Cars Movies: Release Order
The Cars trilogy follows race car Lightning McQueen through different stages of his career and life. The first film introduces the hotshot rookie who learns that winning isn't everything after getting stranded in the small town of Radiator Springs on Route 66. The second film takes a detour into international espionage as Lightning's best friend Mater is mistaken for a spy during the World Grand Prix, making it the most divisive entry in the series.
The trilogy concludes with a more mature and contemplative film about aging and legacy, as Lightning faces a new generation of high-tech racers and finds purpose as a mentor to trainer Cruz Ramirez. Together, the three films grossed over $1.4 billion worldwide and spawned a massive merchandising empire. The now-defunct DisneyToon Studios also produced two Planes spin-off films set in the same universe.
Linear Timeline: Release Order = Story Order
Cars
Lightning McQueen, a hotshot rookie race car driven to succeed, discovers that life is about the journey, not the finish line, when he finds himself unexpectedly detoured in the sleepy Route 66 town of Radiator Springs. On route across the country to the big Piston Cup Championship in California to compete against two seasoned pros, McQueen gets to know the town's offbeat characters.
Cars 2
Star race car Lightning McQueen and his pal Mater head overseas to compete in the World Grand Prix race. But the road to the championship becomes rocky as Mater gets caught up in an intriguing adventure of his own: international espionage.
Cars 3
Blindsided by a new generation of blazing-fast racers, the legendary Lightning McQueen is suddenly pushed out of the sport he loves. To get back in the game, he will need the help of an eager young race technician with her own plan to win, inspiration from the late Fabulous Hudson Hornet, and a few unexpected turns.
Other Film Series
Asterix
French comic book adaptations following the adventures of Asterix and Obelix in ancient Gaul, spanning both animated and live-action films over five decades.
Despicable Me
A popular animated franchise following supervillain-turned-father Gru and his loyal Minions through heartwarming adventures, including prequel films that explore the Minions' origins.
Ice Age
A family-friendly animated series following prehistoric friends Manny, Sid, and Diego through various ice age adventures.
Planes
Spin-off duology from the Cars universe following crop duster Dusty Crophopper's journey from aspiring racer to wildland firefighter.
Toy Story
Pixar's groundbreaking animated franchise following the secret lives of toys and their adventures with their human owners.
Winnie the Pooh
Disney's beloved animated and live-action films based on A.A. Milne's classic stories about a honey-loving bear and his friends in the Hundred Acre Wood.