25 Movies That Should Get a Sequel

Some movies end perfectly, telling a complete story from start to finish. They leave audiences satisfied, with no need for a follow-up. Other films, however, finish with lingering questions, a world that feels too big for just one story, or characters so beloved that viewers would do anything to see them again. These are the movies that spark conversations for years, with fans creating online petitions and cast members hopefully discussing a return.

Hollywood often focuses on established franchises, but many standalone films have built-in audiences waiting for a new chapter. From action-packed blockbusters that ended on a cliffhanger to comedies with characters whose chemistry was too good for a single outing, the list of movies deserving a sequel is long. These films have rich potential, with unexplored lore, unfinished character arcs, and a passionate fanbase ready for another installment.

Dredd (2012)

This film follows Judge Dredd, a lawman with the power of judge, jury, and executioner in a futuristic city. He and a rookie Judge are trapped in a 200-story slum run by a ruthless drug lord. The movie was praised for its intense action, dark humor, and faithful portrayal of the comic book source material. It was a gritty and efficient thriller that captured the harsh reality of Mega-City One.

Despite becoming a cult classic, Dredd did not perform well at the box office, stopping plans for a trilogy. Fans have been campaigning for a sequel ever since its release, with star Karl Urban even expressing his willingness to return. The world of Judge Dredd is vast, with countless stories from the comics left to adapt. A sequel could explore more of the unique setting and introduce classic villains.

The Nice Guys (2016)

Set in 1977 Los Angeles, this movie pairs a clumsy private eye with a tough enforcer. They team up to investigate the case of a missing girl and the death of a porn star, uncovering a widespread conspiracy. The film was celebrated for the incredible chemistry between its leads, Ryan Gosling and Russell Crowe, and its sharp, witty dialogue. It perfectly blended a compelling mystery with laugh-out-loud moments.

The Nice Guys ended with the two main characters deciding to become partners, perfectly setting up a future for them as detectives. Director Shane Black and the cast have shown interest in making another film, and audiences have been eager to see the duo tackle another case. The 1970s setting and the hilarious dynamic between the leads provide a great formula for a new detective story.

Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World (2003)

This historical epic is set during the Napoleonic Wars. It follows Captain Jack Aubrey of the British Royal Navy as he pushes his ship and crew to their limits to capture a formidable French war vessel. The film was acclaimed for its stunning realism, detailed depiction of life at sea, and the strong friendship between the captain and the ship’s surgeon, Stephen Maturin.

The movie was based on a series of 20 novels by author Patrick O’Brian, which means there is a huge amount of source material for a sequel. The film only adapted parts of the book series, leaving many adventures unexplored. Star Russell Crowe has repeatedly expressed his desire to make another film, and fans are hopeful that Captain Aubrey will one day sail again.

Alita: Battle Angel (2019)

Based on a popular manga series, this film introduces Alita, a cyborg who awakens in a futuristic city with no memory of her past. She is taken in by a compassionate doctor and soon discovers she has extraordinary fighting abilities. The movie was praised for its groundbreaking visual effects and exciting action sequences, creating a rich and detailed world.

Alita: Battle Angel ends on a massive cliffhanger, with the main villain revealed and Alita vowing to reach the sky city of Zalem to confront him. The story was clearly set up for a sequel, and the film’s dedicated fanbase, known as the Alita Army, has been actively campaigning for one. There are many more stories from the manga that a sequel could adapt, continuing Alita’s journey of self-discovery.

District 9 (2009)

This science fiction film presents a world where aliens have arrived on Earth and are forced to live in slum-like conditions in South Africa. The story follows a government agent who becomes exposed to alien biotechnology and must rely on his new alien friends to survive. The movie was a surprise hit, praised for its originality, social commentary, and impressive visual effects.

The film’s ending left the door wide open for a sequel. The main character is left transformed into one of the aliens, waiting for his friend to return and cure him. For years, director Neill Blomkamp has talked about his desire to make a follow-up, tentatively titled District 10, to continue the story and explore the consequences of the first film’s events.

The Man from U.N.C.L.E. (2015)

At the height of the Cold War, a CIA agent and a KGB operative are forced to team up to stop a mysterious criminal organization. This stylish action-comedy, based on a 1960s TV series, was noted for its slick direction, fun tone, and the charismatic performances of its leads, Henry Cavill and Armie Hammer. It offered a cool and charming spy adventure.

