Where to start withWestworld
2 versions · originally a film, 1973
Themes: Artificial Intelligence, Sentience, Existentialism, Loss of Control, Man vs. Machine.
Start with Westworld (Michael Crichton, 1973) — the film. Westworld exists in 2 versions across media, beginning as a film in 1973; each is ranked below by what it does best.
Westworld explores the chilling collapse of order when hyper-realistic androids in a high-tech theme park turn against their human creators.
✦ Most fans start here
Westworld (1973)
The original movie
✦ Start hereWestworld
Michael Crichton · Film · 1973
Westworld (1973) delivers a taut, focused thriller that captures the foundational dread of mechanical failure, making it perfect for viewers who prefer concise, high-concept science fiction storytelling.
2016 series
Westworld
Jonathan Nolan · Series · 2016
Westworld (2016) expands the original premise into a sprawling, philosophical odyssey, offering a deep dive into the evolution of consciousness and morality that suits viewers seeking complex, layered narratives.
Common questions
What order should I watch Westworld in?
You can watch either the 1973 Westworld movie or the 2016 Westworld television series first. They are separate adaptations, so you do not need to watch the original film to understand the plot of the television series.
Is Westworld a movie or a television show?
Westworld exists as both a 1973 movie and a 2016 television series. Both versions explore the concept of a high-tech amusement park populated by androids, but they are distinct productions with different narrative structures and character developments.
How long is the original Westworld movie?
The original Westworld movie, released in 1973, has a runtime of approximately 88 minutes. It serves as the initial source material for the concept and is independent of the 2016 Westworld television series produced later.
Should I watch the 1973 Westworld movie if I liked the 2016 television series?
Watching the 1973 Westworld movie provides historical context for the franchise. While the 2016 Westworld television series expands significantly on the premise, the film offers a foundational look at the original story and its themes.