Star Wars, James Bond, and Corporate America's Hunt for Bigger, Not BetterStudios have moved from producing mere sequels to expansive franchise strategies involving legacy-quels, spinoffs, and prequels.
Inside Out 2 becomes biggest film of the year on second week of releaseInside Out 2 surpasses box office expectations, nearing $1bn mark within two weeks.
The golden age of remakes is here - does anyone remember when we had original stories?The entertainment landscape is dominated by remakes and reboots of classic titles.
The 32 most anticipated movies of 20252025 features a rich lineup of sequels and original films, promising an exciting cinematic year.
Which of These Movies Are Actually Coming Out in 2026?CinemaCon highlights the dominance of IP-driven franchises in upcoming films, signaling a preference for sequels over original content.
6 Movie Sequels We Deserve (But Never Got) | HackerNoonSeveral successful movies have left audiences wanting sequels that never materialized, despite strong narratives and unresolved storylines.
Star Wars, James Bond, and Corporate America's Hunt for Bigger, Not BetterStudios have moved from producing mere sequels to expansive franchise strategies involving legacy-quels, spinoffs, and prequels.
Inside Out 2 becomes biggest film of the year on second week of releaseInside Out 2 surpasses box office expectations, nearing $1bn mark within two weeks.
The golden age of remakes is here - does anyone remember when we had original stories?The entertainment landscape is dominated by remakes and reboots of classic titles.
The 32 most anticipated movies of 20252025 features a rich lineup of sequels and original films, promising an exciting cinematic year.
Which of These Movies Are Actually Coming Out in 2026?CinemaCon highlights the dominance of IP-driven franchises in upcoming films, signaling a preference for sequels over original content.
6 Movie Sequels We Deserve (But Never Got) | HackerNoonSeveral successful movies have left audiences wanting sequels that never materialized, despite strong narratives and unresolved storylines.
Why Disney isn't taking big swings anymoreDisney's current box office strategy heavily relies on sequels and reboots.CEO Bob Iger emphasizes familiarity in content to attract audiences.Upcoming Disney films continue to focus on classic stories and characters.
The 16 Most Rebooted And Remade Movies In Hollywood HistoryReboots are different from sequels; Hollywood's safe bet for franchises; expect more reboots in the future.
Same old stories: is this going to be Hollywood's laziest year ever?This year's movie trailers for the Super Bowl highlight a concerning trend of sequels and reboots dominating summer releases.
Why Disney isn't taking big swings anymoreDisney's current box office strategy heavily relies on sequels and reboots.CEO Bob Iger emphasizes familiarity in content to attract audiences.Upcoming Disney films continue to focus on classic stories and characters.
The 16 Most Rebooted And Remade Movies In Hollywood HistoryReboots are different from sequels; Hollywood's safe bet for franchises; expect more reboots in the future.
Same old stories: is this going to be Hollywood's laziest year ever?This year's movie trailers for the Super Bowl highlight a concerning trend of sequels and reboots dominating summer releases.
'Another Simple Favor' review: Blake Lively and Anna Kendrick are having a blast in this even campier sequel'Another Simple Favor' features Blake Lively and Anna Kendrick's returning roles, delivered with compelling storylines and heightened drama set in Italy.
The Accountant 2 Can Not Be Taken SeriouslyThe Accountant 2 blends action with themes of autism, though it maintains a Hollywood perspective that focuses on savantism.
The Best Sequels of the 21st Century: 'Blade Runner 2049,' 'The Last Jedi,' and MoreHollywood's sequels can be creatively impressive, showcasing new ideas and character depth.Some sequels successfully revitalize cinematic universes and narratives.
Gladiator 2's first script made Russell Crowe a time-traveling zombie warriorMaximus was originally to return in a sequel script that never materialized due to the challenge of reviving a dead character.
Review: 'Smile 2' flirts with gross-out horror masterpiece status"Smile 2" is a successful sequel that blends horror with a commentary on fame, highlighted by Naomi Scott's standout performance.
'Another Simple Favor' review: Blake Lively and Anna Kendrick are having a blast in this even campier sequel'Another Simple Favor' features Blake Lively and Anna Kendrick's returning roles, delivered with compelling storylines and heightened drama set in Italy.
The Accountant 2 Can Not Be Taken SeriouslyThe Accountant 2 blends action with themes of autism, though it maintains a Hollywood perspective that focuses on savantism.
The Best Sequels of the 21st Century: 'Blade Runner 2049,' 'The Last Jedi,' and MoreHollywood's sequels can be creatively impressive, showcasing new ideas and character depth.Some sequels successfully revitalize cinematic universes and narratives.
