Summary
- M3GAN expands into a horror shared universe with a sequel and spin-off film set for release in the coming years.
- The spin-off film, SOULM8TE, features Lily Sullivan as an android turned deadly soulmate, adding a technological twist to the horror genre.
- Horror franchises are evolving beyond single storylines, with a growing trend of interconnected films and universes being embraced by fans.
As a seasoned movie buff with over three decades of cinematic experiences under my belt, I must say that the evolution of horror franchises into interconnected universes is nothing short of exhilarating! The ’80s and ’90s may have had their charm, but it’s the present day that truly excites me.
The hit 2023 horror movie “M3GAN” is aiming to grow into a shared horror universe, as plans for both a sequel and spin-off are underway. “M3GAN” made waves when it premiered in early January 2023, earning a staggering $181 million worldwide on a budget of only $12 million. The sequel, titled “M3GAN 2.0”, is scheduled for release on June 27, 2025, and the spin-off film will follow six months later, with its lead actor already confirmed.
As per Bloody Discussing reports, Lily Sullivan, known for her role in the major horror release of 2023, Evil Dead Rise, has been cast as the main character in the spin-off of M3GAN named SOULM8TE. In this movie, Sullivan will portray an android obtained by a man to help him grieve the loss of his late wife. Over time, the android transforms from a harmless love companion into a dangerous soulmate. Kate Dolan, director of 2021’s You Are Not My Mother, is set to direct and rework the original script penned by Rafael Jordan. SOULM8TE is marketed as an “erotic thriller with a technological twist” and is scheduled for release in theaters on January 2, 2026.
A Growing Techno Horror Universe
SOULM8TE is part of a modern trend where horror franchises expand their scope beyond a single narrative and create entire universes based on an initial successful concept. In contrast to the ’80s and ’90s, when films like Friday the 13th and Halloween mostly followed one main storyline, spin-offs such as Friday the 13th Part V: A New Beginning and Halloween III: Season of the Witch received unfavorable reactions from fans. However, today’s horror enthusiasts appreciate and even crave multiple storylines within a franchise. For instance, The Conjuring Universe encompasses four primary films, with the upcoming finale, but also includes three Annabelle movies and two titles in the The Nun series. Recently, a prequel titled A Quiet Place Day One has been released, set before the production of A Quiet Place Part III, which is currently under development.
The movie M3GAN, initially released in January, became a surprise success due to an effective marketing strategy and favorable reviews. Its sequel, M3GAN 2.0, has been moved up to the summer blockbuster season. In contrast, the upcoming film SOULM8TE will mark the return of this franchise to its original roots as the first release of 2026. Although fans have to wait for both movies, there’s speculation that the “evil doll” genre could expand further and even collaborate with other popular franchises like Child’s Play. With Chucky and M3GAN already interacting on social media, a collaboration seems imminent.
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2024-08-11 19:04