8 Lesser-Known Film Trilogies Worth the Binge Instead of Star Wars

1. "Before Trilogy" (1995, 2004, 2013)

If you're a fan of romance, wit, and engaging conversation, look no further than Richard Linklater's "Before Trilogy". Comprising "Before Sunrise", "Before Sunset" and "Before Midnight", the trilogy follows the evolving relationship of Jesse (Ethan Hawke) and Celine (Julie Delpy).

The movies were filmed nine years apart and have a unique structure; each movie essentially takes place in real-time, over the course of a few hours. They explore the characters' connection in such an authentic way that you'll feel like a third wheel on their dates. The trilogy has a cumulative Rotten Tomatoes rating of 95%, proving that love truly does conquer all – even the critics.

2. "Three Flavours Cornetto Trilogy" (2004, 2007, 2013)

This trilogy has nothing to do with ice cream. The "Three Flavours Cornetto Trilogy" – or the "Blood and Ice Cream Trilogy" – consists of "Shaun of the Dead", "Hot Fuzz", and "The World's End". Directed by Edgar Wright and starring Simon Pegg and Nick Frost, these films blend comedy, action, and a dash of social commentary. Each movie, while entirely separate in storyline and character, uses a Cornetto ice cream as a sort of in-joke.

Their box office numbers are modest compared to the blockbuster trilogies, but their wit, humor, and heart make them a must-watch. Plus, they have zombies, rogue cops, and robot invaders. What more could you ask for?

3. "Back to the Future Trilogy" (1985, 1989, 1990)

Alright, this may not be the most obscure trilogy on this list, but its cult status warrants a mention. The "Back to the Future Trilogy", directed by Robert Zemeckis and starring Michael J. Fox and Christopher Lloyd, is a hilarious and heartwarming exploration of time travel.

The trilogy takes us from 1985 to 1955, then forward to 2015, and finally back to the wild west of 1885. With its clever blend of comedy, action, and a hint of romance, it's one trilogy that never gets old no matter how many times you re-watch it. Grossing nearly $1 billion at the box office worldwide, it's safe to say this trilogy made some serious 'time'-money.

4. "The Evil Dead Trilogy" (1981, 1987, 1992)

Not for the faint of heart, "The Evil Dead Trilogy" brings together horror, gore, and surprisingly, slapstick comedy. Directed by Sam Raimi and starring the iconic Bruce Campbell, the trilogy – "The Evil Dead", "Evil Dead II", and "Army of Darkness" – is a wild ride. Campbell's character, Ash Williams, deals with demonic entities while delivering memorable one-liners that have since become legendary within the horror film community. The trilogy wasn't a blockbuster sensation, but it has since gained a massive cult following, earning its spot on this list.

5. "The Vengeance Trilogy" (2002, 2003, 2005)

While the title sounds like a new Marvel project, "The Vengeance Trilogy" is a South Korean series that was a hit with American audiences. Directed by Park Chan-wook, the trilogy is a gripping exploration of revenge, violence, and the darkest corners of human nature. It's composed of "Sympathy for Mr. Vengeance", "Oldboy" (the original one, not the 2013 American remake), and "Lady Vengeance".

Each film is distinct, but they are bound by the theme of vengeance. It may not be the lightest watch, but if you can handle the intensity, this critically acclaimed trilogy, boasting a strong 80% average on Rotten Tomatoes, is well worth your time.

6. "The Ocean's Trilogy" (2001, 2004, 2007)

Remember George Clooney and Brad Pitt robbing casinos with such charm and wit that you almost forgot they were criminals? That's right, we're talking about "The Ocean's Trilogy". Directed by Steven Soderbergh, "Ocean's Eleven", "Ocean's Twelve" and "Ocean's Thirteen" are a fun, stylish romp through the world of high-stakes heists and con artists.

Each movie is like a perfect cocktail – a dash of comedy, a splash of drama, and a whole lot of charisma. The trilogy, which grossed over $1.1 billion worldwide, proves that crime does pay...at least at the box office.

7. "The Dollars Trilogy" (1964, 1965, 1966)

A classic among the spaghetti westerns, "The Dollars Trilogy" by Sergio Leone is a must-watch for any film lover. It includes "A Fistful of Dollars", "For a Few Dollars More" and "The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly". While not initially released in the US, they quickly became a sensation, owing in no small part to Clint Eastwood's 'Man with No Name.'

Known for their tense standoffs, stylish visuals, and Ennio Morricone's iconic scores, these films elevated the genre and laid the groundwork for modern westerns. Despite their age, they remain as gripping today as they were back then.

8. "The Matrix Trilogy" (1999, 2003)

Sure, everyone has heard about "The Matrix", but have you ever sat down and watched the entire trilogy in one go? Despite the mixed reception of the sequels, "The Matrix", "The Matrix Reloaded" and "The Matrix Revolutions" present a fascinating look at the nature of reality, wrapped up in high-octane action sequences.

Directed by the Wachowskis and starring Keanu Reeves, the trilogy is a combination of thought-provoking philosophy and stunning visual effects that changed the landscape of science fiction cinema. The trilogy earned over $1.6 billion worldwide, solidifying its status as a cultural phenomenon.