Hollywood has and will continue to have a problem with sequels – they don’t know when to stop and many, meant to cash in on the success of the first movie, tend to fall flat. But Tinseltown keeps churning them out, because you never know when something good might come out of it and once in a long while, there is a sequel that surpasses the original. In fact, audiences have had a reason to celebrate with the recent release of Dune: Part Two, Denis Villeneuve’s follow-up to his 2021 hit, Dune: Part One.
Faster-paced and more tightly executed, the second of the two-part adaptation of Frank Herbert’s 1965 novel of the same name is a reminder that a seminal literary work, in the hands of a brilliant film auteur, can be turned into a cinematic masterpiece.
But even without powerful source material, there have been the occasional sequel that not only lives up to, but surpasses the brilliance of its predecessor – and we don’t simply mean when the second movie is better than the first as there have been instances where the fourth film can be stronger than the third, or even the first three.
Case in point – Brad Bird’s Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol (2011), surpasses the first three Mission: Impossible films that it followed, and while the following entry, 2015’s Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation, did not, it can be argued that 2018’s Mission: Impossible – Fallout is the strongest of the franchise. And while no one will defend any of the Fast & Furious films as cinematic masterpieces, there’s no denying that 2011’s Fast Five remains the high point for the series.
These sequels work because they masterfully expand on the foundation built by their predecessors, either by lore-building, or carving out great villains that grip the attention of audiences. As fans of great films, we present to you our list of 15 great geek movies, in no particular order, where its sequels shine brighter than the ones that came before.
1. Dune: Part Two (2024)
Director: Denis Villeneuve
Greatly developing beyond its original worldview set in Dune: Part One, Dune: Part Two has resonated deeply with both die-hard fans and newcomers to the universe. Director Denis Villeneuve’s (Blade Runner 2049) visionary direction crafted a gripping narrative rich with themes of fanaticism and corruption, motivated by his admiration for author Frank Herbert’s Dune. Building upon its predecessor’s foundation, Dune: Part Two intensifies the emotional and political stakes, weaving a grandiose yet intimately personal story of ambition, betrayal, and destiny on the desert planet of Arrakis.
The impressive story aside, the cherry on the cake? It has epic sandworm rides, intense battles, and stellar performances from its ensemble cast. Grappling with power and destiny, Timothée Chalamet (Call Me by Your Name, Wonka) shines as Paul Atreides, Zendaya (The Greatest Showman, Spider-Man: Homecoming) brings depth to her role as Chani, and the rest of the cast adds layers upon layers to the story. With breathtaking set pieces and an expansion of combat sequences, Dune: Part Two has set a new benchmark for sci-fi epics. As Villeneuve reaffirms his status as a modern cinema maestro, audiences eagerly await the next chapter in this captivating saga.
2. Star Wars: Episode V –The Empire Strikes Back (1980)
Director: Irvin Kershner
The original 1977 Star Wars film, subsequently retitled as Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope, established itself as a cultural phenomenon, and its sequel, The Empire Strikes Back further elevated the Star Wars saga to new heights. While captivating with its emotionally gripping narrative and universe created by George Lucas, the sequel further captures the deeper dive into the complexities of its characters. Both main and side characters were written more purposefully, and the story’s progression was much more tied to the development of its characters, giving much more emotional depth and raising the stakes of the series’ ongoing struggle against the Empire.
We won’t forget how The Empire Strikes Back gave birth to some of the most iconic moments from the series – Darth Vader’s revealing his true identity, Yoda’s masterful lines, and some of the best action scenes. With its unforgettable cliffhanger ending, seamless integration of visual effects and battle sequences, and the masterful performance delivered by its actors, The Empire Strikes Back has undeniably solidified its status as both a worthy successor to the beloved original film and a cinematic masterpiece.
