The Scene

I Need a Sequel: 5 Films That SHOULD Get Follow-Ups

Published on Monday, January 16 2012
Written by Tallie Johnson

Believe it or not, sequels can sometimes be just as good if not better than the first. Yes, there have been tragic failures (we did not need Speed 2) or sequels that seemed like a repeat of the movie (wasn’t Hangover 2 the same as Hangover but in a different city?). The key to success often seems to be when the story and plot evolve. Let’s not forget the enjoyable Sister Act 2 as a classic example of a different story, but the same theme -- the nuns were back but now helping out a youth choir.

Here are 5 other films that could have some great follow-ups if done right:

 

1. Bridesmaids: Yes, we need more laughter from an all-female cast, especially one with so many comedy veterans that create a dynamic team. There are so many different scenarios the new stories can take when it comes to weddings, which is always drama and emotion-filled. And seeing Kristen Wiig portraying a new "bridezilla" could be quite amusing.

2. Rise of the Planet of the Apes:  Part of the movie’s strength lay in building the characters and the relations between the ape Caesar and James Franco. The ending (spoiler alert!) with the apes in the wilderness, now with their leader and able to talk, leaves the audience wanting to see a real battle ensue. A sequel is almost necessary because you wonder, well, are the apes going to take over or not? Yes, it is a remade classic. But the timeless tale of suspense and human emotion done right never gets old.

3. District 9: If all that craziness happened in District 9, what would District 10 be like? The Sci-Fi Movie with depth. This is one of those films that strikes the audience at the core of existence. In using aliens, it becomes a metaphor for greater issues of wars and the human inclination to take over those weaker. This can easily be further explored and taken to the next level. The sequel would not be a repeat but rather a continuation of a subject that needs to be discussed.

4. Finding Nemo: Pixar has a great ability to do sequels and expand on the storytelling for characters that grow. Finding Nemo was an epic journey about the love of a family. This is something that needs another run.

5. Toy Story IV: I’m kidding. Every movie has a stopping point, but Pixar did nail third one...

 

We know for a fact the sequels of superhero and action movies will continue, especially during the summer. Let’s face it ,certain movies will not know when to stop -- how many installments are there of The Fast and the Furious? But some stories of heart and character can live on brilliantly in sequels if, rather than recycling the plot, the time is taken to tell another part of the story.

What movies do YOU want to have sequels?

 

- Tallie Johnson, YH Staff