Where to start
Cars
2 versions · originally a film, 2006
The Cars universe celebrates the charm of small-town life and the enduring bonds of friendship found along America's highways.
✦ Most fans start here
Cars (2006)

The original movie
✦ Start hereCars
Film · 2006
Cars (2006) introduces the vibrant world of Radiator Springs and Lightning McQueen’s transformative journey, serving as the essential foundation for understanding the character dynamics and setting of this automotive universe.

2006 film
Mater and the Ghostlight
John Lasseter · Film · 2006
Mater and the Ghostlight (2006) provides a lighthearted, character-focused short story that centers on Mater's playful pranks, making it a perfect companion for viewers who want more time with Radiator Springs' quirky residents.
Common questions
What order should I watch Cars and Mater and the Ghostlight?
You should watch the 2006 film Cars first to understand the setting and characters. Once you have finished the main movie, you can watch the short film Mater and the Ghostlight, which serves as a supplemental story featuring the same characters from the original Cars production.
Is Mater and the Ghostlight a sequel to Cars?
Mater and the Ghostlight is not a feature-length sequel to Cars. It is a short film released in 2006 that expands on the world established in the original Cars movie by focusing on a specific story involving the character Mater.
How long is the movie Cars?
The 2006 film Cars has a runtime of approximately 117 minutes. This duration covers the full story of Lightning McQueen as he finds himself stranded in Radiator Springs and learns important life lessons from the residents of the town.
Should I watch Mater and the Ghostlight after finishing Cars?
Yes, watching Mater and the Ghostlight after finishing Cars is the best approach. Because the short film relies on the established personalities and relationships from the 2006 film Cars, having that context makes the short story more coherent and enjoyable for the viewer.