Best Horror Legacy Sequels of the 2020s, Ranked

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It’s clear that classic horror films can be incredibly successful when handled skillfully. Series such as Scream and Saw have experienced a resurgence thanks to thoughtful follow-ups that seamlessly blend fresh narratives with the beloved aspects that set them apart within the genre. Unfortunately, there are some classics yet to be revisited and others whose attempts at revival haven’t quite hit the mark.

As a devoted horror movie enthusiast, I must say that the 2020s have been nothing short of terrifyingly thrilling when it comes to horror films! Legacy horror sequels have played a significant role in this exhilarating era that the genre is experiencing right now. Let’s delve into some of the finest legacy horror sequels of the decade thus far, shall we?

7
‘Scream’ (2022)

In the story, viewers are transported to Woodsboro over two decades since the brutal murders committed by Stu Macher and Billy Loomis. A high school student named Tara Carpenter experiences a brutal attack from Ghostface, yet miraculously survives. Her sister Sam is compelled to return to town, confronting her haunting past. It’s revealed that she is Billy’s biological daughter, and it appears someone is targeting her for a follow-up or sequel of sorts.

An Icon Resurfaced and Stayed Where It Deserves

Following the success of Wes Craven’s 2011 movie Scream 4, it seemed that a fifth Scream film was imminent. Sadly, due to several complications like Craven’s passing and scandals involving The Weinstein Company, the project found itself in a state of prolonged development. However, things changed when Spyglass Media Group acquired the intellectual property and Paramount Pictures took on distribution duties.

The outcome was an exciting endeavor that enthusiasts of the Scream series couldn’t get enough of. The 2022 version of Scream effectively brought the franchise back to its origins, boasting a rejuvenated cast capable of breathing new life into one of the longest-lasting slasher series in cinematic history.

6
‘Ghostbusters: Afterlife’ (2021)

Ghostbusters: Afterlife

The narrative centers around Callie, Trevor, and Phoebe Spengler – the daughter and grandchildren of the renowned ghostbuster, Egon, who previously resided on a farm in Oklahoma before his unexpected demise. Following his death, they inherit the farm. When Phoebe starts encountering peculiar occurrences, she comes to understand that her grandfather was an extraordinary scientist with extensive knowledge about capturing ghosts.

An Underrated and Nostalgia-Driven Sequel

Indeed, it caters to die-hard fans (fan service). Yet, not everyone may find it essential. Regardless, “Ghostbusters: Afterlife” is an enjoyable movie that skillfully maintains the spirit of the original series while introducing fresh characters. McKenna Grace delivers a captivating portrayal of Phoebe, making her the most intriguing character since the franchise took a break in the late ’80s.

5
‘Saw X’ (2023)

In the movie, X presents a scenario where viewers are encouraged to disregard their sense of time progression. The storyline reveals that John Kramer, who was believed to be deceased, is alive and seeks a supposed cancer cure in Mexico. Unfortunately, it turns out to be a deception, pushing John into an unrepentant frenzy. Determined to exact his revenge, he targets those responsible for the scam, demonstrating his exceptional ingenuity in the process.

Explaining a Villain’s Motive

The tenth movie in the “Saw” series retains very little of the original film’s essence, but this isn’t a problem. Kramer’s character warranted a more substantial backstory than just brief appearances and outlandish methods to reintroduce him into the franchise. Additionally, it serves as a prequel to most movies in the series, but it unfolds after the 2004 “Saw” film, making it particularly significant to the villain’s motivations throughout the entire franchise.

4
‘Candyman’ (2021)

In the movie titled “Candyman,” a Chicago-based artist named Anthony McCoy becomes intrigued by an urban myth concerning Helen Lyle, the student who delved into the lore of Candyman in the initial film. As more residents within the town begin to summon this slasher with a hook, Anthony’s fascination with both Helen and Candyman intensifies.

A Superb Revamping of the Character

Under the guidance of director Nia DaCosta, who collaborated with Jordan Peele and Win Rosenfeld on the script, the 2021 release titled Candyman serves as a sequel to Bernard Rose’s 1992 original. Despite adhering to the rules set by its predecessor, it carves out its unique identity with stunning visual aesthetics, a compelling lead performance by Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, and an impactful and contemporary application of horror motifs. This film, titled Candyman, is exceptionally terrifying without relying on cheap jump scares or gimmicky special effects.

3
‘Alien: Romulus’ (2024)

The story “Alien: Romulus” unfolds amidst the timeframe spanning between the occurrences depicted in “Alien” (1979) and “Aliens” (1986). Amidst the ongoing colonization efforts by Weyland-Yutani Corporation across various celestial bodies, discontent among the colonists runs high. Rain Carradine, seeking a more favorable habitat for herself and her android sibling, Andy, is one such dissenter. A cluster of fellow colonists manages to persuade her into joining their quest for equipment that could facilitate interplanetary travel. However, these vessels are discovered in an abandoned space station where a catastrophic event transpired, resulting in the deaths of everyone present – a fact which our protagonists overlook as they venture into the lair of xenomorphic face-hugging creatures.

The Sequel ‘Alien’ Fans Deserved

In 2024, Fede Álvarez’s follow-up to the Alien franchise is hailed as one of the top movies and most financially successful horror films of the year. While it adheres to certain franchise conventions, its style breaks new ground by presenting an unparalleled grittiness and darkness unlike anything seen in previous Ridley Scott installments. Titled Alien: Romulus, this film delivers a bone-chilling horror experience with a captivating main character, expendable supporting actors, and a climactic monster that honors the Alien-verse legacy.

2
‘Beetlejuice Beetlejuice’ (2024)

In the sequel, we follow Lydia Deetz, once a goth teenager from the initial film, now a mother grappling with a strained bond with her daughter Astrid. However, when Lydia’s stepfather Charles passes away, she returns to Winter River, and Astrid accompanies her for the funeral. The complication arises when Astrid, like Lydia, possesses psychic abilities, which a ghost exploits. Desperate to help, Lydia turns to Betelgeuse, the ghost with the most notoriety, who’s dealing with his own issues too.

The Sequel That Took Almost 40 Years

For years, a follow-up to “Beetlejuice” lingered in the realm of unfinished projects until the stars miraculously aligned, allowing director Tim Burton to assemble his key collaborators. The result was a reimagined plot with fresh characters, all wrapped up in a nostalgic visual aesthetic reminiscent of the original’s charm. Michael Keaton, physical effects, and an abundance of Easter eggs made it a delightful throwback that broke box office records in 2024, earning nearly half a billion dollars.

1
‘Evil Dead Rise’ (2023)

In “Evil Dead Rise,” a powerful earthquake in Los Angeles causes a fissure to open in a parking lot. Beth is staying with her sister Ellie, along with Ellie’s kids, Danny, Bridget, and Kassie. As they bring home takeout and park in the lot, they stumble upon an underground chamber filled with religious artifacts. Curious, Danny picks up a record and, unknowingly, triggers its magic to summon malevolent entities known as Deadites. These entities proceed to take control of Ellie and everyone else in the building.

A Worthy Mashup of Franchise Tropes

Sam Raimi steps back as director but continues his role as producer for one of the most successful horror sequels in recent times, helmed by Lee Cronin. This new “Evil Dead” installment offers a thrilling experience with just the right amount of humor that long-time fans will appreciate and visual effects so skillfully crafted they may leave you feeling uneasy. The film proved to be highly successful for Warner Bros., earning close to $150 million at the box office, reflecting the demand for this franchise after the beloved series “Ash vs Evil Dead” concluded.

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2025-01-05 23:02