)
Are Death Race 1 and 2 connected?
Death Race 1 and 2 our connected in a way that Death Race 2 is a prequel to Death Race 1. In the starting of Death Race 1 Frankenstein is seen dying in a car race, in Death Race 2 we are shown Frankenstein’s earlier life of how he ended up in prison and later on as a competitor in the Death Race.
Is Death Race 2050 a sequel to Death Race?
Yes, it is the sequel to the 1975 film Death Race 2000. It takes most of its ideas from the first film but is not influenced by any of the remakes
Is Death Race 4 a sequel?
Death Race 4 is a direct sequel to the 2008 film Death Race directed by Paul W. S. Anderson.