3. The Godfather Part II (1974)
Director: Francis Ford Coppola
It’s been hailed as one of the greatest sequels of all time, and for good reason. Expanding upon the epic narrative of its predecessor, the sequel delved deeper into the complexities of power, family, and betrayal. Director Francis Ford Coppola (The Conversation, Apocalypse Now) masterfully weaves together two parallel storylines: the rise of Vito Corleone (Robert De Niro, The Untouchables, Goodfellas) in early 20th-century New York, and the reign of his son Michael (Al Pacino, Scarface, The Devil’s Advocate) as the new Don in the 1950s. Through these interwoven narratives, the film weighs in so much on its thematic gravity, crafting an unforgettable philosophical narrative and story sequence. Undeniably, the sheer profound impact of The Godfather Part II lasts even to this day.
The compelling scenes performed by their actors further enraptured us in its narrative, proven by the Academy Award won by De Niro’s role of young Vito. For years, The Godfather Part II had held the distinction of being the only sequel to win Best Picture, a feat eventually matched by The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King in 2003.
4. Terminator 2: Judgment Day (1991)
Director: James Cameron
Terminator 2: Judgment Day redefined the action genre with its thrilling blend of spectacle and storytelling. Director James Cameron (Titanic, Avatar) transformed Arnold Schwarzenegger’s evil cyborg character into a heroic figure, resonating with audiences worldwide. Building upon its predecessor’s foundation, the film explores themes of destiny and humanity, with Schwarzenegger returning as the T-800 to protect John Connor from the advanced T-1000. With groundbreaking effects and pulse-pounding action, Terminator 2 cemented its status as a sci-fi classic, surpassing its predecessor.
Cameron’s 1991 sequel recaptured the original’s essence while introducing new elements in story and production values, standing tall among sci-fi action movies. The film’s groundbreaking CGI remains impressive to this day, especially the T-1000’s effects, creating memorable action sequences. Terminator 2 effectively balances humour with intense action, offering levity without breaking immersion. From quotable one-liners to memorable scenes, the film demonstrates Cameron’s skill in crafting a cinematic experience that endures.
5. Thor: Ragnarok (2017)
Director: Taika Waititi
A one-of-its-kind movie in the Marvel Cinematic Universe when it was released, Director Taika Waititi’s (Jojo Rabbit, Next Goal Wins) Thor: Ragnarok revitalised the franchise with its fresh, irreverent take. Under Waititi’s comedic vision, Ragnarok bursts with colourful visuals, witty humour, energetic pacing and compelling characters, and transforms Thor into a more relatable and dynamic character. Chris Hemsworth (Star Trek, Extraction) also delivers a hilarious and endearing performance as the God of Thunder, embracing the film’s comedic elements with aplomb.
Navigating a plot that explores themes of arrogance, redemption, and brotherhood, Hemsworth’s chemistry with Tom Hiddleston’s (Archipelago, Midnight in Paris) Loki elevates the film. The film’s blend of action, humour, and heart, along with its introduction of compelling new characters and captivating action sequences, makes it a must-watch for fans of the Marvel universe. It stands as a testament to the power of creative filmmaking and solidifies its place not only as a sequel better than Thor: The Dark World, but also as one of the MCU’s most beloved and entertaining movies.
6. The Dark Knight (2008)
Director: Christopher Nolan
Christopher Nolan’s The Dark Knight stands as a groundbreaking achievement, redefining the superhero genre with its gripping narrative and Heath Ledger’s (Candy, I’m Not There) unforgettable performance as the Joker. Ledger’s portrayal of chaos and anarchy elevates the film to new heights, pushing the boundaries of what a comic book movie can achieve. The exploration of morality, justice, and heroism transcends its genre, delivering a thought-provoking cinematic experience that remains unmatched in the superhero canon.
While Batman Begins laid the foundation for Nolan’s dark take on the Caped Crusader, The Dark Knight emerges as the definitive Batman classic. Ledger’s twisted portrayal of the Joker, coupled with the film’s complex characters and intense action sequences, sets a new standard for comic book adaptations. With its malicious zest and gripping narrative, The Dark Knight captivates audiences, leaving a lasting impact on both the superhero genre and cinematic storytelling as a whole.
