The Ultimate Guide to the Mad Max Movies: Ranking the Best to Worst

The Mad Max Franchise: An Introduction to the Mad Max Movies

For over 40 years, the Mad Max movies have captivated audiences with their post-apocalyptic world, high-octane action sequences, and memorable characters. With five movies under its belt, the Mad Max movies franchise has managed to maintain its reputation as one of the best action movie series of all time.

Table of Contents

The Mad Max Movies: Ranked from Worst to Best

1. Mad Max (1979) – One of the First Mad Max Movies

The original Mad Max movie, released in 1979, set the tone for the Mad Max movies franchise’s future success. Directed by George Miller and starring Mel Gibson, the film follows a police officer who goes after a gang of vicious motorcycle thugs in a post-apocalyptic Australia. With a limited budget and no clear direction, Miller’s inexperience can be felt at times, but the film’s thrilling action sequences and character-driven story make it a special entry in the Mad Max movies.

2. Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome (1985) – A Disappointing Entry in the Mad Max Movies

The third film in the series, released in 1985, is often considered the weakest link in the Mad Max movies franchise. Directed by George Miller and starring Mel Gibson once again, the film follows Max as he joins a group of children to take down a tyrannical queen in a strange town. The film’s uneven tone and lack of focus on action make it a disappointing installment in the Mad Max movies.

3. Mad Max: The Road Warrior (1981) – A Fan Favorite in the Mad Max Movies

The sequel to the original Mad Max, released in 1981, is often considered the fan-favorite of the original trilogy. Directed by George Miller and starring Mel Gibson again, the film follows Max as he helps a group of locals escape bandits to protect their wealth of gasoline. The Road Warrior is where Mel Gibson gets to shine as Mad Max, and his presence alone commands the screen. The film’s reliance on practical stunts and incredible stunt performances makes it a standout in the Mad Max movies franchise.

4. Mad Max: Fury Road (2015) – One of the Best Action Movies in the Mad Max Movies

Released in 2015, Mad Max: Fury Road is widely considered one of the best action movies of all time. Directed by George Miller and starring Tom Hardy and Charlize Theron, the film follows Max as he joins Imperator Furiosa in a rebellion against Immortan Joe’s cult. The film’s stunning action sequences, memorable characters, and world-building make it a masterpiece in the Mad Max movies franchise.

5. Furiosa: A Mad Max Movie Prequel (2024) – A Worthy Addition to the Mad Max Movies

The latest installment in the franchise, released in 2024, is a prequel that tells the origin story of Imperator Furiosa. Directed by George Miller and starring Anya Taylor-Joy, the film follows Furiosa as she grows into her role as a warrior woman. With its focus on character development and world-building, Furiosa is a worthy addition to the Mad Max movies franchise.

Conclusion

Ranking the Mad Max movies from worst to best is a subjective task, but our ranking provides a clear hierarchy based on quality. Whether you’re a fan of the original trilogy or prefer the more modern installments, there’s something for everyone in this iconic franchise of Mad Max movies. From its humble beginnings to its current status as an action movie giant, Mad Max has consistently delivered high-octane thrills and memorable characters in its Mad Max movies franchise. So, what’s your favorite Mad Max movie?