Movies Archives - Doug Franklin Books

13 Movies That Need Sequels: Movies That Deserve Sequels I just came across a Twitter thread about Movies that need sequels and it got me thinking! I saw it, and started thinking about all of the good movies I think need sequels. So then I looked into it and there were just too many great ideas not to share! Here is the original Movies That Need A Sequel Twitter thread, if you want to check it out or add your $0.02. This is our Saturday Fun post, so please enjoy it! ;) 13 Requested Movie Sequel List: Battle Angel Alita Urban's Judge Dredd Big Trouble in Little China Serenity/Firefly Dirty Rotten Scoundrels Galaxy Quest Sin City Spaceballs Over The Hedge John Carter Master and Commander Labyrinth Ice Pirates The first four on that list are pretty much my tops, while the rest I would like to see. Doug's Sequel Request Rules: Because I have not seen every movie ever made, I Doug Franklin, will only advocate for: Movies I have seen, Movies that HAVE no sequel I know, As in we are not going to imagine away existing IPs It's okay if it is coming but not released (the new Dune sequel is imminent so not on the list) Movies I have enjoyed, Movies I think deserve sequels! Sequels Fleshed Out: It is important to flesh out why these movies are great and should have sequels. Battle Angel Alita: Battle Angel Alita DVD Alita is a great movie! It's an excellent movie by itself. The protagonist Alita has a great character arch where she literally climbs from a scrap heap, struggles with all the young-adult growing pains, and becomes a strong mature young warrior. Her decisions to grow and improve, along with her challenges and adventures throughout the movie bring her step by step along the hero's journey. Alita is not only respected by her friends but also by her enemies. So she is a fun balanced character to watch. Part of her development was the best aspects of her personality and her abilities were all tested, developed, and displayed before she needed her full powers in the face of a traditional world-spanning villain. The movie ends with Alita's sword raised in a challenge to her interplanetary enemy. And then the end credits played. Dredd - DVD Aragh! This was a comic book series, which I unfortunately have not found, so there is apparently a lot more to this story available. Urban's Judge Dredd Dredd Sequel Request Dredd is great! It is dark and gritty. This is a believable future dystopia. As horrible as this world is it is apparently a Marvel movie and plugged into one of the Marvel multi-verse outcomes. But, I know I'm a bad person and never spent much time in comic books, so I might be muddling that connection. I saw the Stalone movie years ago. This one is on my buy list, but I have never pulled the trigger on picking up the Stalone version of this movie. When I was a kid, I also think I saw comic books but did not spend the time to collect the books. I really did not have the frame of reference for the book and it was not a purchase I made. We are talking about the movies in this original Twitter thread. So, I'll dodge that bullet unashamedly! :P Big Trouble in Little China Big Trouble in Little China was another old fun movie. It is in my cart to buy, but one of the few movies I like that I do not have in my disc collection. :( Big Trouble in Little China Sequel It is a brash and fun, action-packed cult classic action-comedy film directed by John Carpenter. The film follows the misadventures of Jack Burton, a charismatic truck driver played by Kurt Russell. Jack becomes embroiled in the mystical and dangerous underworld of San Francisco's Chinatown. His friend's fiancee is kidnapped by an ancient sorcerer named Lo Pan. And then Jack Burton and his crew must venture deep into a hidden world beneath Chinatown to rescue her. Throughout their journey, Jack Burton and his companions encounter a series of supernatural threats, including shape-shifting villains, powerful martial artists, and mystical forces. With a blend of humor, martial arts action, and supernatural elements, the film is a tongue-in-cheek homage to kung fu and fantasy films, with Jack Burton's over-the-top bravado providing comedic relief amidst the chaos. The film ultimately pits Jack against the formidable sorcerer Lo Pan, leading to a climactic battle in which Jack and his friends must save the day and rescue the damsel in distress. "Big Trouble in Little China" is known for its campy charm, blending elements of action, fantasy, and humor in a uniquely entertaining way, making it a beloved classic in the realm of cult cinema. There were a lot of cool magic & criminal structures and situations that were introduced and could make for another fun movie. Though I do not have a plot in mind, there was