As a film enthusiast who has spent countless hours watching movies from various genres and eras, I must say that sequels have a special place in my heart. They often offer fresh perspectives on beloved characters and stories, and sometimes even surpass their predecessors.
Occasionally, you watch a film, walk away from it, and feel there’s no need for a follow-up. At times, a sequel might be desired, but for various reasons, it never materializes. Then, to everyone’s surprise, a continuation of the original story appears years later – these are the circumstances that have produced some fantastic films. Consequently, here is a list of more than 30 sequels that weren’t initially anticipated but have since become cherished.
Puss In Boots: The Last Wish
A year following the 2010 release of the fourth Shrek film, there came Puss in Boots. At that point, it’s fair to assume many weren’t anticipating a spinoff from the sequels. Yet, we received one. Fast forward to 2022, and its follow-up, titled Puss in Boots: The Last Wish, was released.
The distinctive animation, its contemplation of mortality, the genuinely terrifying antagonist, and the familiar humor that Shrek films are known for – all contribute to Puss In Boots: The Last Wish leaving a lasting impression, an impact that isn’t commonly associated with a film that is actually a sequel to a spinoff.
Twisters
30 years after the initial release of “Twister” in 1996, there were discussions about a follow-up. However, those plans never materialized, and everyone moved forward. Fast forward to today, actors Glen Powell and Daisy Edgar-Jones, along with director Lee Isaac Chung, burst onto the scene to create the sequel titled “Twisters”. To say it was successful would be an understatement!
Top Gun: Maverick
For a long time, talk about a sequel to “Top Gun” circulated following its release in 1986, but fans waited for years without any progress. Finally, after a wait of nearly four decades, Tom Cruise and the team returned with “Top Gun: Maverick,” which proved to be incredibly successful upon its release.
The movie significantly improved the standard for aviation-based action, not only meeting but surpassing the expectations set by Top Gun in numerous aspects. In essence, the film directed by Joseph Kosinski offered a thrilling and exhilarating journey that was released three decades later, demonstrating that the desire for speed remains just as strong today.
Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol (And Everything That Followed)
To put it simply, if they had chosen to, they could have limited the Mission: Impossible series to just three movies. But luckily for us, that wasn’t the case! After the debuts of Mission: Impossible 1, 2, and 3, they decided to mix things up with the release of Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol in 2011.
Ever since, Tom Cruise has given us countless daring feats and tasks that seemed beyond reach, and this trend doesn’t seem to be slowing down. This is because whenever there’s a task at hand, we are always ready to take it on.
Toy Story 3
Initially, the first two “Toy Story” films chronicled the exciting escapades of Buzz, Woody, and their friends within Andy’s bedroom. Released in 1995 and 1999 respectively, these movies have earned a special place in the hearts of countless viewers. A decade later, in 2010, they resurfaced with “Toy Story 3”, which depicted the toys being donated to a childcare center after many years had passed since the second film.
As a gaming enthusiast, I never expected that movie would be produced, but it was, and boy, did it knock our socks off! Not only was it exceptionally well-crafted, but it also moved us to tears like nothing we’ve ever seen before.
Jumanji: Welcome To The Jungle
Instead of creating a legacy sequel where Jumanji became a video game, was it necessary? Not at all. However, did such a film materialize in the end? Absolutely. And did it captivate audiences completely? Without a doubt, yes.
The movie, featuring Dwayne Johnson, Kevin Hart, Jack Black, and Karen Gillan, offered a vibrant twist to the original plot where the jungle visited the characters’ homes instead. This innovative approach was highly appreciated, leading to two additional films inspired by the video game adaptations of the classic board game.
Cobra Kai
The demand for more “Karate Kid” stories has been consistently high, but what we got with “Cobra Kai” exceeded even the highest expectations. Instead of focusing on Daniel LaRusso, this series flips the narrative and concentrates on Johnny Lawrence, his former rival, as he attempts to establish a new dojo and make amends for past mistakes.
Initially debuting on YouTube, the series later flourished and ultimately landed on Netflix, where it has since become one of their most popular and adored shows for binge-watching.