Gladiator 2's first script made Russell Crowe a time-traveling zombie warriorMaximus was originally to return in a sequel script that never materialized due to the challenge of reviving a dead character.
Review: 'Smile 2' flirts with gross-out horror masterpiece status"Smile 2" is a successful sequel that blends horror with a commentary on fame, highlighted by Naomi Scott's standout performance.
Will Dune: Messiah be Villeneuve's crowning achievement, or the moment the spice runs dry?Denis Villeneuve's adaptation of Dune excels amidst Hollywood's trend of disappointing sci-fi sequels, combining grandeur with essential themes of existence.
Could 'Beetlejuice 3' Actually Happen? Here's What Tim Burton ThinksBeetlejuice Beetlejuice's box office success raises hopes for a third film sequel after 36 years since the original.
Gladiator 2' Review: Ridley Scott's Epic Is Glorious ExcessPaul Mescal shows promise as an actor in "Gladiator II," but falls short of Russell Crowe's iconic performance.
'Gladiator II' Review: Paul Mescal Enters the Colosseum in a Dull Retread of the Original"Gladiator" was a successful blend of modern and traditional filmmaking elements, while its sequel struggles to reclaim the original's emotional and artistic depth.
Jumanji 3 gets a 2026 release date, as if creativity wasn't dead enough alreadyA third Jumanji film is set for release on December 11, 2026, with original cast and director returning.
10 Movies That Never Got The Sequel They DeservedFans often crave sequels for standout films that never receive them.
Will Dune: Messiah be Villeneuve's crowning achievement, or the moment the spice runs dry?Denis Villeneuve's adaptation of Dune excels amidst Hollywood's trend of disappointing sci-fi sequels, combining grandeur with essential themes of existence.
Could 'Beetlejuice 3' Actually Happen? Here's What Tim Burton ThinksBeetlejuice Beetlejuice's box office success raises hopes for a third film sequel after 36 years since the original.
Gladiator 2' Review: Ridley Scott's Epic Is Glorious ExcessPaul Mescal shows promise as an actor in "Gladiator II," but falls short of Russell Crowe's iconic performance.
'Gladiator II' Review: Paul Mescal Enters the Colosseum in a Dull Retread of the Original"Gladiator" was a successful blend of modern and traditional filmmaking elements, while its sequel struggles to reclaim the original's emotional and artistic depth.
Jumanji 3 gets a 2026 release date, as if creativity wasn't dead enough alreadyA third Jumanji film is set for release on December 11, 2026, with original cast and director returning.
10 Movies That Never Got The Sequel They DeservedFans often crave sequels for standout films that never receive them.
One former Bethesda dev thinks Starfield 2 is going to be "one hell of a game", so it's a shame we probably won't get to play it for another decadeStarfield may have flaws, but a sequel could significantly improve upon it by learning from past mistakes.
The 15 Most Exciting Game Releases Of 20252025 is shaping up to be an exciting year for gamers with highly anticipated sequels and innovative indie titles.
Sniper Elite: Resistance is Prime AA Gaming - ReviewSniper Elite: Resistance is enjoyable but lacks significant innovation, functioning more as an expansion than a true sequel.
25 Years Ago, Pokemon Set the Gold Standard For RPG Sequels and Few Have Come Close SincePokémon Gold & Silver revolutionized the series by expanding gameplay with a new region and enhanced graphics, making it a landmark sequel.
The Simpsons Hit & Run Dev Gives Tragic Update On Why We Never Got A SequelRadical Entertainment had the opportunity to create three sequels to The Simpsons: Hit & Run, but a mysterious decision halted the project.
Don't get too upset, but the devs behind The Simpsons: Hit & Run apparently could have made three sequels if it weren't for some anonymous weirdo who decided against itThe Simpsons: Hit & Run had potential for sequels that were never realized due to a publisher's unexpected decision.
One former Bethesda dev thinks Starfield 2 is going to be "one hell of a game", so it's a shame we probably won't get to play it for another decadeStarfield may have flaws, but a sequel could significantly improve upon it by learning from past mistakes.
The 15 Most Exciting Game Releases Of 20252025 is shaping up to be an exciting year for gamers with highly anticipated sequels and innovative indie titles.
Sniper Elite: Resistance is Prime AA Gaming - ReviewSniper Elite: Resistance is enjoyable but lacks significant innovation, functioning more as an expansion than a true sequel.