7. Spider-Man 2 (2004)
Director: Sam Raimi
Spider-Man 2 had swung into theatres as a sequel that not only surpassed its predecessor but also redefined the superhero genre. Building upon the success of the first film, Spider-Man 2 delved deeper into the emotional journey of its titular hero, Peter Parker. Director Sam Raimi (Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness) expertly explores Peter’s internal struggles as he grapples with the weight of his responsibilities as Spider-Man while navigating the challenges of his personal life. The introduction of Doctor Octopus, a villain fueled by devastating loss portrayed with tragic depth by Alfred Molina (The Normal Heart, Three Pines), served as a mirror to Peter’s inner turmoil and amplified the narrative’s emotional depth.
Spider-Man 2 strikes a perfect balance between thrilling action sequences and heartfelt character moments, transcending the conventions of the superhero genre. The film’s standout scenes, such as the iconic subway rescue sequence, showcase Peter’s unwavering determination and selflessness and capture the essence of his character’s journey. Raimi’s direction navigates themes of sacrifice and redemption with precision, earning acclaim for its character development and memorable set pieces.
8. Captain America: Winter Soldier (2014)
Director: Anthony and Joe Russo (Russo Brothers)
Seamlessly blending superhero action with political intrigue and espionage, Captain America: Winter Soldier set its position as a core film in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Directors Anthony and Joe Russo (Avengers: Endgame) craft a taut and suspenseful thriller against the backdrop of a government conspiracy, that gives its audience higher investments into the story than The First Avenger.
Diving into themes of surveillance, freedom, and the price of security, Chris Evans (Knives Out, The Gray Man) delivers a standout performance as Steve Rogers, depicting the struggles between Captain America’s convictions and allegiances. When faced with Sebastian Stan’s haunting portrayal of the Winter Soldier, the narrative unveils its complex emotional layers that further captivate its audience.
Core moments of the film that still burn fresh in the memory of many include the iconic elevator fight and Steve Roger’s first encounter with the Winter Soldier. Captain America: Winter Soldier stands out as a masterful blend of action and suspense that engages its audience more than its prequel, earning praise for its engaging plot, dynamic character dynamics, and gripping portrayal of paranoia in a world of superpowers.
9. High School Musical 2 (2007)
Director: Kenny Ortega
In High School Musical 2, the beloved characters of East High return for another musical adventure, navigating the challenges of summer jobs and newfound responsibilities. Director Kenny Ortega (Hocus Pocus, Descendants) had a tall order to surpass the legendary status set by the original High School Musical, and successfully conquered it. The sequel expanded the series’ recurring themes of friendship, loyalty, and self-discovery through more conflicts, capturing the spirit of adolescence outside of their high school setting.
Its musical pieces also highlight the film’s peaks, with renowned pieces ‘Gotta Go My Own Way’ driving emotions through the peak, and Sharpay’s ‘Fabulous’ bursting the flamboyant charts. With catchy musical numbers and heartfelt storytelling, the sequel further amplifies the characters’ relationships and dilemmas, resonating with audiences through its focus on loyalty versus ambition through Troy’s decisions (Zac Efron, Baywatch, The Iron Claw). High School Musical 2 emerges as the definitive entry in the franchise, highlighting the true essence of the Wildcats’ spirit and camaraderie.
10. Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse (2023)
Director: Joaquim Dos Santos, Kemp Powers and Justin K. Thompson
A bold new adventure that surpasses its predecessor in many ways. While both Into the Spider-Verse and Across the Spider-Verse hold a special place in the hearts of Spider-Man fans, the sequel takes the multiverse concept to new heights. From introducing more Spider-heroes, to creating an enthralling multiverse of grief and anxiety that captivates from start to finish, and diving deeper into the emotional complexities of its characters.