The movie concludes with the rival agents being assigned to a new international organization, setting the stage for more missions. Despite its positive reception, the film’s box office was not strong enough to guarantee a sequel. However, a loyal fanbase has continued to call for another installment, wanting to see the agents on a new adventure.

Edge of Tomorrow (2014)

In this sci-fi action film, an officer with no combat experience is thrown into a war against an alien race. He is killed within minutes but finds himself in a time loop, reliving the same brutal day over and over. He uses the loop to become a better soldier and find a way to defeat the enemy. The film was praised for its clever premise, thrilling action, and the dynamic between stars Tom Cruise and Emily Blunt.

A sequel, titled Live Die Repeat and Repeat, has been in development for years, with the director and main cast all interested in returning. The story would reportedly continue the time-bending narrative of the first film. Fans are eager to see the next chapter, as the original was a smart and inventive take on the sci-fi genre.

Constantine (2005)

This supernatural thriller stars Keanu Reeves as John Constantine, a cynical demonologist who can see the angels and demons that walk the Earth. He is drawn into a case involving a police detective whose sister’s death is more than it seems. The film gained a cult following for its unique visual style and Reeves’s portrayal of the occult anti-hero.

A sequel was officially announced in 2022, with Keanu Reeves set to return to the role after years of expressing his interest. The original film only scratched the surface of the vast lore found in the Hellblazer comics. A sequel has the chance to explore more of Constantine’s complex character and introduce other supernatural elements from the source material.

Hancock (2008)

This film offers a unique take on the superhero genre. It centers on Hancock, a powerful but reckless and unpopular superhero who causes millions of dollars in damage every time he saves the day. He gets help from a public relations specialist to improve his image, only to discover a secret about his own past. The movie was a box office success, presenting a flawed and interesting hero.

The ending revealed that Hancock is not the only one of his kind and that these beings lose their powers when they are near each other. This twist set up a larger world of super-powered individuals with a long history. Will Smith and the film’s director have discussed ideas for a sequel over the years, which could explore this mythology and show Hancock as a more refined hero.

Jumper (2008)

A young man discovers he has the ability to teleport anywhere in the world. He uses his power for personal gain until he realizes he is being hunted by a secret society dedicated to eliminating “Jumpers.” The film was a fast-paced action adventure that explored an interesting and visually exciting superpower. It was based on a novel by Steven Gould.

Jumper ended with the main character just beginning to understand the ancient war between Jumpers and their hunters, the Paladins. The movie was intended to launch a franchise, but its mixed critical reception put those plans on hold. The author of the original book wrote several sequels, providing plenty of material for a follow-up movie to expand on the world and its rules.

Real Steel (2011)

Set in the near future where robot boxing is a top sport, a former boxer and small-time promoter teams up with his estranged son. Together, they find and train an old sparring robot, turning it into a championship contender. The movie was a heartwarming and exciting story about family and underdogs, with impressive robot fighting action.

The film had a satisfying but open-ended conclusion, with the main robot, Atom, becoming the “People’s Champion” despite a technical loss. Fans and star Hugh Jackman have long been interested in a sequel. A follow-up could explore the bond between the father and son as they continue their journey in the world of robot boxing, possibly aiming for an undisputed title.

The Adventures of Tintin (2011)

This animated film brought the classic European comic book character to life using motion-capture technology. The story follows the young reporter Tintin and his dog, Snowy, as they go on a treasure hunt for a sunken ship commanded by an ancestor of Captain Haddock. The movie was praised for its dazzling visuals, fun sense of adventure, and faithfulness to the spirit of the comics.

The film’s ending directly sets up a sequel, with Tintin and Haddock preparing to search for another lost treasure. Director Steven Spielberg and producer Peter Jackson had planned for Jackson to direct a second film. Though the project has been delayed for years, both filmmakers still express hope that they will get to make another adventure.

Popstar: Never Stop Never Stopping (2016)

This mockumentary follows Conner4Real, a famous pop star whose career goes into a tailspin after his second album flops. The film hilariously satirizes the modern music industry and celebrity culture. It was created by The Lonely Island comedy trio and is filled with catchy, funny songs and celebrity cameos. While it wasn’t a box office hit, it has become a beloved cult classic.

The film’s format and characters are perfect for a sequel. A follow-up could see Conner attempting a comeback, trying a new musical genre, or dealing with a new celebrity scandal. The members of The Lonely Island have mentioned they would be open to another film if they had the right idea, and fans would love to see what Conner4Real is up to now.