a lot of fertile territory that a bigger fan or producer could use to make another fun adventure. Serenity/Firefly Firefly and then Serenity are Joss Whedon's space-cowboy series! This property was wronged twice! First, the series was canceled after a single season. Second, when the great movie never got a sequel! "Firefly" is a space-western TV series created by Joss Whedon. The show follows the misadventures of the renegade brown-shirt and part-time criminal crew of the spaceship Serenity in a post-civil war universe. The show combines elements of westerns and sci-fi, featuring a diverse cast of characters living on the fringes of society. The series was prematurely canceled but gained a dedicated fanbase. The follow-up movie, "Serenity," served as a continuation of the show. It wrapped up some of the lingering plot threads. Serenity explored the crew's complex relationships while introducing new challenges and mysteries. It combines the series' signature humor, action, and character-driven storytelling in a feature film format. It is pretty much a crime that Firefly & Serenity never continued as a series or feature film. I have both on the movie shelf. Dirty Rotten Scoundrels Dirty Rotten Scoundrels - DVD Scoundrels was a 1988 comedy film directed by Frank Oz, starring Steve Martin and Michael Caine. I laugh and laugh at this movie! They are such jerks and the end is so perfectly fitting while making a great opening for a sequel. There was plenty of room for continuing the scam! Scoundrels followed the exploits of two con artists, Lawrence and Freddy. They compete to swindle wealthy women in a glamorous French Riviera town. They are two con artists trying to out-con each other! The two scoundrels engage in a hilarious battle of wits and manipulation to outdo each other. Ultimately the adventure leads to unexpected twists and turns. The film is a clever and humorous exploration of the world of confidence tricks and deception. Both Martin and Caine delivered standout comedic performances and played well off each other's completely different and dynamic styles. There was not really a sequel. "The Hustle" released in 2019 and directed by Chris Addison, reimagined the original, using the same locations. It was just another remake. I'm not really a fan of remakes. So not a sequel. :( Galaxy Quest "Galaxy Quest" is a 1999 science fiction comedy film directed by Dean Parisot. The movie parodies the conventions of classic science fiction TV series and conventions. It pays homage to the passionate fanbase that surrounds them. The story follows the cast of a once-popular space-themed TV show "Galaxy Quest". The crew was once popular, but the crew has fallen from fame, gotten older, and is dragging themselves through picture signings and electronics store ribbon-cutting ceremonies. They were mistaken for real space heroes by an alien race seeking help. The crew was led by the has-been actor Jason Nesmith (played by Tim Allen). The cast finds themselves in a real intergalactic adventure. And they must overcome their own egos and insecurities to save the day. The film strikes a balance between humor and genuine love for the sci-fi genre. Galaxy Quest pays homage to fans, while during the heroes' journey, the crew must endure lots of struggles, ultimately teaching them humility and appreciation for their fans. There were apparently discussions and rumors about a potential sequel or TV series continuation. But as of now, I have seen nor heard anything about either. Sin City Sin City - DVD Directed by Robert Rodriguez and Frank Miller, "Sin City" is a 2005 neo-noir crime anthology film. The story is based on Miller's graphic novel series of the same name. The film is set in the gritty, corrupt, and violent Basin City. And weaves together several interconnected stories involving morally ambiguous characters, criminal elements, and vigilante justice. The rapid change between stories is similar to Pulp Fiction, but Sin City's is more linear, and because the style is the same Sin City is a little smoother and easier to follow. The film's distinctive visual style combines high-contrast black-and-white cinematography with occasional bursts of color. This creates a dark and visually striking world. In one situation, the color is so off-putting that the narration has you as the viewer almost able to smell the color. It's a brutal and stylish exploration of crime, corruption, and vengeance, with a star-studded ensemble cast. Spaceballs "Spaceballs" is a 1987 science fiction comedy film directed by Mel Brooks. It's a hilarious parody of the space opera genre, particularly targeting the "Star Wars" franchise. The film follows the escapades of Lone Starr and his sidekick Barf as they try to rescue Princess Vespa. And shows