How to watch
Short Circuit Movie Watch Order in the correct order
How to watch the Short Circuit movies in order
Last updated: September 30 2026
Written by: ChronoChris
Short Circuit introduced the world to Number 5, a military robot brought to life by a lightning strike. A watch order guide keeps this 1980s sci-fi comedy duology in sequence.
Short Circuit follows Number 5, an experimental military robot who gains sentience after being struck by lightning and decides he wants to live as a free, feeling being rather than a weapon. The film's charming robot hero became an '80s icon, and a sequel followed his adventures into the big city as he learns more about the human world. With the robot renamed Johnny 5 across the two films, a quick guide helps you follow his journey from the lab to the streets.
π Release Order
Release order follows Number 5 β later renamed Johnny 5 β from his origin to his solo adventure.
- Short Circuit (1986)
- Short Circuit 2 (1988)
Story chronology matches release order, since the sequel continues Johnny 5's story after the events of the first film.
π Story Chronology
The sequel finds Johnny 5 navigating city life and helping his friend Ben with a toy business, directly following his newfound freedom from the original. Watching in release order keeps his growth as a character intact.
- Short Circuit (1986)
- Short Circuit 2 (1988)
Which Order Should You Choose?
Start with the original 'Short Circuit' to witness Johnny 5 come alive, then continue with 'Short Circuit 2' for his city escapades and his eager attempts to fit in with humanity. Release order is the natural choice, as the sequel assumes you already know and love the plucky robot and picks up his story after he wins his freedom. Watched together, the two films trace Johnny 5's evolution from a curious machine into a fully realized character with heart.
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