Spy Kids Movies: Cortez Trilogy

2001 - 20033 Films4h 32m2.8 Average

The original Spy Kids trilogy follows Carmen and Juni Cortez as they evolve from ordinary children into capable young agents. These three films form a complete character arc, beginning with their shocking discovery that their parents are retired spies and culminating in a virtual reality adventure that brings together the entire extended spy family.

This watch order focuses exclusively on the Cortez family saga, offering the purest experience of Robert Rodriguez's original vision. The trilogy maintains consistent tone, character development, and world-building, making it great for viewers who want to experience the complete story of the franchise's original protagonists.

There are 2 other watch orders available – see the links up above.

1
Spy Kids poster

Spy Kids

20011h 28m3.1
Director: Robert Rodriguez
Cast: Alexa PenaVega, Daryl Sabara, Antonio Banderas, Carla Gugino, Alan Cumming

When their secret agent parents are forced out of retirement to investigate the disappearance of fellow spies, Carmen and Juni Cortez discover their seemingly boring mom and dad were once top international operatives. The kids must step up to help save the day when their parents get captured during the mission.

FamilyActionComedyAdventure
2
Spy Kids 2: The Island of Lost Dreams poster

Spy Kids 2: The Island of Lost Dreams

20021h 40m2.9
Director: Robert Rodriguez
Cast: Alexa PenaVega, Daryl Sabara, Antonio Banderas, Carla Gugino, Steve Buscemi

Carmen and Juni Cortez return as Level 2 OSS agents on a mission to stop a mad scientist on a mysterious volcanic island filled with strange creatures. When their high-tech gadgets fail them, the young spies must rely on their wits and teamwork to save the world.

FamilyActionAdventureComedyScience Fiction
3
Spy Kids 3-D: Game Over poster

Spy Kids 3-D: Game Over

20031h 24m2.5
Director: Robert Rodriguez
Cast: Daryl Sabara, Ricardo Montalban, Alexa PenaVega, Sylvester Stallone, Courtney Jines

Juni must enter a dangerous virtual reality game to rescue his sister Carmen from the Toymaker, a new villain who has trapped her in his digital world.

FamilyActionComedyAdventureScience Fiction