Where to start withFargo
2 versions · originally a film, 1996
Themes: Midwestern Setting, Moral Corruption, Incompetence, Desperation, Violence.
Start with Fargo (Joel Coen, 1996) — the film. Fargo exists in 2 versions across media, beginning as a film in 1996; each is ranked below by what it does best.
The Fargo universe explores the collision of polite, Midwestern stoicism with the brutal, senseless absurdity of desperate criminal greed.
✦ Most fans start here
Fargo (1996)
The original movie
✦ Start hereFargo
Joel Coen · Film · 1996
Fargo (1996) serves as the definitive cinematic blueprint, offering a singular, tightly paced narrative that perfectly balances dark, dry humor with the quiet resolve of its iconic protagonist.
2014 series
Fargo
Noah Hawley · Series · 2014
Fargo (2014) expands the original’s thematic DNA into a sprawling anthology format, providing a deeper dive into the region's eccentricities while maintaining its signature blend of malice and morality.
Common questions
Is the Fargo TV series a direct sequel to the 1996 movie?
The 2014 Fargo TV series is an anthology series that shares the same name and thematic tone as the 1996 Fargo movie. While they exist in the same universe, the show features new characters and different storylines in each season rather than acting as a direct continuation.
What is the correct order to watch Fargo?
You can watch the 1996 Fargo movie and the 2014 Fargo TV series independently. The movie serves as a standalone feature, and the television series functions as an anthology where each season tells a unique story, meaning there is no required chronological viewing order for the two projects.
Should I watch the Fargo movie before starting the 2014 TV show?
While the 2014 Fargo TV series operates as a standalone anthology, watching the 1996 Fargo movie first provides helpful context for the tone, style, and dark humor that defines the franchise. It is not strictly necessary for understanding the plot of the show, but it enhances the overall experience.
How long is the original Fargo movie?
The original Fargo movie, released in 1996, has a runtime of approximately 98 minutes. This feature-length film established the foundation for the franchise, which later expanded into the 2014 Fargo TV series that explores similar themes across multiple seasons of television.