A well-crafted movie trilogy represents a significant achievement for filmmakers, offering audiences a collection of interconnected stories that enhance the overall cinematic experience. While mainstream trilogies like The Lord of the Rings and The Dark Knight are widely celebrated, there are numerous underrated trilogies that showcase exceptional artistry and storytelling. This article highlights seven such trilogies, where each film stands as a masterpiece in its own right.
The Pusher Trilogy
The Pusher Trilogy, consisting of Pusher (1996), Pusher II, and Pusher 3, marked the emergence of director Nicolas Winding Refn and actor Mads Mikkelsen. The first film introduces Kim Bodnia as a low-level drug dealer entangled with a powerful Serb drug lord after a deal goes awry. Although Refn did not initially plan a sequel, financial challenges led him to explore the stories of his characters further. The sequels delve into the life of crime boss Milo, portrayed by Bodnia.
Each film in the trilogy presents a standalone narrative rooted in the gritty realism of Copenhagen’s criminal underworld. Critics have praised the trilogy for its exploration of psychological struggles underlying the violence, making it distinct within the genre.
The Apu Trilogy
Directed by Satyajit Ray, the Apu Trilogy consists of Pather Panchali (1955), Aparajito, and The World of Apu. Adapted from acclaimed Bengali novels, the trilogy follows Apu from childhood to adulthood in early 20th-century Bengal. The first film introduces audiences to the young Apu, played by Subir Banerjee, while the subsequent films depict his journey through adolescence and adulthood in Varanasi and Calcutta, respectively.
The trilogy has garnered universal acclaim, influencing many contemporary filmmakers including Martin Scorsese and Wes Anderson. It is often regarded as one of the greatest cinematic achievements, despite being less known outside film circles.
The Three Colours Trilogy
Krzysztof Kieślowski’s Three Colours Trilogy, comprising Blue, White, and Red, explores themes of liberty, equality, and fraternity, reflecting the colors of the French flag. Each film features a different set of characters and stories while interconnecting through cameo appearances. The trilogy stars notable actors such as Juliette Binoche and Irene Jacob.
Released between 1993 and 1994, the trilogy received widespread critical acclaim, with Three Colours: Red earning several Academy Award nominations, including Best Director and Best Original Screenplay. Kieślowski’s work remains a significant contribution to cinema’s exploration of human relationships and political themes.
The Death Trilogy
The Death Trilogy, directed by Alejandro González Iñárritu, includes Amores Perros (2000), 21 Grams, and Babel. Each film is interconnected through thematic and narrative elements, focusing on the complexities of life in Mexico City and beyond. The trilogy features prominent actors, including Gael García Bernal and Sean Penn.
Critically acclaimed, the trilogy has received numerous accolades, with Amores Perros earning an Oscar nomination for Best Foreign Language Film. Babel was particularly celebrated, garnering seven Oscar nominations and winning a Golden Globe.
The Mexico Trilogy
Also known as the Desperado Trilogy, The Mexico Trilogy consists of El Mariachi (1992), Desperado, and Once Upon a Time in Mexico. Created by Robert Rodriguez, the trilogy presents a blend of action and Western genres, starting with the low-budget El Mariachi, which achieved significant box office success.
Rodriguez’s ability to create engaging films on a modest budget has solidified his reputation in the industry. The trilogy is notable for its energetic storytelling, memorable music, and charismatic performances.
The Salta Trilogy
Directed by Lucrecia Martel, the Salta Trilogy features La Ciénaga (2001), The Holy Girl, and The Headless Woman. Set in Salta, Argentina, the trilogy explores women’s experiences and identities through unique narratives. Martel’s distinct arthouse style has received acclaim, although it may challenge mainstream audiences.
Both The Holy Girl and The Headless Woman received nominations for the prestigious Cannes Film Festival‘s Palme d’Or award. The trilogy is celebrated for its profound insights into gender and sexuality, marking it as one of Argentina’s cinematic masterpieces.
The Human Condition Trilogy
The Human Condition Trilogy, directed by Masaki Kobayashi, includes No Greater Love (1959), Road to Eternity, and A Soldier’s Prayer. Based on a novel, the trilogy tells the story of Kaji, portrayed by Tatsuya Nakadai, as he navigates the brutal realities of life during World War II.
This trilogy, characterized by its anti-imperial narrative, has been recognized as a monumental work in cinema history. Despite its initial controversy in Japan, it has garnered international acclaim and numerous awards, emphasizing the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
These seven trilogies, while perhaps overshadowed by their more mainstream counterparts, each offer a profound exploration of themes that resonate deeply with audiences. Their artistic significance and storytelling mastery make them essential viewing for any film enthusiast.