their misadventures while trying to thwart the evil Dark Helmet's plan to steal Princess Vespa's planet's air. Spacerballs is packed with slapstick humor, puns, and pop culture references. "Spaceballs" is a zany and irreverent take on space adventures, complete with memorable characters and iconic gags. Mel Brooks actually included a joke where he expressed interest in making a sequel titled "Spaceballs 2: The Search for More Money". That was a movie joke, poking fun at the long science fiction space opera movie series. Though, it might be fun to see another Spaceballs movie. Over The Hedge Based on a popular comic strip of the same name, "Over the Hedge" is a 2006 animated comedy film. The story revolves around a group of woodland animals, including a wise turtle named Verne, a hyperactive squirrel named Hammy, and a street-smart raccoon named RJ. When they wake from the winter's hibernation the animals are mortified to realize half of their forest is gone. They discover that a suburban neighborhood has encroached on their forest, leaving them with limited access to food. RJ convinces the group to venture into the human world to replenish their food supply by stealing from the suburbanites. However, this adventure introduces them to a variety of human food and conveniences, causing both excitement and chaos. While highlighting the contrast between the natural world and the human one. As they navigate the challenges of suburban living, the animals form unlikely friendships. And they ultimately learn valuable lessons about the importance of family and community. "Over the Hedge" is a heartwarming and humorous tale that explores the themes of adaptation, friendship, and environmentalism, making it an entertaining family-friendly animated film. John Carter: John Carter Sequel Request I looked at John Carter as a sequel candidate and literally forgot to add it to my posted list! :( Chuo Dori got their first. "John Carter" is a 2012 science fiction film directed by Andrew Stanton and based on the Edgar Rice Burroughs novel "A Princess of Mars." The film follows John Carter, a former Confederate soldier played by Taylor Kitsch, who mysteriously finds himself transported to the planet Mars (known as Barsoom). On Barsoom, Carter discovers he has superhuman abilities due to the planet's lower gravity. He becomes embroiled in a conflict between the various Martian races and ultimately finds himself fighting alongside the Tharks, a green-skinned warrior race. After his own traumatic experiences, Carter ends up falling in love with Dejah Thoris, a Martian princess. The film blends science fiction and adventure as Carter navigates this alien world, using his newfound abilities to save Barsoom from a looming war. "John Carter" is known for its visually stunning Martian landscapes and creative world-building. The movie faced challenges in its marketing and reception upon release. It's an adaptation of a classic science fiction tale that has inspired many subsequent works. And while the film didn't receive the acclaim it aimed for, it's still appreciated by some for its ambition and imaginative storytelling. Master and Commander Master and Commander - DVD Directed by Peter Weir, "Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World" is a 2003 epic historical war film. Set during the Napoleonic Wars, the film follows Captain Jack Aubrey, played by Russell Crowe, and his crew aboard the British warship HMS Surprise. The crew was chasing a formidable French privateer ship, the Acheron, across the South Atlantic, the crew faced a series of maritime challenges, battles, and personal trials. The movie explores themes of leadership, camaraderie, and the hardships of life at sea. While offering an authentic portrayal of 19th-century naval warfare and life on a British warship. "Master and Commander" is historically accurate and detailed, with strong character development, and the intense on-screen chemistry between Russell Crowe's Captain Aubrey and Paul Bettany's ship's surgeon, Dr. Stephen Maturin. The film's realistic depiction of naval combat and its portrayal of the challenges and dangers faced by the crew. Master and Commander is a memorable and immersive cinematic experience, earning critical acclaim and several Academy Award nominations. It is such a beautiful movie that ends with the chase continuing, as s cliffhanger. Labyrinth The Labyrinth Sequel "Labyrinth" is a 1986 dark fantasy film directed by Jim Henson. The story centers on Sarah Williams, played by Jennifer Connelly, a teenage girl who is reluctantly forced to babysit her baby brother, Toby. When she wishes for the Goblin King, Jareth, portrayed by David Bowie, to take her brother away, her wish is granted. Sarah embarks on a fantastical journey