I hope everyone has had a good week adjusting to everything and that you and your loved ones are in good health. This list was certainly made to be a little lighter than the first as many of us start to get used to the whole stay at home thing.
For my second post, I will appropriately enter the world of sequels by providing the list of my top ten “Part Twos” that I have seen. As a heads up, most of these films require watching the original film (I will mention if it is not necessary), but I try not to delve into plots too much as to avoid spoilers. So, with the new trend of film universes like the Marvel universe, what qualifies as a sequel? For this list the movie must be the second in a series, not the third or beyond. I also have only included live-action movies, not animated films (sorry Shrek 2, Toy Story 2 and Rescuers Down Under). Also, due to the moneymaking nature of the sequel, there will be a lot of blockbusters on here, but they sure don’t disappoint (at least for me). Anyways, let’s start. Once again, the list isn’t in a ranking order.
The Godfather Part II (1974)
I’ll begin with what has been called “the greatest sequel in film history.” Like its predecessor, The Godfather Part II plays like a novel, yet the only part that is taken from Mario Puzo’s book is the flashback into Don Corleone’s origin story. Part II uses these flashbacks to clearly illustrate the rise and fall of the Corleone empire, highlighted by the deterioration of Michael Corleone’s familial and business relationships. The stakes are raised, as Part II ends up being one of the greatest films I have seen deal with the themes of betrayal and corruption. It was also one of the first films to add “Part II” into its title, thus making the trend acceptable in Hollywood. Its 3.5 hour running time has regrettably hindered me from seeing it multiple times (you really must be paying attention throughout the entire thing), but don’t let that stop you if you are unfamiliar with it. It is a superbly done film, and one I fully intend on seeing again.
How does it compare to the first movie?
It has the same quality film-making, but it’s completely different movie. There is a debate on which one is better; I enjoy and have familiarized myself more with the first than with the second, in large part because I love how its plot develops based on the unspoken strategic decisions the Corleones and their adversaries seem to calmly make at a moment’s instant. But Part II probably has the higher ceiling with multiple viewings due to its introspection into Michael’s character and the complete level of tragedy it attains.
Available to rent on YouTube and Amazon Prime
Spider-Man 2 (2004)
For me, Spider-Man 2 is a lot deeper than just a generic superhero movie. With 9/11 still fresh in the minds of Americans, and especially in New York City, the solidarity and unity exhibited by New Yorkers in the aftermath is echoed everywhere in this 2004 film, particularly in the classic train scene. Doctor Octopus is easily one of my favorite superhero film villains, as he is played marvelously by Alfred Molina, who brings out the humanity and nuance necessary to make his character multi-dimensional. But most of all, Spider-Man 2 is a movie about Peter Parker, who despite all his powers, is a distracted young man who still has lessons to learn about loss and sacrifice.
How does it compare to the first movie?
It’s better. While the first film is a fun Spider-Man origin story, Spider-Man 2 really delves into the story of Peter Parker, showing us that not even our heroes are perfect. Aunt May’s “I believe there’s a hero in all of us” speech is one of my favorite scenes and I cannot help but think that the writers had the 9/11 first responders in mind when writing it. There is no moment quite like in the first film, or in many other superhero movies for that matter. For this reason and many others, I always feel like I take more out of a viewing of Spider-Man 2 than almost any other film of its genre.
Available for free on Hulu with Live TV add-on
The Dark Knight (2008)
This is awkward. I included The Dark Knight in my first post as well, but let’s be honest here, it could make so many lists, and it would be treacherous not to name it one the greatest sequels ever. In its own coincidental way, TDK has a lot to do with duality. Nearly every major occurrence is foreshadowed if not subtly in a previous action, then in a quick line of dialogue. Harvey Dent and Bruce Wayne’s crime-fighting roles as the White Knight and Dark Knight are ideally two sides of the same coin (a coin appropriately being a physical motif essential to Dent’s character). Then the Joker, a singular mysterious threat, comes in like a wrecking ball, smashes those ideals, and sets the whole plot in motion. And what a plot it is.
How does it compare to the first movie?
Considered one of the best movies of the 2000s, I view The Dark Knight as the superior film of its trilogy, and that is no disrespect to Batman Begins. It is not entirely necessary to have seen Begins before TDK, but it is an excellent origin story that has its own ambiance, so nothing feels repetitive. It is also fun to see director Christopher Nolan play with his signature time jumps in the chronology of Begins whereas he does not in TDK.
