Are you a fan of action and espionage? The Mission Impossible film series starring Tom Cruise as Ethan Hunt is packed with thrilling stunts and intense drama. If you’re planning a marathon or just want to dive into the series for the first time, knowing the right order to watch these movies can enhance your experience.
To watch the Mission Impossible movies in chronological order, start with the 1996 original and proceed through the sequels released up to the most recent film. This way, you follow the storyline as it unfolds across the films and catch all the exciting developments in the plot and character arcs.
For those who prefer watching the movies in the order they were produced, you won’t miss out either. Each movie stands strong on its own, offering high-intensity scenes and memorable performances. Ready to jump into the action? Let’s take a closer look at each thrilling installment.
Mission Impossible Movies in Release Order
- Mission: Impossible (1996)
- Mission: Impossible II (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)
- Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part Two (2025) (Not Yet Released)
Mission Impossible Movies in Chronological Order
The Mission Impossible series follows the adventures of Ethan Hunt and his team. Each movie presents new challenges, stunts, and characters that keep you on the edge of your seat.
1. Mission: Impossible (1996)
The first Mission: Impossible movie introduces Ethan Hunt, played by Tom Cruise. Tasked with retrieving a list of undercover agents, Hunt finds himself framed for a mission gone wrong. Directed by Brian De Palma, this film sets the tone for the series with its intense action scenes and intricate plot twists. The cast includes Jon Voight, Emmanuelle Béart, and Ving Rhames, making it a thrilling start to the franchise.
IMDb Rating 7.3/10
2. Mission: Impossible 2 (2000)
Directed by John Woo, Mission: Impossible 2 features Ethan Hunt battling a rogue IMF agent who has stolen a deadly virus. The film includes high-octane action sequences and impressive stunts, like the iconic motorcycle chase. Thandie Newton and Dougray Scott join the cast, adding depth and intensity to the story. This movie focuses on a more personal and romantic angle as Hunt works to stop a global catastrophe.
IMDb Rating 6.1/10
3. Mission: Impossible III (2006)
In Mission: Impossible III, directed by J.J. Abrams, Ethan Hunt faces off against arms dealer Owen Davian, played by Philip Seymour Hoffman. The plot revolves around Hunt rescuing his captured protégé and dealing with his own personal issues. This installment delves deeper into Ethan’s emotional struggles, providing a balance between high-stakes action and character development. The film also stars Michelle Monaghan, adding a personal touch to Ethan’s journey.
IMDb Rating 6.9/10
4. Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol (2011)
Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol sees Ethan Hunt and his team disavowed following a bombing at the Kremlin. Directed by Brad Bird, this film features stunning set pieces, including a daring climb on the Burj Khalifa. Simon Pegg, Jeremy Renner, and Paula Patton join the cast, contributing to a well-rounded and action-packed story. The movie emphasizes teamwork and global stakes, making it a thrilling entry in the series.
IMDb Rating 7.4/10
5. Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation (2015)
In Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation, Ethan Hunt tackles the Syndicate, an international rogue organization. Directed by Christopher McQuarrie, this film includes standout scenes such as a high-speed motorcycle chase and a nerve-wracking underwater heist. Rebecca Ferguson joins the cast as the enigmatic Ilsa Faust, adding intrigue and excitement. The movie blends espionage, betrayal, and loyalty, keeping you engaged from start to finish.
IMDb Rating 7.4/10
6. Mission: Impossible – Fallout (2018)
Mission: Impossible – Fallout is another directorial effort by Christopher McQuarrie. It follows Ethan Hunt as he tries to stop a nuclear threat while dealing with the fallout of past missions. The film features breathtaking stunts, including a helicopter chase and rooftop run. The returning cast, including Rebecca Ferguson and Henry Cavill, adds depth and continuity to the series. This installment is noted for its intense action and emotional moments.
IMDb Rating 7.7/10
7. Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One (2023)
The latest entry, Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One, brings new stunts and challenges for Ethan Hunt. Directed by Christopher McQuarrie, the film showcases incredible action scenes and an ensemble cast. Tom Cruise leads with his usual flair, performing death-defying stunts that push the boundaries of action cinema. This movie sets the stage for the next chapter in Ethan Hunt’s saga, promising more thrills and surprises.
IMDb Rating 7.7/10
What’s Recent News of Mission Impossible 8?
The release date for Mission: Impossible 8 has been moved several times. It was originally set for August 2022 but was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Then it was rescheduled for June 2024, and now it has been pushed to May 23, 2025, partly due to the WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes.
Tom Cruise returns as Ethan Hunt. The plot continues from the end of Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning, with Hunt searching for a downed submarine called the Sevastopol. This submarine holds the source code of the mysterious “Entity”.
Other familiar faces are expected to return, making it likely that you’ll see several of the favorite characters from the previous films. The film has faced numerous setbacks but continues to build excitement among fans. The action and intrigue are sure to keep you on the edge of your seat when it finally hits theaters in 2025.
Keep an eye out for more updates as the release date approaches.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Mission: Impossible movies are there?
As of now, there are eight “Mission: Impossible” movies. The eighth installment is set to premiere on May 23, 2025.
What is the chronological order to watch the Mission: Impossible series?
The chronological order to watch the “Mission: Impossible” series is the same as the release order. This ensures you follow the story of Ethan Hunt as intended.
When was the first Mission: Impossible movie released?
The first “Mission: Impossible” movie was released on May 22, 1996. It marked the beginning of a long-running series starring Tom Cruise as Ethan Hunt.
Are all Mission: Impossible movies connected story-wise?
Yes, all “Mission: Impossible” movies are connected. Each film follows Ethan Hunt and his team as they tackle new missions while building on events from previous movies.
In what order should a newcomer to the series watch the Mission: Impossible movies?
A newcomer should watch the “Mission: Impossible” movies in their release order to follow the storyline and character development correctly. Start with “Mission: Impossible” (1996) and continue from there.
Who are the recurring characters in the Mission: Impossible film series?
Tom Cruise stars as Ethan Hunt. Other recurring characters include Luther Stickell, played by Ving Rhames, and Benji Dunn, portrayed by Simon Pegg. These characters appear in multiple films and play important roles in the series.