through the labyrinth to rescue Toby. Along the way, she encounters a range of strange and colorful characters, including Hoggle, Ludo, and Sir Didymus, as she navigates a maze of puzzles, traps, and riddles. "Labyrinth" is celebrated for its imaginative world, puppetry, and special effects, all brought to life by the creative genius of Jim Henson. The film is a delightful and visually stunning blend of fantasy and adventure, featuring David Bowie's iconic performance and a memorable soundtrack. As Sarah battles her way through the labyrinth, she discovers valuable life lessons about growing up and the importance of responsibility. The film has garnered a cult following and remains a beloved classic in the realm of family-oriented dark fantasy cinema. The end of Labyrinth had a good solid finish. The end included fantastical animals reflected in the real world. There is a lot of space for additional adventures in the world, if not interacting with the Goblin King. Ice Pirates: Ice Pirates Sequel Request Someone from the thread thought that this would be a good movie for a sequel. I have it on my shelf, but thought Ice Pirates was wrapped up, but yeah! It could use a sequel too! Markiz De Rob made a great point with the simple GIF, or I'm too easily influenced. Ice Pirates is a great movie. "Ice Pirates" is a 1984 science fiction comedy film directed by Stewart Raffill. Set in a distant future, the film follows a group of renegade space pirates led by Jason, played by Robert Urich, who embark on a quest to find a mythical source of water, a precious commodity in this water-scarce universe. Along the way, they encounter a series of bizarre and often humorous challenges, including battles with other space pirates, encounters with an eccentric princess, and a journey through a time warp that ages them rapidly. "Ice Pirates" is full of campy humor, a tongue-in-cheek approach to science fiction, and a penchant for parodying the space opera genre. It doesn't take itself too seriously and incorporates a mix of slapstick comedy and over-the-top situations. While not a critical or commercial success upon release, the film has gained a cult following over the years for its quirky and offbeat take on space adventure. It's a humorous take on the future's most precious resource, water. Honorable Mentions: The Croods: "The Croods" is a 2013 animated adventure-comedy film directed by Kirk DeMicco and Chris Sanders. The movie is set in a prehistoric world and revolves around the Crood family, a caveman clan led by the overprotective Grug, voiced by Nicolas Cage. Disaster strikes and destroys their shelter. Then a more adventurous and innovative young man named Guy, voiced by Ryan Reynolds, enters their lives and introduces them to new ideas and inventions. The Crood's cave is destroyed. That forces the Croods to embark on a perilous journey to find a new home. Along the way, they encountered a wide array of prehistoric creatures and learned important lessons about change, courage, and the value of family along the way. "The Croods" is a heartwarming and visually captivating animated film that explores the theme of adaptation to change. The characters' development and their transition from a fear-driven existence to embracing the unknown make for a touching and humorous family adventure. The film combines humor, action, and a strong message about evolving in the face of challenges. The Croods did well with both audiences and critics. The movie ends with pretty much exactly riding into the sunset while talking about what will happen tomorrow. That's a pretty clear opening for another movie! But while I was just looking at it there appears to be a sequel listed on Amazon, but I never heard of it. The Losers: Losers Sequel Request Directed by Sylvain White, "The Losers" is a 2010 action film. The movie follows an elite Special Forces team known as "The Losers". The team consists of Clay (Jeffrey Dean Morgan), Roque (Idris Elba), Pooch (Columbus Short), Jensen (Chris Evans), and Cougar (Óscar Jaenada). After being betrayed and left for dead by their handler, Max (Jason Patric), during a covert mission in Bolivia, The Losers embark on a mission of revenge. They join forces with a mysterious woman named Aisha (Zoe Saldana). And then they aim to take down Max and clear their names while unraveling a larger conspiracy. "The Losers" is a fast-paced action film full of gunfights, explosions, and witty banter. It offers a mix of humor and adrenaline-pumping sequences, with the charismatic ensemble cast delivering engaging performances. The movie combines elements of espionage, revenge, and camaraderie. The Losers may not break new ground in the action genre, it provides an entertaining and action-packed ride for fans of the genre.