Available for free on Netflix
Aliens (1986)
When thinking of films that provide a full-on adrenaline rush, the example that instantly pops in my head is Aliens, James Cameron’s go at the Alien series. It seemingly picks up right where the first one left off and then takes you for a wild ride full of futuristic weaponry, unique characters and even more aliens! The film tops itself scene by scene, with Sigourney Weaver playing Ripley as she leads the crew in the fight for their lives. It is peak James Cameron for me and a movie I would recommend to just about anyone who loves monster and action films, as well as those who are intrigued by the classic sci-fi debate on the benefits and dangers of artificial intelligence. And the fact that the film was made over three decades ago makes things that much more impressive given the visual effects, as I find it easy to forget there is little to no CGI. The movie is truly that encapsulating.
How does it compare to the first movie?
The 1979 Alien film directed by Ridley Scott is excellent in its slow pacing and horror aspects, but Aliens is a completely different animal with its high-octane plot. Alien certainly succeeds in what it is trying to do, but I feel like other films have succeeded in the same way; for me Aliens is almost unparalleled in its genre.
Available for free on HBO
Star Wars: Episode V - The Empire Strikes Back (1980)
Let’s stay in outer space for the next movie. Don’t let the V fool you, The Empire Strikes Back is the second film in the Star Wars saga, and boy does it elevate the drama, as the title reveals to us that our heroes are in for it; there will be failure before there can be victory. From the development of Han Solo and Princess Leia’s relationship, to examining the rigors of Luke’s training under Yoda, Empire has us follow characters we care about, which in turn makes its emotional impact that much more potent. Not only that, but the battle on Hoth and the settings of Cloud City and Dagobah take the series’ world-building to the next level. All these things and I haven’t even mentioned Darth Vader, who exists as one of the most recognizable characters in pop culture because of this film. Oh, and that cliffhanger!
How does it compare to the first movie?
I’ll be honest, I often can’t make up my mind on whether I enjoy Episode IV or Episode V more. I really like the final battle scene of Episode IV and how the movie can exist as a stand-alone film, but Episode V’s climax is also incredible and its legacy in the history of film in general makes it the most significant of the series. Even those who haven’t seen Star Wars know the famous twist, and if you do not, I envy you. The moment is so well known that not many new viewers get to experience the shock factor that must have swept theaters unlike anything else in blockbuster history.
Available for free on Disney+
Blade Runner 2049 (2017)
I rented Blade Runner 2049 in HD for $1.00 more than I normally rent films on YouTube, and it was one of the best decisions I have made when watching a movie. Denis Villenueve, one of my favorite directors right now, creates a visual masterpiece released 25 years after Blade Runner, the original sci-fi classic directed by Ridley Scott. 2049 stars Ryan Gosling as a replicant (the series' version of advanced cyborgs) who makes a miraculous discovery about the nature of his kind. This sets in motion a journey both spiritual and dangerous. The film has an amazing look, as Villenueve expands on the futuristic dystopia created in Ridley Scott’s version. Gosling is great, and the film’s villain Niander Wallace is eerily played by Jared Leto. The box office did not do it justice, but hopefully it gains the reputation it deserves, if anything for its success as a visual spectacle.
How does it compare to the first movie?
It is hard to match the source material in a case like this but 2049 is just so well done that the drop-off is not far, if you even want to compare the films at all. Granted, for me 2049 does not linger in my mind in the way Blade Runner does and has no moments like the classic “tears in rain” scene. But this does not take away the fact that I was left breathless as the credits rolled.
Available to rent on YouTube or Amazon Prime (Again, watch it in HD!)
The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers (2002)
A sequel of epic proportions, The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers set new heights for what a movie crew could achieve, especially with a battle sequence. Although the movie is three hours long, the Battle of Helm’s Deep will make you lose track of time, as the film succeeds in creating an intense and realistic night-time battle. As with most sequels, the stakes are raised, and we get to see further development of the main characters in their individual storylines. We are also introduced to new memorable players such as King Theoden, Eowen, Treebeard and of course Gollum, a ground-breaking CGI character who is played magnificently by Andy Serkis.
How does it compare to the first movie?
In the spirit of the books (or book if we are being technical), the Lord of the Rings movies were all filmed at the same time which is why they were all released in consecutive years. This also explains why the margin between the quality of the three films is so thin, perhaps even nonexistent. They are all awesome. As mentioned previously, Two Towers in my opinion has the best battle scene of the series, and really takes the film to a darker place. As a result, Two Towers does not have the adventurous charm of the first film, The Fellowship of the Ring, but that’s me just being nitpicky for the sake of the question at hand.
