If you love horror-comedy that mixes big laughs with genuine edge-of-your-seat tension, few franchises deliver like Tremors. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering the underground terror of Perfection, Nevada, this guide to Tremors movies in order has everything you need.
From the iconic 1990 original starring Kevin Bacon to the later direct-to-video adventures packed with Burt Gummer’s survivalist charm, the Tremors franchise has entertained audiences for over three decades. These films blend practical monster effects, witty dialogue, and unforgettable characters into a cult classic series that never gets old.
In this comprehensive post, we’ll break down the complete Tremors franchise order, provide spoiler-free summaries, key cast details, fun facts, and recommendations on where to watch. Let’s dig in—before the Graboids do!
The Complete Tremors Movies in Order (Release Order)
Here’s every movie in the Tremors movie series, listed by release year:
1. Tremors (1990)
Director: Ron Underwood
Runtime: 96 minutes
The film that started it all! In the dusty desert town of Perfection, Nevada, handymen Valentine McKee (Kevin Bacon) and Earl Bassett (Fred Ward) dream of escaping their boring lives. Their plans are shattered when they discover giant underground monsters called Graboids that sense vibrations and hunt anything that moves. Teaming up with a seismologist (Finn Carter), survivalist couple Burt and Heather Gummer (Michael Gross & Reba McEntire), the group must use wits, trucks, and explosives to survive. This horror-comedy masterpiece blends genuine scares with sharp humor and groundbreaking practical effects. It remains one of the most rewatchable cult classics of all time.
2. Tremors 2: Aftershocks (1996)
Director: S.S. Wilson
Runtime: 100 minutes
Earl Bassett (Fred Ward) returns, now broke and tempted by a lucrative job eradicating Graboids at a Mexican oil refinery. Partnered with a young technician, he soon faces an evolved threat: fast, bipedal Shriekers that reproduce rapidly. Burt Gummer (Michael Gross) joins the action with his trademark firepower. This sequel expands the monster lore while maintaining the franchise’s perfect mix of action, comedy, and clever problem-solving. It’s widely praised for its energy and for solidifying Burt as the ultimate Graboid hunter. A fan-favorite that successfully continues the original’s spirit in a direct-to-video format.
3. Tremors 3: Back to Perfection (2001)
Director: Brent Maddock
Runtime: 104 minutes
Burt Gummer returns to Perfection to find the town facing new dangers after a Graboid outbreak. The creatures evolve further, introducing Ass-Blasters—flying, fire-propelled monsters. The quirky residents band together once more as Burt attempts to turn his survivalist compound into a tourist attraction. Packed with bigger creature action, hilarious one-liners, and returning cast members, this entry feels like a true homecoming. It balances fan service with fresh monster designs and delivers some of the franchise’s most memorable visual gags. A fun, chaotic ride that celebrates the eccentric world of Perfection.
4. Tremors 4: The Legend Begins (2004)
Director: S.S. Wilson
Runtime: 101 minutes
Set in 1889, this prequel explores the origins of the Graboid threat. Michael Gross plays Hiram Gummer, Burt’s great-grandfather, a sophisticated businessman who arrives in the struggling mining town of Rejection. When deadly worms begin attacking residents, the town must invent creative ways to fight back using period-appropriate weapons. This Western-flavored entry adds rich historical context and world-building. It stands out for its unique tone, strong production design, and Gross’s charismatic performance. Essential viewing for fans wanting to understand the franchise’s deep lore.
5. Tremors 5: Bloodlines (2015)
Director: Don Michael Paul
Runtime: 99 minutes
Burt Gummer travels to South Africa on a mission to eliminate a new Graboid infestation for a wildlife documentary crew. Joined by a young assistant (Jamie Kennedy), he faces evolved creatures in stunning new environments. This revival brings higher production values, international scope, and fresh monster variations. Michael Gross continues to shine as the aging but unstoppable Burt. The film successfully updates the formula while staying true to the franchise’s humor and action roots. It marked a strong return after an 11-year hiatus.
6. Tremors: A Cold Day in Hell (2018)
Director: Don Michael Paul
Runtime: 98 minutes
Burt Gummer and his team head to a remote frozen region (Canada doubling as Antarctica) to rescue a research team besieged by Graboids. The cold environment adds new challenges and creative kill sequences. Jamie Kennedy returns as Travis, providing comic relief alongside Burt’s no-nonsense attitude. While slightly lower on the production scale, it delivers fun creature action and franchise continuity. Fans enjoy the change of scenery and Burt’s continued evolution as a character. A solid, entertaining entry that keeps the Graboid legacy alive.
