Lethal Weapon Movies: Release Order
The Lethal Weapon series is a defining buddy cop action franchise that follows the unlikely partnership between suicidal detective Martin Riggs and family man Roger Murtaugh as they tackle dangerous cases in Los Angeles. The films helped establish many of the tropes that would define the buddy cop genre, combining intense action sequences with character-driven comedy and drama.
The four films follow a linear progression that chronicles the evolution of Riggs and Murtaugh's relationship from reluctant partners to close friends and family. Each installment builds on their shared history, making the release order the way to watch the series.
Linear Timeline: Release Order = Story Order
Lethal Weapon
A by-the-book LAPD detective is reluctantly partnered with a suicidal, unpredictable cop still grieving his wife's death. The mismatched duo must work together to investigate a case involving drugs and prostitution that hits close to home.
Affiliate link - no extra cost
Lethal Weapon 2
Police detectives Riggs and Murtaugh investigate South African diplomats who are exploiting their diplomatic immunity to commit crimes.
Affiliate link - no extra cost
Lethal Weapon 3
Detective partners Riggs and Murtaugh face off against a corrupt former police officer who is illegally selling confiscated weapons to street gangs.
Affiliate link - no extra cost
Lethal Weapon 4
Aging cops Riggs and Murtaugh face their toughest challenge yet when they must stop a dangerous Chinese triad from freeing their imprisoned leaders on American soil.
Affiliate link - no extra cost
Other Film Series
James Bond
The longest-running film franchise in cinema history, following the adventures of British secret agent 007 across six decades and six different actors.
Men in Black
A sci-fi comedy franchise about secret agents who monitor alien activity on Earth.
Once Upon a Time in China
A martial arts film series following the legendary Chinese folk hero Wong Fei-hung and his adventures in late 19th century China.
Taxi
French action-comedy franchise about a taxi driver and a clumsy cop fighting crime in Marseille, plus an unconnected American remake set in New York.
Zoe Saldaña
Accomplished actress who became a sci-fi franchise icon through starring roles in Avatar, Star Trek, and Guardians of the Galaxy while maintaining a diverse career across multiple genres.
Zoolander
Ben Stiller's satirical comedy series following the absurd adventures of dimwitted male model Derek Zoolander.