Available for free on Netflix
For a Few Dollars More (1967)
Sergio Leone’s second movie in his epic Dollars Trilogy was not originally meant to be a sequel, but the fact that all three films share its nameless protagonist earned it that label, so I feel compelled to include it here. In classic Leone fashion, trickery and deception reign supreme in this Spaghetti Western full of showdowns and double crossings. Clint Eastwood is great as the man with no name (in this film he’s referred to as Manco), but Lee Van Cleef and Gian Maria Volonte steal the show (particularly Volonte as El Indio, one of the vilest bad guys I’ve ever seen onscreen). The score is incredible as well and may be the highlight of the whole thing (how was Ennio Morricone able to keep topping himself in these movies???). In the end, For a Few Dollars More really illustrates how Leone was stepping up his game in ways that would lead to his eventual masterpieces.
How does it compare to the first movie?
It is not necessary to have seen A Fistful of Dollars first since the movies are stand-alone, but I prefer For a Few Dollars More, mainly due to its more intricate story and fantastic ending. And while both films are very good, for me they do not quite live up to the third tangential film, The Good, The Bad and The Ugly.
Available for free on Hulu w/Starz add-on
The Hunger Games: Catching Fire (2013)
I never got into the Hunger Games craze as much as my brother and some of my friends, so I had not read any of the books before watching Catching Fire (I still have not read them). Yet the film surprised me so much I watched it twice in theaters. The films’ 75th Hunger Games challenge recalls the Battle Royale-esque challenge of the first movie but with special modifications that serve as a political ploy, which in turn ups the entertainment factor. Another big plus is the allure of the characters, especially the supporting ones such as Finnick and Johanna, who reel you in by having you constantly question their trustworthiness. Its showdown aspect combined with the political significance of Katniss’ every move adds another thrilling layer as well. With twists, turns and surprises throughout the entire movie, Catching Fire proved to the me why the series, and this film specifically, resonates so much with its fans.
How does it compare to the first movie?
The Hunger Games is an entertaining intro to the series, but Catching Fire takes complete advantage of the fact that the characters are established, and it does all the right things with it, especially with Katniss’ development. Much of this is thanks to Susanne Collins’ story (which again, granted, I have not read), but the film and actors really execute it well, steadily revealing that the second entry is nothing like the first.
Available for free on Philo (I don’t know much about Philo, but like most of the other movies here you can rent this film on YouTube or Amazon Prime)
Troll 2 (1990)
I must make something clear about Troll 2; it is not good. It is terrible. It might even be considered the worst sequel of all time. It’s technically not even a sequel, it was named Troll 2 as a marketing ploy so people would go watch it thinking it was a sequel. So here I go breaking my own rules. But I am doing that in the spirit of Troll 2, which breaks all the rules on what should make a movie a positive experience. The acting is ridiculous, the script is nonsensical at times, and the premise makes not a lick of sense. Despite its title, there are no trolls in the movie, only goblins. Yet watching this cult-classic with a group of close friends with a uniting sense of humor is one of the purest film-viewing experiences one can have. I have so much love for Troll 2 because it showed me that movies can be this fun.
How does it compare to the first movie?
As previously established, Troll 2 has nothing to do with its less-than-mediocre predecessor,Troll. That being said, Troll 2 is objectively worse than Troll in every aspect of how films should be rated, yet it is better than Troll. Here are some odd facts about Troll though, a pre-Seinfeld Julia Louis-Dreyfus is in it and two of the characters are named Harry Potter (Jr. and Sr.). The movie was made in 1986, nine years before J.K. Rowling published the first book!
Available for free on Hulu with Cinemax add-on or to rent on Amazon Prime (Not available to rent on YouTube)
The Following Five:
Oldboy (2003)– Like For a Few Dollars More, it's part of a trilogy of movies with unrelated plots. But since I haven’t seen either of the others, I didn’t include it in my ten.
Kill Bill Vol. 2 (2004) – Very entertaining, but it was originally meant to be one film with Kill Bill Vol. 1. I also feel the need to watch it a few more times to truly appreciate it like I have with some of Tarantino’s other films.
The Matrix Reloaded (2003) – It's an awesome action movie with an all-time chase scene, but I clearly prefer the original, which is not the case for most if not all the movies on the list.
X2: X-Men United (2003) – A great superhero sequel but for me it’s nowhere near the level of The Dark Knight or Spider-Man 2.
Terminator 2: Judgement Day (1991) – Another game-changing James Cameron action movie, I didn’t quite experience the thrill I did when watching Aliens.
I hope you enjoyed the second edition of my blog. If this post has helped compel you to check out a new movie or movie series entirely, I am honored to have played a part. Once again, stay safe!
And indoors!
As much as possible!
- Ish
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