Visually, its mesmerising animation style pushes the boundaries of animation and reaches new levels of creativity and detail. Each dimension boasts its own unique aesthetic, creating some of the best animated scenes we’ve seen.
The sequel shines in character development, particularly with Miles Morales (Shameik Moore, Let It Snow, Cut Throat City), who grapples with personal struggles and longing for connection. The film’s focus on Miles, Gwen Stacey (Hailee Steinfeld, Pitch Perfect, The Marvels), and Spider-Man 2099’s Miguel O’Hara (Oscar Issac, X-Men: Apocalypse, Dune) adds a personal touch to the story, their conflicts and compromises tugging at the heartstrings of its audience. Across the Spider-Verse marks a significant evolution in the Spider-Verse saga, masterfully balancing its ambition with a compelling narrative depth and emotional resonance, resulting in a timeless classic that promises an exciting future for the franchise.
11. Blade Runner 2049 (2017)
Director: Denis Villeneuve
While the original film laid the foundation for its iconic world-building, director Denis Villeneuve’s (Arrival, Dune) highly anticipated sequel to the 1982 Ridley Scott classic captivates with a gripping narrative. Centred around K (Ryan Gosling, La La Land, Barbie), on a quest for authenticity in a society of replicants, his journey has crafted a cinematic experience through poignant storytelling and worldbuilding that transcends its predecessor, resonating deeply with its audience.
Moreover, Blade Runner 2049 excels in narrative propulsion and musical ambience, drawing viewers into a captivating journey with a haunting score. The film honours the visual style of the original while delivering breathtaking art design and seamless special effects. Villeneuve’s meticulous attention to detail, coupled with stunning cinematography, creates a riveting and immersive world. Despite its lengthy runtime, Blade Runner 2049 stands as a remarkable achievement in filmmaking, solidifying its position as a groundbreaking sequel.
12. Top Gun: Maverick (2022)
Director: Joseph Kosinski
While many legacy sequels falter under the weight of nostalgia, Top Gun: Maverick deftly navigates the challenge, delivering a thrilling narrative that resonates with both longtime fans and newcomers alike. The film seamlessly integrates elements of the original Top Gun while forging its own path forward, elevating the story with a compelling plot centred around Maverick’s journey to train a new generation of pilots, keeping audiences fully engaged from start to finish.
What sets Maverick apart is its clear and compelling storyline, which propels the narrative forward with a laser-focused purpose and urgency, unlike its predecessor which occasionally meandered in its plot. Director Joseph Kosinski (Only the Brave, Spiderhead) expertly captures the essence of Tony Scott’s direction while infusing the film with moments that pay homage to the legacy of the franchise, and Tom Cruise’s (Mission: Impossible franchise, The Mummy) return as Maverick propelled the aerial action sequences to breathtaking heights. Overall, Top Gun: Maverick not only exceeds expectations but also cements its status as a modern classic in the action genre.
13. Puss in Boots: The Last Wish (2022)
Director: Joel Crawford
Puss in Boots: The Last Wish resurrected the much beloved feline adventurer with renewed vigour and charm from its rather unnecessary 2011 film, Puss in Boots, itself a spin-off of the popular Shrek series. Set against the backdrop of Puss grappling with the prospect of death, the sequel delivers an extremely captivating storyline with profound character development, expertly blending humour, emotion, horror and action, while enchanting audiences with its vibrant animation and engaging narrative. Each member of the ensemble cast is given their time to shine, including Puss, Kitty Soft Paws, and the endearing Perrito.
Complemented by its stunning visuals and compelling themes, alongside beautifully animated frames that set new ceilings in the realm of animation, the movie delivered a cinematic experience that resonated deeply with viewers of all ages. Antonio Banderas (Desperado, Spy Kids) once again excels as the voice of Puss, infusing the character with new layers and complexities as he navigates an existential crisis. The Last Wish has delivered a powerful cat punch on themes of morality, mortality, and the importance of cherishing life’s simple pleasures, carving itself as a standout in the history of animated films.
