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Best of the Best Movie Watch Order in the correct order

How to watch the Best of the Best movies in order

Last updated: November 14 2026

Written by: ChronoBob

Best of the Best is a cult martial arts series from the late 80s and 90s, and its four films shift from tournament drama to all-out action, so the order matters.

The original Best of the Best follows a US national karate team, led by Eric Roberts and Phillip Rhee, as they train under James Earl Jones for a high-stakes tournament against South Korea. Phillip Rhee's Tommy Lee became the face of the franchise, carrying the story through three sequels that move from the tournament mat to underground fighting rings and street-level action.

πŸ• Release Order

Here's every Best of the Best film in release order.

  1. Best of the Best (1989)
  2. Best of the Best 2 (1993)
  3. Best of the Best 3: No Turning Back (1995)
  4. Best of the Best 4: Without Warning (1998)

Tommy Lee's journey continues across all four films, which keeps the story moving forward in a straight line.

πŸ“– Story Chronology

The chronological order is identical to the release order, with the second film following the original team members and the later films focusing on Tommy Lee.

  1. Best of the Best (1989)
  2. Best of the Best 2 (1993)
  3. Best of the Best 3: No Turning Back (1995)
  4. Best of the Best 4: Without Warning (1998)

Which Order Should You Choose?

Watch the series in release order. The first two films form the emotional core of the franchise and work best together, while parts 3 and 4 are more traditional 90s action movies. Martial arts fans will appreciate Phillip Rhee's fight choreography throughout.

πŸ”— Related Guides

  • Bloodsport Watch OrderGuide
  • Kickboxer Watch OrderGuide
  • The Karate Kid Watch OrderGuide

Did we miss anything? Let us know and we'll keep this guide up to date!