The Rat Trilogy
Featuring the charismatic Ivor Novello, The Rat Trilogy delves into the dramatic and thrilling life of Pierre Boucheron, better known as "The Rat." Set against the alluring yet perilous backdrop of Parisian underworld society in the 1920s, this trilogy charts the rise and fall of a man whose charm and cunning capture the hearts and imaginations of all who meet him. In The Rat (1925), audiences are introduced to Pierre, a notorious yet dashing thief navigating a world of crime and temptation. His journey continues in The Triumph of the Rat (1926), where the stakes grow higher as Pierre faces both personal and existential challenges. The trilogy culminates with The Return of the Rat (1929), where Pierre confronts his past and legacy in a final, poignant confrontation. Novello's magnetic performance and the atmospheric cinematography make The Rat Trilogy a landmark of silent cinema, exploring timeless themes of love, loyalty, and survival in a world that seldom forgives.
The Rat Trilogy Movies: Timeline & Franchise Overview
The The Rat Trilogy franchise spans roughly 4 years, featuring 3 interconnected films that build a shared narrative universe.
From its earliest installment to the most recent release, the series has expanded its world-building while introducing new characters and story arcs. Notable entries such as The Rat demonstrate the franchise’s ability to maintain audience interest over time.
Franchise Quality Benchmark
Across all entries, the series holds an average audience rating of 7.2. While many long-running franchises experience declining reception, this series continues to deliver memorable cinematic moments.
Viewing Order Strategy
Most viewers prefer watching the films in release order, which reflects how audiences originally experienced the evolving story.
However, a chronological viewing order can provide deeper insight into the timeline of events within the The Rat Trilogy universe.
Timeline & Watch Order
We recommend watching the The Rat Trilogy franchise in the following order to fully experience the narrative expansion.

The Rat
When bored courtesan Zelie de Chaumet begs her lover, the corrupt and powerful Stetz, to take her slumming, the pair encounter Pierre Boucheron, alias 'The Rat'...

The Triumph of the Rat
Pierre Boucheron, alias 'The Rat' and a former underworld notoriety, is now living the high life as the kept man of Zelie de Chaumet. But when she learns he is ...

The Return of the Rat
The rich, amoral Zelie is married to Pierre Boucheron, "The Rat" - but her interest in another man is an open secret. Forced to defend his honour, the Rat takes...
Common Questions about The Rat Trilogy
How many movies are in the The Rat Trilogy?
There are currently 3 movies in the The Rat Trilogy, starting from The Rat to the latest release, The Return of the Rat.
What is the best order to watch the The Rat Trilogy?
The best way to watch the The Rat Trilogy is usually in release order: starting with The Rat and ending with The Return of the Rat. Check our timeline for the full chronological breakdown.
Which is the highest-rated movie in the The Rat Trilogy?
According to movieMx ratings, the fans have a strong preference for The Rat in this franchise.