25 Years Ago, Pokemon Set the Gold Standard For RPG Sequels and Few Have Come Close SincePokémon Gold & Silver revolutionized the series by expanding gameplay with a new region and enhanced graphics, making it a landmark sequel.
The Simpsons Hit & Run Dev Gives Tragic Update On Why We Never Got A SequelRadical Entertainment had the opportunity to create three sequels to The Simpsons: Hit & Run, but a mysterious decision halted the project.
Don't get too upset, but the devs behind The Simpsons: Hit & Run apparently could have made three sequels if it weren't for some anonymous weirdo who decided against itThe Simpsons: Hit & Run had potential for sequels that were never realized due to a publisher's unexpected decision.
James Cameron Explains the "Vicious" Reason for the 'Avatar 3' Title ChangeAvatar: The Way of Water emphasizes emotional depth through character dynamics, particularly within the Sully family amid conflict and loss.
30 Years Ago, The Follow-Up To The Worst 'Highlander' Sequel Was Somehow WorseHighlander 3's mediocrity is arguably worse than Highlander 2's chaos, despite being technically better.
James Cameron Explains the "Vicious" Reason for the 'Avatar 3' Title ChangeAvatar: The Way of Water emphasizes emotional depth through character dynamics, particularly within the Sully family amid conflict and loss.
30 Years Ago, The Follow-Up To The Worst 'Highlander' Sequel Was Somehow WorseHighlander 3's mediocrity is arguably worse than Highlander 2's chaos, despite being technically better.
10 Most Anticipated Anime of 20252025 promises an exciting lineup of anime series, with numerous second seasons and new titles to look forward to as the genre thrives.
Not a single original film broke the box office top 15 in 2024Franchises and sequels dominated the 2024 box office, with no original films in the top 15.
Joker 2 is bombing at the box officeThe sequel 'Joker: Folie à Deux' experiences a significant drop in box office performance and critical reception compared to the original.Director Todd Phillips announces 'Joker: Folie à Deux' will conclude the franchise and his involvement with the DC Universe.
James Cameron keeps teasing Avatar 3's evil Na'vi clan and 'brave choices' and I think my boy Jake Sully might be cookedJames Cameron promises surprising elements and bold choices in Avatar: Fire and Ash, expected to outshine competition in 2025.
Say goodbye to any hopes you had of more original Disney films, because Moana 2 had a ridiculous record breaking weekendDisney's sequel strategy is reinforced by Moana 2's record-breaking opening weekend, signaling a shift away from original films.
The Top Movies of 2024: Wicked' and Nine SequelsFranchise fatigue in Hollywood persists as sequels dominate the box office again, despite initial hopes for original stories.
Summer box office 2024: what were the big winners and losers?Disney's box office resurgence demonstrates the enduring power of established franchises and sequels in cinema's recovery.
Not a single original film broke the box office top 15 in 2024Franchises and sequels dominated the 2024 box office, with no original films in the top 15.
Joker 2 is bombing at the box officeThe sequel 'Joker: Folie à Deux' experiences a significant drop in box office performance and critical reception compared to the original.Director Todd Phillips announces 'Joker: Folie à Deux' will conclude the franchise and his involvement with the DC Universe.
James Cameron keeps teasing Avatar 3's evil Na'vi clan and 'brave choices' and I think my boy Jake Sully might be cookedJames Cameron promises surprising elements and bold choices in Avatar: Fire and Ash, expected to outshine competition in 2025.
Say goodbye to any hopes you had of more original Disney films, because Moana 2 had a ridiculous record breaking weekendDisney's sequel strategy is reinforced by Moana 2's record-breaking opening weekend, signaling a shift away from original films.
The Top Movies of 2024: Wicked' and Nine SequelsFranchise fatigue in Hollywood persists as sequels dominate the box office again, despite initial hopes for original stories.
Summer box office 2024: what were the big winners and losers?Disney's box office resurgence demonstrates the enduring power of established franchises and sequels in cinema's recovery.
Animated Sequels Are Back, Led by Disney's 'Zootopia 2,' but Pixar Counters with Original 'Elio'2025 features a blend of high-profile animated sequels and original films, with significant anticipation for both Oscar contenders and diverse storytelling.
Here's what we know about 'Zootopia 2' and Ke Huy Quan's Gary the snake characterZootopia 2 will introduce new environments and characters, including semi-aquatic creatures and reptiles, with Judy and Nick returning to investigate.
Animated Sequels Are Back, Led by Disney's 'Zootopia 2,' but Pixar Counters with Original 'Elio'2025 features a blend of high-profile animated sequels and original films, with significant anticipation for both Oscar contenders and diverse storytelling.
