With films today, it’s all about the sequel. Have you found yourself watching a film and when the credits roll, you’re already excited for the next installment? In today’s market, there are many superhero and animated films that have created a franchise, but even though producing a sequel is common, the results can be hit or miss.
There are however some sequels that can not only stand out on their own as great films, but improve upon their predecessors. Here are 5 of those films.
Terminator 2: Judgement Day (1991)
The original was a low-budget sci-fi action film that gave us the famous catch phrase ‘’I’ll be back’’. What James Cameron did with Terminator 2: Judgement Day was to use the slasher concept and make this film into a blockbuster hit, filled with memorable dialogue, and cutting edge special effects. Being influential and engaging, Terminator 2 is a shining example of how a sequel is done right.
Toy Story 2 (1999)
With the voice talent from Tom Hanks and Tim Allen leading the cast, this sequel changed the way cartoons were made in the digital age. This 1999 film piggybacked on the original’s success whilst confidently standing out as a great film all on its own. With a unique story, filled with action and introduction of new characters, it was a classic all around.
Aliens (1986)
Legendary director James Cameron changed the tone and style of this sequel, by making it a military action film whilst still filled with raw energy and gothic horror. Both Alien and Aliens rank as some of the best science fiction films of all time as they captivated audiences.
The Godfather: Part II (1974)
Francis Ford Coppola’s The Godfather is one of the greatest films ever made, telling the story of a ruthless and cunning Italian-American crime family. The sequel defied expectations as it was just as engaging and illustrious as the first. Following the story of Don Vito Corleone’s early rise to power and his son Michaels’s ascension as a crime family ruler, some have argued the sequel is superior to the original.
Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan (1982)
The first installment of this hugely famous franchise was a disappointment to many fans, as the film featured more dialogue than action. For the sequel, Nicholas Meyer took a big budget cut and managed to deliver the definitive Star Trek film. As a sequel to both the first film and a classic episode of the original series, The Wrath of Khan is an action-packed thriller that set the bar for a very different kind of Star Trek movie, and one that would serve as the template for all future sequels.
There have been some fantastic sequels produced, which is your favourite? We’re also very much looking forward to the horror movies that are yet to come! If you have any moving images you would like transferred onto a DVD format, get in touch with Cine2DVD Transfers who are happy to help with any enquiries.