Creed
Following six Rocky films spanning over four decades, one might assume another installment or spinoff was unnecessary. Yet, when Ryan Coogler and Michael B. Jordan stepped into the ring with the tale of Apollo Creed’s son Adonis, they hit it out of the ballpark – to mix my metaphors.
Blade Runner 2049
Thirty-five years after the initial release of Blade Runner, there was a sense of unease among people about revisiting this universe. Yet, since its premiere in 2017, Blade Runner 2049 has garnered positive reviews and audience approval. Given that it was helmed by Denis Villeneuve and featured Ryan Gosling and Harrison Ford in leading roles, perhaps this shouldn’t come as a surprise.
The Incredibles 2
It’s true that fans have longed for an Incredibles sequel. But the one we received wasn’t quite what we anticipated. After leaving us hanging at the end of the first movie, there was a 14-year gap before we saw The Incredibles 2. This new installment took the story in a surprising, captivating direction that we hadn’t expected.
Mad Max: Fury Road
Following the production of three “Mad Max” films from 1979 to 1985, it came as quite a surprise when the franchise resurfaced with such vigor in 2015. Yet, what transpired was nothing short of amazing. Not only did George Miller’s “Mad Max: Fury Road” become a box office success, but it has since been hailed as one of the greatest action movies ever made.
Fast Five
As a die-hard gamer, let me tell you that for me, Fast Five was the game-changer in the Fast and Furious franchise. The earlier Fast flicks were all about street racing and each one amped things up, but with Fast Five, they took it to uncharted territories. Post their heist in Brazil, this movie solidified its place as a standout, proving beyond doubt that sometimes the fifth installment can be the best. To this day, Fast Five remains one of, if not the best, Fast and Furious movies out there.
Prey
The Predator series debuted in 1987, and every decade since then, a new movie has been released. However, in 2022, not many were anticipating or even asking for Prey. To everyone’s surprise, the film was highly praised and served as an introduction to the exceptionally talented actress Amber Midthunder. The movie turned out to be so successful that it is now often regarded as one of the top Predator films.
Toy Story 4
If you found Toy Story 3 unexpected, then you might not have been prepared for the depth and charm of Toy Story 4. Released nine years after its predecessor, this installment takes a unique turn by focusing on Woody’s struggles adapting to life as a toy with Bonnie. It’s a heartfelt and entertaining movie that I found myself surprisingly enamored with, given the high expectations set by the previous films.
Scream (2022)
In each “Scream” movie, a different group of supporting actors appeared, but Neve Campbell, Courteney Cox, and David Arquette consistently took the lead roles. However, the 2022 version of “Scream,” marking the first project in the series not directed by Wes Craven, signified a passing of the torch. Although Sidney, Gale, and Dewey were present, this film primarily followed Melissa Barrera’s character Sam, Jenna Ortega’s Tara, and their group of friends, offering a new yet fitting chapter in the cherished horror franchise.
Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again
Indeed, there was a demand for “Mamma Mia! 2,” but I’m not sure anyone anticipated such intensity! The movie jumps between the present and the past, incorporating new ABBA tunes as well as reviving old favorites, resulting in an electrifying atmosphere that makes this sequel truly exceptional and a fitting follow-up to its cherished original.
T2: Trainspotting
In 1996, Danny Boyle’s film “Trainspotting” was warmly received by many. After a gap of 21 years, in 2017, Ewan McGregor and the rest of the cast reunited for the sequel titled “T2: Trainspotting.
Shrek 2
Shrek was a cultural phenomenon, and honestly, it still is. However, Shrek 2 came onto the scene swinging, and the story that included the antagonistic Prince Charming and Fairy Godmother is widely considered the best Shrek movie.
Paddington 2
In a straightforward manner, let me say: I’m not exaggerating; the movie “Paddington 2” is simply exceptional. A multitude of five-star ratings attest to its charm, as it stands out as a heartwarming, delightful, and cherished cinematic experience that surpassed everyone’s expectations for a sequel.
Before Sunset
Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy beautifully brought a heartwarming love story to life in Richard Linklater’s “Before Sunrise”. Unlike most romances, this one did receive a sequel. In the year 2004, they reunited once more to produce “Before Sunset”, another film that has been warmly embraced by audiences.