Here's what we know about 'Zootopia 2' and Ke Huy Quan's Gary the snake characterZootopia 2 will introduce new environments and characters, including semi-aquatic creatures and reptiles, with Judy and Nick returning to investigate.
This year's slate of sequels feels like nostalgic reassurance in a time of chaosThe current gaming landscape is heavily influenced by live service models, leading to both major successes and significant failures.
Hades 2 Is Already An Exciting Sequel With Confident Changes | Technical Test ImpressionsSupergiant Games continuously innovates without making sequels. Hades showcases the studio's pinnacle of excellence and potential for further development.
This year's slate of sequels feels like nostalgic reassurance in a time of chaosThe current gaming landscape is heavily influenced by live service models, leading to both major successes and significant failures.
Hades 2 Is Already An Exciting Sequel With Confident Changes | Technical Test ImpressionsSupergiant Games continuously innovates without making sequels. Hades showcases the studio's pinnacle of excellence and potential for further development.
One of the Biggest Movies of the Year Had One of Its Worst EndingsModern cinema struggles with impactful conclusions compared to the past, demonstrating a trend toward forgettable endings in sequels.The distinctiveness of film endings is diminishing as studios favor series and sequels over standalone narratives.
The 10 Best Movies You Missed in 2024In 2024, sequels dominated box office earnings, yet some of the best films are lesser-known titles, like 'Anora.'
15 things you probably didn't know about 'A Christmas Story'The film 'A Christmas Story' is inspired by Jean Shepherd's writings and showcases a unique blend of humor and nostalgia.
If Pixar Must Keep Making Sequels, Make Them Like 'Inside Out 2'Nostalgia plays a significant role in the direction of Pixar's future projects.
Speed 2: Cruise ControlSequels offer continuity and nostalgia, allowing characters and communities to evolve in familiar worlds, reflecting life's cycles and human experiences.
If Pixar Must Keep Making Sequels, Make Them Like 'Inside Out 2'Nostalgia plays a significant role in the direction of Pixar's future projects.
Speed 2: Cruise ControlSequels offer continuity and nostalgia, allowing characters and communities to evolve in familiar worlds, reflecting life's cycles and human experiences.
Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse Is Coming to Our UniverseSony is committed to expanding the Spider-Verse franchise following the success of Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse.
People Are Divided On Which Movie Should Rightfully Be Crowned As The "#1 Best Film Of 2024"2024 marks a significant resurgence in cinema, featuring both notable original films and beloved sequels.
Movie Review: Ridley Scott's disappointing 'Gladiator 2' gets a mild thumbs downGladiator II is an uninspired sequel that fails to engage, lacking the depth and tension of the original Gladiator.
Every Gladiator II actor is in their own wild version of the movie - so let's rank themGladiator II underwent a lengthy evolution before shifting focus from Maximus to Lucius Verus after two decades of development.
Ridley Scott Still Regrets Not Directing The Alien SequelsRidley Scott regrets not directing the sequels to Alien and Blade Runner, feeling he was not asked due to being slow out the gate.
It's Thumbs-down for the Forgettable Ending of Gladiator IIGladiator II ends anticlimactically, falling short of the emotional and dramatic intensity established in the original Gladiator.
Movie Review: Ridley Scott's disappointing 'Gladiator 2' gets a mild thumbs downGladiator II is an uninspired sequel that fails to engage, lacking the depth and tension of the original Gladiator.
Every Gladiator II actor is in their own wild version of the movie - so let's rank themGladiator II underwent a lengthy evolution before shifting focus from Maximus to Lucius Verus after two decades of development.
Ridley Scott Still Regrets Not Directing The Alien SequelsRidley Scott regrets not directing the sequels to Alien and Blade Runner, feeling he was not asked due to being slow out the gate.
It's Thumbs-down for the Forgettable Ending of Gladiator IIGladiator II ends anticlimactically, falling short of the emotional and dramatic intensity established in the original Gladiator.
The Historical Masterpiece Actually Worth Waiting a Decade ForGladiator II, after 24 years, fails to impress critics, often viewed as a disappointing and derivative sequel.
Jean Hanff Korelitz's All-Time Favorite SequelsKorelitz discusses her early inspirations from sequels, showcasing how they shaped her understanding of literature and identity.
Lackluster Beetlejuice' sequel still dominating box officeThe newly released Beetlejuice sequel disappointingly lacks the humor and thrills of its predecessor, failing to capture the original's innovative spirit.
Smile 2 is smarter, scarier, and much better than the first movieSmile 2 is a superior sequel that enhances the horror experience, showcasing more creativity and stronger storytelling compared to its predecessor.