7. Tremors: Shrieker Island (2020)
Director: Don Michael Paul
Runtime: 103 minutes
The latest film sees Burt Gummer invited to a private tropical island nature preserve where a wealthy thrill-seeker has deliberately introduced Graboids, Shriekers, and Ass-Blasters. Burt must team up with scientists to stop the outbreak before it spreads. Packed with explosive action, monster variety, and classic franchise humor, this entry gives Michael Gross plenty of heroic moments. It serves as a satisfying conclusion to the main saga so far, celebrating Burt’s enduring legend while delivering the over-the-top entertainment fans expect.
Tremors Timeline & Chronological Order
For story timeline (not release order):
- Tremors 4: The Legend Begins (1889) – Origins
- Tremors (1990) – Main events
- Tremors 2: Aftershocks (1996)
- Tremors 3: Back to Perfection (2001)
- Tremors: The Series (2003 TV show – fits here)
- Tremors 5, 6, and 7 – Later adventures with Burt
The Tremors franchise order works best in release order for maximum enjoyment, but starting with the prequel gives extra context for Perfection’s history.
Best Tremors Movies Ranked
Here’s one fan’s ranking (with general consensus noted):
- Tremors (1990) – The undisputed king. Perfect blend of horror, comedy, and heart.
- Tremors 2: Aftershocks – Excellent sequel that expands the universe.
- Tremors 3: Back to Perfection – Returns to the roots with big laughs.
- Tremors 4: The Legend Begins – Creative prequel that stands out.
- Tremors 5: Bloodlines – Solid revival.
- Tremors: Shrieker Island – Entertaining later entry.
- Tremors: A Cold Day in Hell – Fun but weakest of the bunch.
What’s your ranking? Drop it in the comments!
How many Tremors Movies are there?
There are 7 Tremors movies in the franchise. The series includes the 1990 original with Kevin Bacon plus six sequels, ending with Tremors: Shrieker Island in 2020.
All Tremors Movies in Order of Release Date
Here is the list of Tremors films in order, they were released.
Films:
1. Tremors — January 19, 1990
2. Tremors 2: Aftershocks — April 9, 1996
3. Tremors 3: Back to Perfection — October 2, 2001
4. Tremors 4: The Legend Begins — January 2, 2004
5. Tremors 5: Bloodlines — October 6, 2015
6. Tremors: A Cold Day in Hell — May 15, 2018
7. Tremors: Shrieker Island — October 20, 2020
Television:
1. Tremors — March 28, 2003 – July 6, 2004
Why the Tremors Franchise Is Still Awesome
The Tremors movies succeed because they never take themselves too seriously while delivering genuine thrills. The practical effects, memorable characters (especially Burt Gummer and his endless arsenal), and clever creature design created a world that feels lived-in and lovable.
The franchise’s cult status comes from its humor, rewatchability, and heart. Even the later direct-to-video entries maintain the spirit that made the original special. In an era of CGI-heavy blockbusters, the charm of rubber Graboids and shotgun-toting desert weirdos remains irresistible.
Upcoming Tremors Movies or Reboot Rumors
As of 2026, no new official film has been released since Shrieker Island. However, the original creative team at Stampede Entertainment has reclaimed rights to the original script and is actively discussing a “return to Perfection” sequel. There’s talk of possibly bringing back Kevin Bacon as Val McKee. While nothing is confirmed, the door remains open for more Graboid mayhem.
FAQ – Tremors Movies in Order
1. How many Tremors movies are there? There are seven main films in the series.
2. Do I need to watch Tremors movies in order? Release order is recommended, though Tremors 4 works well as a prequel.
3. Is the Tremors TV series canon? Yes, it fits between Tremors 3 and 4.
4. Which Tremors movie has Kevin Bacon? Only the original 1990 film.
5. Who is the best character in Tremors? Burt Gummer, hands down—Michael Gross appears in almost every entry.
6. Are the later Tremors movies good? They’re fun, lighter B-movies that deliver exactly what fans want.
7. Where can I watch all Tremors movies together? Look for the “Tremors 7-Movie Collection” on Blu-ray, digital, or streaming bundles.
8. Is there a new Tremors movie coming in 2026? Rumors and development talks exist, but nothing is officially confirmed yet.
Conclusion: Time to Binge the Tremors Franchise!
There you have it—the definitive guide to Tremors movies in order. Whether you’re revisiting Perfection or experiencing the Graboid terror for the first time, this franchise delivers nonstop entertainment.
Which is your favorite Tremors movie? Have you spotted any new Graboid mutations we missed? Drop your thoughts in the comments below, share this guide with fellow fans, and subscribe for more horror-comedy deep dives and franchise guides.
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