Since 1996, the Mission: Impossible franchise has delivered some of the most thrilling, high-octane action films in cinematic history. Led by Tom Cruise as the iconic IMF agent Ethan Hunt, each movie showcases mind-blowing stunts, pulse-pounding action sequences, and global espionage. Whether you’re new to the series or looking to rewatch the films in the correct order, this guide to the Mission Impossible movies will cover everything you need to know.
1. Mission: Impossible (1996)
Description: Ethan Hunt’s first mission as he’s framed for treason and must clear his name.
Overview and Features
Directed by Brian De Palma, "Mission: Impossible" introduces Tom Cruise as IMF agent Ethan Hunt. After a mission goes horribly wrong, Ethan finds himself framed for the deaths of his team members. Now a fugitive, he must uncover the truth behind the conspiracy while staying one step ahead of the CIA. The film’s blend of espionage, intrigue, and thrilling action set the tone for the series.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
The first Mission: Impossible film is a tense and suspenseful spy thriller. The famous vault heist scene, where Ethan dangles from the ceiling, is one of the most iconic moments in film history. Cruise’s portrayal of the resourceful and daring Ethan Hunt laid the foundation for one of cinema’s greatest action heroes.
Unique Description: Ethan Hunt’s debut with one of the greatest heist scenes ever.
IMDb Score: 7.1
2. Mission: Impossible 2 (2000)
Description: Ethan Hunt faces off against a rogue IMF agent in a race to stop a deadly virus.
Overview and Features
Directed by John Woo, "Mission: Impossible 2" takes a more stylized and action-heavy approach. This time, Ethan Hunt is tasked with retrieving a dangerous virus known as Chimera before it can be weaponized. Along the way, he faces off against former IMF agent Sean Ambrose (Dougray Scott), who seeks to profit from the virus’s release. The film’s motorcycle chases, slow-motion action, and martial arts sequences give it a distinctive visual style.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
"Mission: Impossible 2" is notable for its over-the-top action sequences and breathtaking stunts. Tom Cruise’s dedication to performing many of his own stunts is on full display, especially during the film’s thrilling rock climbing scene and explosive finale. While it may not be as critically acclaimed as other entries, it’s still an entertaining watch for fans of high-octane action.
Unique Description: Over-the-top action with iconic stunts and a deadly virus threat.
IMDb Score: 6.1
3. Mission: Impossible III (2006)
Description: Ethan Hunt returns to save his wife and stop a deadly arms dealer.
Overview and Features
Directed by J.J. Abrams, "Mission: Impossible III" brings more emotional depth to the series as Ethan Hunt is pulled back into the world of espionage. After semi-retiring to live a quiet life with his wife Julia (Michelle Monaghan), Ethan is forced to rescue her when she’s kidnapped by arms dealer Owen Davian (Philip Seymour Hoffman). The stakes are higher than ever as Ethan faces one of his most dangerous adversaries yet.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
"Mission: Impossible III" revitalized the franchise by adding more character development and emotional stakes to Ethan’s story. Philip Seymour Hoffman’s performance as the cold, calculating villain Davian elevates the film, and the action sequences, including a dramatic bridge shootout and the Vatican heist, are some of the best in the series.
Unique Description: Higher stakes, emotional depth, and a chilling villain elevate this entry.
IMDb Score: 6.9
4. Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol (2011)
Description: Ethan Hunt and his team go rogue to stop a nuclear attack after being disavowed by the IMF.
Overview and Features
Directed by Brad Bird, "Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol" sees Ethan Hunt and his IMF team disavowed after being framed for a bombing at the Kremlin. With no backup and limited resources, they must stop a terrorist named Hendricks (Michael Nyqvist) from launching a nuclear missile. The film is known for its jaw-dropping stunts, including the famous Burj Khalifa sequence where Ethan scales the world’s tallest building.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
"Ghost Protocol" is a fan-favorite entry in the series due to its inventive action scenes and thrilling set pieces. Tom Cruise’s dedication to performing the Burj Khalifa stunt without a double adds to the excitement and tension of the film. The film’s balance of humor, action, and suspense makes it one of the best installments in the franchise.