Did Beetlejuice 2's writers abandon ship halfway through?The movie 'Beetlejuice Beetlejuice' serves as a chaotic homage to its predecessor but lacks substance and cohesive storytelling.
Lackluster Beetlejuice' sequel still dominating box officeThe newly released Beetlejuice sequel disappointingly lacks the humor and thrills of its predecessor, failing to capture the original's innovative spirit.
Smile 2 is smarter, scarier, and much better than the first movieSmile 2 is a superior sequel that enhances the horror experience, showcasing more creativity and stronger storytelling compared to its predecessor.
Did Beetlejuice 2's writers abandon ship halfway through?The movie 'Beetlejuice Beetlejuice' serves as a chaotic homage to its predecessor but lacks substance and cohesive storytelling.
The overloaded Frostpunk 2 could have been chillerFrostpunk 2 shifts towards macro management and faction decisions, losing some of the immediate impact that defined the original game.
TJ Klune says Calvin & Hobbes' inspired a Somewhere Beyond the Sea' characterWriting sequels requires careful expansion of established worlds without breaking original rules.
The most anticipated movies of fall 2024The fall movie season will feature darker tales alongside lighter fare, bridging genres as studios shift focus.
The Hotel Avocado by Bob Mortimer review more affable nonsenseThe Hotel Avocado offers a whimsical, absurd narrative filled with quirky humor and delightful storytelling, characteristic of Bob Mortimer's unique comedic style.
From Star Wars Outlaws To Visions Of Mana: 18 Cool Games To Check Out In AugustAugust brings a diverse lineup of game releases, including highly anticipated titles like Star Wars games, a new Mana series entry, and World of Warcraft saga.
Hellblade 2, Paper Mario, and 17 Other Games To Get Excited For In MayMay 2024 brings a diverse lineup of game releases, including sequels, indie titles, and demos for early access.
From Star Wars Outlaws To Visions Of Mana: 18 Cool Games To Check Out In AugustAugust brings a diverse lineup of game releases, including highly anticipated titles like Star Wars games, a new Mana series entry, and World of Warcraft saga.
Hellblade 2, Paper Mario, and 17 Other Games To Get Excited For In MayMay 2024 brings a diverse lineup of game releases, including sequels, indie titles, and demos for early access.
This is much more intimate': Colm Toibin on writing a sequel to Brooklyn, 15 years onColm Toibin, famous for disapproving sequels, surprises fans with a follow-up novel after 15 years.
'Long Island' renders bare the universality of longingSequels like 'Long Island' can match or surpass the original's impact by continuing beloved characters' stories in a compelling manner.
'Blair Witch' actor slams '25 years of disrespect' as new reboot is announcedOriginal production team of 'The Blair Witch Project' not included in recent franchise reboot.
3 Lessons We've Learned at the Midpoint of a Strange Year for Horror MoviesHorror movies remain consistently profitable despite industry challenges.
Five Nights at Freddy 2 hitting the big screen next yearFive Nights at Freddy's 2 movie announced at CinemaCon 2024.Universal Pictures plans for fall release in 2025 after the success of the first movie.
3 Lessons We've Learned at the Midpoint of a Strange Year for Horror MoviesHorror movies remain consistently profitable despite industry challenges.
Five Nights at Freddy 2 hitting the big screen next yearFive Nights at Freddy's 2 movie announced at CinemaCon 2024.Universal Pictures plans for fall release in 2025 after the success of the first movie.
School of Rock soundtrack comes to streaming for first timeJack Black's School of Rock soundtrack album is now available on streaming platforms with a bonus track.
'Inside Out 2' scores $100 million in its second weekend, setting recordsInside Out 2 set a new record for animated movie second-weekend ticket sales with $100 million, on track to reach $1 billion mark and challenge all-time top-grossing Pixar films.
'Inside Out 2' Review: All Brains and No Heart, This Disappointing Sequel Proves Pixar Learned All the Wrong Lessons from Its Pandemic YearsPixar is shifting from personal, original stories to high-concept sequels to regain mass appeal.
'Inside Out 2' scores $100 million in its second weekend, setting recordsInside Out 2 set a new record for animated movie second-weekend ticket sales with $100 million, on track to reach $1 billion mark and challenge all-time top-grossing Pixar films.
'Inside Out 2' Review: All Brains and No Heart, This Disappointing Sequel Proves Pixar Learned All the Wrong Lessons from Its Pandemic YearsPixar is shifting from personal, original stories to high-concept sequels to regain mass appeal.