How to watch
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 β 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 β 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.
π Release Order
With only two films, release order is straightforward. Always start with the original before diving into the anarchic follow-up.
- Gremlins (1984)
- Gremlins 2: The New Batch (1990)
Release order and story chronology are identical for Gremlins β the sequel picks up after the events of the first film, with Billy and his Mogwai Gizmo relocating to New York City.
π 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.
- Gremlins (1984)
- Gremlins 2: The New Batch (1990)
Which Order Should You Choose?
Start with the 1984 original β 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.
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