How to watch

The Cannonball Run Movie Watch Order in the correct order

How to watch the Cannonball Run movies in order

Last updated: September 27 2026

Written by: ChronoChris

The Cannonball Run packed all-star casts into a wild cross-country race, and its sequels keep the comedy speeding along, so here's the order to watch.

Inspired by a real illegal cross-country road race, The Cannonball Run starred Burt Reynolds leading a star-studded ensemble of drivers in disguises and souped-up cars. The franchise's blend of car stunts and comedy made it a box-office hit and spawned sequels and a spin-off.

πŸ• Release Order

Release order follows the outrageous races as the ensemble casts grew even bigger.

  1. The Cannonball Run (1981)
  2. Cannonball Run II (1984)
  3. Speed Zone (1989)

The films are standalone comedies with recurring energy rather than a serialized plot, so chronology follows release order.

πŸ“– Story Chronology

Story chronology simply follows the races in the order they were made.

  1. The Cannonball Run (1981)
  2. Cannonball Run II (1984)
  3. Speed Zone (1989) β€” a spin-off in the same racing spirit

Which Order Should You Choose?

Start with the 1981 original β€” it's the fastest and funniest of the bunch. Cannonball Run II reunites much of the cast for more of the same, and Speed Zone is a loose spin-off for completists. Watch in release order, though each film stands well enough on its own.

πŸ”— Related Guides

  • Rush Hour Watch OrderGuide
  • Bad Boys Watch OrderGuide
  • Mad Max Watch OrderGuide

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