Sister Act 2: Back In The Habit
“Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit” – a delightful sequel to Whoopi Goldberg’s cherished “Sister Act” – offers an unexpected continuation. Although it may not hold the same affection as the original, it is jam-packed with enjoyment and brimming with enchanting musical sequences.
John Wick: Chapter 2
The recently released movie titled “John Wick” was a high-octane thrill ride that left audiences spellbound. Following its triumph, director Chad Stahelski had the opportunity to create additional installments featuring Keanu Reeves, leading to the creation of one of the most impressive action film franchises.
The Suicide Squad (2021)
After the initial “Suicide Squad” movie, I didn’t see a need or desire for another one. But then James Gunn took control of the property and effortlessly breathed new life into it. He reintroduced characters like Margot Robbie’s Harley Quinn and introduced fresh faces, such as John Cena’s Peacemaker. As a gamer, I can say that it felt like getting a much-anticipated sequel to an amazing game.
Gremlins 2: The New Batch
Six years following the debut of “Gremlins,” we received another tale featuring these tiny creatures. Similar to its forerunner, it’s a chilling yet entertaining movie that has become a favorite among viewers.
Halloween (2018)
Back in 1978, I first encountered the chilling figure of Michael Myers in the groundbreaking slasher movie, Halloween, with Jamie Lee Curtis leading the way. Since then, we’ve seen numerous sequels in 1981, 1982, 1988, 1989, 1995, 1998, 2002, 2007, and 2009. Interestingly, the 2018 version titled simply Halloween, is the third film to carry that name alone. This raised some doubts about whether we truly needed another installment in this horror franchise. However, I was pleasantly surprised by David Gordon Green’s take on it, as it injected a fresh dose of excitement into the series once more.
Magic Mike XXL
Magic Mike XXL” is a film that defies expectations in terms of quality, given its premise as a sequel about male dancers. Initially, one might not anticipate such a movie’s success, but “Magic Mike” proved itself to be quite popular. Later on, we were treated to its excellent sequel, where the beloved strippers embark on a journey to attend a stripper convention.
Thor: Ragnarok
If you’ve followed the Marvel movies sequentially, you might remember that “Thor: The Dark World” was somewhat of a downer in the series. Before diving into Thor’s third movie, many viewers may have felt a sense of unease. But under the guidance of director Taika Waititi, the third Thor film made a sharp turn towards comedy, showcasing Chris Hemsworth’s comedic talent and revitalizing the franchise centered on the Norse god.
Terminator 2: Judgement Day
Indeed, you might recall that in “The Terminator,” Arnold Schwarzenegger’s character famously declared, “I’ll be back.” True to his word, he indeed returned as the title character in 1991, making a spectacular comeback. To this day, it remains one of the most highly regarded sequels, with the Terminator continuing to reappear on screen on multiple occasions following that return.
Psycho II
Although it may not have received as much critical praise as its forerunner, “Psycho II” has a dedicated cult fanbase. This movie delves into the life of Norman Bates twenty years following the incidents in the first film, providing a captivating exploration of what transpired two decades after the chilling events at the Bates Motel.
Predator 2
Predator 2 is often revered as a timeless favorite. Although it doesn’t receive the same level of recognition as the original, the 1990 sequel featuring Danny Glover continues to win over numerous admirers.
Home Alone 2: Lost In New York
Back in the day, I found myself utterly captivated by the original “Home Alone.” It quickly became one of my favorite holiday films. Two years later, instead of being left at home alone, Kevin McCallister got lost in the bustling city of New York. The hilarious escapades that followed made this sequel just as iconic and cherished as its predecessor.
Aliens
Following the release of Ridley Scott’s 1979 masterpiece “Alien”, James Cameron assumed the directorial role for the subsequent film, titled “Aliens”, in 1986. This isn’t just a remarkable sequel; it stands as one of the greatest sequels ever made. Moreover, this isn’t merely an outstanding sequel; it is also undeniably one of the best films produced during the 1980s.
As a gaming enthusiast, I must admit that from retro hits to modern masterpieces, there’s been an unexpected surge of sequels that initially left me wondering if they were truly necessary. Yet, as it turns out, I couldn’t be more grateful for their existence. And I reckon many fellow gamers share this sentiment too.
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2024-11-14 01:38