In shortNumber 1 in our ranking is The Lord of the Rings, followed by The Godfather and Star Wars.
The best movie franchises keep their quality film after film and build worlds audiences want to return to. We judged the whole series, not just its best entry, along with its influence and success.
Which would you put first? Vote below or add the one we missed.
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We'll publish the readers' ranking once there are enough votes for it to be representative.
1. The Lord of the Rings
2001–2003 · Peter Jackson
A trilogy shot back to back that faithfully adapted Tolkien's work. The Return of the King won 11 Oscars, equalling the all-time record.
2. The Godfather
1972–1990 · Francis Ford Coppola
Its first two films both won the Oscar for Best Picture. It is the benchmark for films about family, power and crime.
3. Star Wars
Since 1977 · Created by George Lucas
It changed special effects, marketing and the way blockbusters are made. It is one of the most influential franchises in popular culture.
4. Back to the Future
1985–1990 · Robert Zemeckis
An almost perfect trilogy of adventure and time travel. Its script is studied as a model of how to make every detail fit.
5. Indiana Jones
Since 1981 · Steven Spielberg
It revived the spirit of classic adventure serials with an unforgettable hero. Raiders of the Lost Ark is still a model for action cinema.
6. Harry Potter
2001–2011 · Eight films
It accompanied a whole generation that grew up with its characters. It kept its main cast together for ten years and eight films.
7. Toy Story
Since 1995 · Pixar
It began with the first computer-animated feature and grew up with its audience. Few franchises keep such quality in every instalment.
8. The Dark Knight Trilogy
2005–2012 · Christopher Nolan
It took superhero films into realistic, adult territory. Its second film is, for many, the best in the genre.
9. Mission: Impossible
Since 1996 · Tom Cruise
It has improved over the years, which is rare for a franchise. Its practical action scenes, with the star doing his own stunts, are its trademark.
10. Mad Max
Since 1979 · George Miller
It defined the look of post-apocalyptic cinema. Fury Road (2015) won six Oscars and is one of the great action films of this century.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best movie franchise of all time?
In our ranking, The Lord of the Rings, for the quality of its three films and its recognition. The Godfather and Star Wars complete the podium.
What matters more: the best film or the whole series?
The whole series. A franchise with one brilliant entry and weak sequels scores lower than one that keeps its level.
Would you change the order?
Tell us what's missing, what shouldn't be here or what you'd put at number 1.