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Gremlins Movie Watch Order in the correct order

How to watch the Gremlins movies in order

Last updated: July 11 2026

Written by: ChronoAlice

The Gremlins franchise is a beloved horror-comedy classic from the 1980s, blending mischievous creature mayhem with dark humor and surprisingly sharp satire. Two films make this one of the easiest watch orders imaginable — but both are essential viewing.

Few film franchises have defined a holiday season quite like Gremlins. Joe Dante's 1984 original is a masterpiece of tonal balance — equal parts Christmas movie, creature feature, and dark comedy. When teenager Billy Peltzer receives a mysterious creature called a Mogwai as a gift and breaks three simple rules, chaos erupts in his small town. The 1990 sequel, Gremlins 2: The New Batch, leans into wild meta-humor to create one of cinema's most audacious comedy sequels.

🕐 Release Order

With only two films, release order is straightforward. Always start with the original before diving into the anarchic follow-up.

  1. Gremlins (1984)
  2. Gremlins 2: The New Batch (1990)

Release order and story chronology are identical for Gremlins — the sequel picks up after the events of the first film, with Billy and his Mogwai Gizmo relocating to New York City.

📖 Story Chronology

The Gremlins story moves linearly from the first film to the second. Gremlins 2 directly references the events of the original and continues Billy's story, making it essential to watch the films in order.

  1. Gremlins (1984)
  2. Gremlins 2: The New Batch (1990)

Which Order Should You Choose?

Start with the 1984 original — there's no other option. It's a holiday classic and a genuinely great film that establishes Billy, Gizmo, the rules of Mogwai care, and the Gremlins' terrifying yet comedic personality. Gremlins 2 is a wildly different beast (pun intended), breaking the fourth wall and delivering pure chaotic comedy. Some fans prefer the darker original; others love the gonzo sequel. Watch both and decide for yourself.

🔗 Related Guides

  • Ghostbusters Watch OrderGuide
  • Back to the Future Watch OrderGuide
  • Indiana Jones Watch OrderGuide

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