All 'Shaft' Movies In Order
Donning a timeless leather jacket, John Shaft has strutted through five decades of cinema with undeniable swagger. From Richard Roundtree's street-smart original to Samuel L. Jackson's bombastic portrayal and the techno-savvy 2019 reboot, this franchise has leapt boldly across eras. Even the short-lived 1973 Shaft television series deserves respect even though it lacked some of the film's edge.
Based on the novel series by Ernest Tidyman, what began as a private detective's mission in Harlem evolved through jet-setting kidnappings, family reunions, and generational alliances, always wrapped in attitude. So, let's step into the Shaft canon to appreciate how each entry builds on the legacy. Here's how to watch all Shaft movies in release order on platforms like Apple TV+ and Prime Video.
Shaft begins with private detective John Shaft (Richard Roundtree) prowling Harlem with purpose. When a notorious crime boss hires him to find his kidnapped daughter, Shaft dives deep into the criminal underworld, taking on the Italian mob, rival gangs, and the NYPD with equal parts brains and bravado. The story weaves through smoky bars, cluttered backrooms, and shadowy rooftops, where Shaft uses fists, wit, and pure presence to get what he needs.
More than just a detective story, Shaft redefined cool at a time when Hollywood rarely handed Black leads this kind of power. It's still considered a foundational film for both the blaxploitation era and modern Black action heroes. Even decades later, Shaft's charisma and sharp dialogue hold up, making this film an essential watch for anyone who loves classic crime thrillers like Serpico (1973).
Shaft's Big Score! sees the titular hero diving into a deadly power struggle in the Harlem underworld. When a close friend is murdered, and $250,000 goes missing, Shaft finds himself caught between rival gangs, dirty cops, and mobsters looking to cash in. He navigates upscale apartments, seedy funeral homes, all while keeping his cool and dodging bullets. As the stakes rise, so does the action.
The follow-up traded in some of the first film's noir grit for sleeker, bigger set pieces and more explosive confrontations. While slightly flashier than the original, the movie still delivers Roundtree's signature cool and clever one-liners, making it a worthy continuation of the saga. This entry is ideal for viewers who enjoy action-packed crime movies like The French Connection (1971).
Shaft in Africa trades Harlem's familiar streets for espionage-style storytelling. Recruited by a mysterious agency, Shaft heads to Africa to expose a human trafficking ring smuggling laborers into Europe. Disguised as a local, he infiltrates the operation from within while dodging assassins, navigating betrayals, and outwitting sadistic villains with spy gadgets and unshakable confidence.
While not as well-received as its predecessors, the movie, which basically turns the titular hero into a globe-trotting operative, has earned a cult following for taking a bold swing with the story. Even if it falters in tone, Roundtree's performance keeps audiences invested from start to finish. It's best suited for viewers who love spy thrillers with a touch of swagger, similar to James Bond in the early '70s.
Shaft (2000) follows John Shaft II (Samuel L. Jackson), nephew of the original character. After a racially motivated murder, Shaft quits the NYPD to pursue justice on his own terms, targeting a privileged killer and a ruthless drug lord. He eventually crosses paths with his uncle (Roundtree) and the pair decide to confront the corrupt systems together.
The movie is filled with street chases and Jackson's signature verbal takedowns. The reboot was a box office hit, which was due in large part to a solid story complete with an homage to the 1971 film, and Jackson brilliantly taking the lead as the titular character. It's perfect for fans of urban action comedies like Bad Boys (1995), who enjoy fast-paced crime thrillers with humor.
Shaft (2019) follows FBI analyst John "J.J." Shaft III (Jessie T. Usher) who reconnects with his dad, John Shaft II (Jackson), when a friend's overdose becomes a suspected murder. Teaming up to investigate, the duo uncovers a conspiracy tied to cybercrime, drug cartels, and a shady rehab empire. Along the way, they recruit the OG Shaft (Roundtree), turning the investigation into a family affair.
It's a buddy-comedy-action hybrid that leans into generational culture clashes and playful jabs, which results in the stakes sometimes taking a back seat to banter. Critics weren't sold on the tonal mashup, calling it uneven and overly comedic. But audiences found fun in the fresh dynamic and sharp dialogue. It's ideal for viewers who enjoy action-comedies with family ties, similar to Rush Hour (1998).