14. Shrek 2 (2004)
Director: Andrew Adamson, Kelly Asbury, and Conrad Vernon
Shrek 2 emerges as a rare gem in the world of animated sequels, following the same path built by the original Shrek and setting a new standard. Directed by Andrew Adamson, Kelly Asbury, and Conrad Vernon, the film dives deeper into the swamp on themes like self-acceptance and unconditional love. The complexities of Shrek and Fiona’s relationship in achieving their ‘Happily Ever After’ offer a reflection on sacrifice and growth in marriage and family dynamics.
What sets Shrek 2 apart is its ability to take everything great about the first film and elevate it to new heights. From the introduction of beloved characters like Puss in Boots and the Fairy Godmother to its memorable musical moments, the sequel captivates audiences with its wit, fast-paced humour, and infectious charm. Moreover, the movie seamlessly blends fairytale parody with rom-com elements, sprinkling in hilarious references to pop culture, and constructing a narrative that feels fresh, engaging, and downright entertaining.
15. Lord of the Rings: Return of the King (2003)
Director: Peter Jackson
Director Peter Jackson’s (The Hobbit trilogy, King Kong) cinematic odyssey through J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth reached an apex with The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King, a film that surpasses its predecessors and stands as a testament to the power of storytelling on the grandest scale. Unlike The Two Towers, burdened with the task of introducing new cultures and characters, The Return of the King propelled the story forward with relentless momentum, delivering a sweeping epic that resonates emotionally and visually.
With incomparable action sequences, unforgettable moments and a highly rewarding conclusion, the film delivered a satisfying yet logical ending to every character’s arc, rewarding viewers for their investment in the journey. With its blend of heart-stopping action, emotional resonance, and thematic richness, The Return of the King stands as the pinnacle of the Lord of the Rings trilogy, which also showcases Peter Jackson’s mastery of the cinematic form. A cinematic masterpiece, The Return of the King joins The Godfather Part 2 as one of the greatest sequels ever made.
BONUS: Cobra Kai (2018 – Present)
Director: Peter Jackson
While it’s a television series, we can’t miss this chance to highlight how spin-off series Cobra Kai surpassed the movies of The Karate Kid franchise. Offering a more nuanced and engaging narrative that captivates both longtime fans and newcomers alike, Cobra Kai elevated the much cherished franchise to even greater heights with its complex characters, deeper exploration of themes, and impressive action sequences. And it did so simply by asking audiences to relook at the events of the films, and reframe them.
Multiple twists and developments keep viewers at the edge of their seats, along with ambitious action sequences thanks to impressive fight choreography and heightened tones, are all part of the big recipe that heightens excitement. Furthermore, it injects its magical touch of humour into the right moments, which balances out drama with moments of wit and charm.
But the greatest strength of the series truly lies in its character development, which the movies lacked, particularly with the central figures of Johnny Lawrence (William Zabka, Where Hope Grows) and Daniel LaRusso (Ralph Macchio, The Outsiders), and legacy characters introduced in The Karate Kid sequels. Rather than the franchise’s usual hero-versus-villain dynamic, the moral ambiguity of all its characters are fleshed out, with Johnny cast as a tragic figure grappling with his past, and Daniel facing his own flaws and shortcomings.
As the series prepares for its final season, it’s clear that Cobra Kai has cemented its status as a worthy successor to the beloved story of martial arts and redemption.
From captivating storytelling to breathtaking visuals and unforgettable characters, each sequel showcases the creative evolution of its respective franchise. As we continue to crave for continuations of beloved movies that sweep us off our feet or capture our hearts, these sequels serve as shining examples of how a beloved story can still be elevated to new heights. Sometimes, sequels can truly be better than the original, and we’re living for it.
Kaylyn is usually geeking out over gacha games or the latest updates in a manga, and can talk all day about them. She’s also an avid collector, and really needs more space to store her game merchandise, utaite CDs and manga books.
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