Unique Description: Ethan Hunt scales the Burj Khalifa in this action-packed, high-stakes mission.
IMDb Score: 7.4
5. Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation (2015)
Description: Ethan Hunt faces the Syndicate, a rogue organization determined to dismantle the IMF.
Overview and Features
Directed by Christopher McQuarrie, "Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation" introduces the Syndicate, a shadowy organization determined to bring down the IMF. Ethan Hunt teams up with former MI6 agent Ilsa Faust (Rebecca Ferguson) to track down and stop the Syndicate’s leader, Solomon Lane (Sean Harris). The film features stunning action sequences, including an underwater heist and a high-speed motorcycle chase.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
"Rogue Nation" ups the ante with thrilling action and intricate spycraft. Rebecca Ferguson’s Ilsa Faust is a standout addition to the franchise, providing both intrigue and complexity to the story. The film’s relentless pacing, combined with its carefully crafted action scenes, make it one of the best entries in the series.
Unique Description: Ethan takes on the Syndicate with breathtaking action and espionage.
IMDb Score: 7.4
6. Mission: Impossible – Fallout (2018)
Description: Ethan Hunt races against time to recover stolen plutonium and stop a global catastrophe.
Overview and Features
Directed by Christopher McQuarrie, "Mission: Impossible – Fallout" is widely regarded as the best entry in the series. The plot follows Ethan Hunt as he teams up with familiar allies to recover stolen plutonium before it can be used to detonate nuclear bombs. With rogue agent August Walker (Henry Cavill) and returning villain Solomon Lane on his trail, Ethan faces his most intense mission yet.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
"Fallout" delivers some of the most jaw-dropping stunts in the series, including a HALO jump, a helicopter chase, and a brutal fight in a bathroom. Tom Cruise’s commitment to performing dangerous stunts elevates the film to a new level of realism and excitement. The film’s high-octane action, combined with its intricate plot and emotional stakes, makes it a masterpiece of the action genre.
Unique Description: The best entry yet, with jaw-dropping stunts and nonstop action.
IMDb Score: 7.7
7. Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One (2023)
Description: Ethan Hunt’s next mission involves a new global threat as he faces a deadly AI system.
Overview and Features
In the latest installment, "Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One", Ethan Hunt (Tom Cruise) returns to face a new enemy: a rogue AI system that threatens global stability. As technology and espionage collide, Ethan must rely on his team’s skills to outmaneuver a powerful, unpredictable adversary. The film introduces high-stakes action sequences, including a train wreck stunt that pushes the limits of what’s possible on screen.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
"Dead Reckoning Part One" continues the franchise’s tradition of delivering heart-stopping action and suspense. With its cutting-edge technological themes, the film feels fresh and relevant, while maintaining the classic Mission: Impossible thrills. Tom Cruise once again performs daring stunts, making it a must-watch for fans of the franchise.
Unique Description: Ethan faces a rogue AI in this high-tech, high-stakes adventure.
IMDb Score: N/A (Upcoming)
FAQs
1. What is the correct order to watch the Mission: Impossible movies?
The correct order to watch the Mission: Impossible movies is as follows:
- 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)
2. Who plays Ethan Hunt in the Mission: Impossible movies?
Tom Cruise plays Ethan Hunt in all of the Mission: Impossible movies.
3. Which Mission: Impossible movie is the most popular?
"Mission: Impossible – Fallout" (2018) is often regarded as the best and most popular entry in the franchise, thanks to its incredible action sequences and intricate plot.
4. Are the Mission: Impossible movies connected?
Yes, the Mission: Impossible movies are connected through recurring characters, ongoing storylines, and Ethan Hunt’s development as a character.
5. Will there be a Mission: Impossible 8?
Yes, Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part Two is expected to be released in 2024, continuing the story from Dead Reckoning Part One.
The Mission: Impossible movies in order offer an exhilarating journey through some of the best action films ever made. From Mission: Impossible (1996) to Dead Reckoning Part One (2023), each film raises the bar with intense stunts, complex espionage, and unforgettable moments. Whether you’re new to the series or a longtime fan, watching the films in order allows you to fully appreciate the evolution of Ethan Hunt and his thrilling adventures.