Game Night (2018)

A group of friends who regularly meet for a game night find themselves in the middle of a real-life mystery when one of them is kidnapped. The film was a critical and commercial success, celebrated for its clever and twisting plot, genuine laughs, and strong ensemble cast. It kept audiences guessing with its mix of high-stakes action and comedy.

The movie works as a standalone story, but the chemistry of the cast was so strong that many viewers wanted to see them in another situation. A sequel could reunite the characters for another “game night” that goes horribly wrong. The directors and cast have said they would be interested in returning if the script was just as good as the original.

Tucker & Dale vs. Evil (2010)

This horror-comedy tells the story of two well-meaning hillbillies who are mistaken for killers by a group of vacationing college students. A series of bizarre and gory accidents ensues as the students’ misunderstandings lead to their own demise. The film cleverly flips horror movie stereotypes on their head and is both funny and surprisingly sweet.

A sequel has been discussed for years due to the original’s cult status. The main appeal is the lovable duo of Tucker and Dale, and fans would enjoy seeing them caught in another absurd and terrifying situation. The creators have considered various ideas, including a follow-up where the two characters have to deal with their newfound local fame as survivors of a “massacre.”

The Golden Compass (2007)

Based on the first book of Philip Pullman’s acclaimed His Dark Materials trilogy, this fantasy film is set in a parallel universe where people have animal companions called daemons. It follows a young girl named Lyra as she travels to the Arctic to rescue her friend and other kidnapped children from a mysterious organization. The film had a strong cast and impressive visual world-building.

The movie was criticized for changing the book’s darker themes and controversial ending, which may have contributed to its underwhelming box office performance in the U.S. Because of this, planned sequels that would have adapted the other two books were canceled. While a successful TV show has now told the complete story, many still wish to see the original film’s cast finish their version of the epic trilogy.

Rango (2011)

This animated film follows a pet chameleon who accidentally ends up in a desert town called Dirt, which is in desperate need of a hero. He pretends to be a tough gunslinger and is made the new sheriff, forced to solve the town’s water crisis. The movie was a hit with critics and audiences, winning the Oscar for Best Animated Feature. It was praised for its stunning animation and quirky, clever story.

Rango tells a complete story but creates a rich and strange world filled with memorable characters. A sequel could see Rango take on a new threat to the town of Dirt or venture out into the wider desert. Director Gore Verbinski created a unique Western universe that feels ripe for further exploration, offering more opportunities for visual creativity and smart storytelling.

Coraline (2009)

This stop-motion animated film is based on a book by Neil Gaiman. It tells the story of Coraline, a young girl who discovers a secret door in her new home that leads to an alternate, idealized version of her life. She soon learns that this other world holds a dark and dangerous secret. The film was praised for its beautiful animation, creepy atmosphere, and imaginative story.

While the original story is self-contained, the world it created feels like it could hold more tales. Director Henry Selick has said he would only make a sequel if he had a story that was as good as the original, wanting to avoid a simple retread. Fans remain hopeful that another story from that universe, perhaps about another child who finds a similar door, could be told one day.

Big Trouble in Little China (1986)

This action-comedy cult classic stars Kurt Russell as Jack Burton, a fast-talking truck driver who gets pulled into a mystical battle in San Francisco’s Chinatown. He must help his friend rescue his fiancée from an ancient sorcerer. The film is known for its blend of martial arts, magic, and humor, as well as its charismatic but comically inept hero.

The movie ends with Jack driving his truck into the night, unaware that one of the sorcerer’s monsters is hiding on the back. This final shot teases another adventure that was never made. The film’s unique world and tone have inspired comics and games, showing that there is a demand for more stories. A sequel could follow Jack Burton on another absurd supernatural adventure.

The Rocketeer (1991)

Set in 1938 Los Angeles, this film follows a stunt pilot who discovers a powerful jetpack prototype. He uses it to become a high-flying hero named The Rocketeer, attracting the attention of Howard Hughes, the FBI, and Nazi spies. The movie is a fun, old-fashioned adventure with a charming, nostalgic feel. It has since become a beloved cult favorite.

The film was intended to be the first part of a trilogy, but it did not perform as well as expected at the box office. The character of The Rocketeer has a rich history in comics, providing many more stories to draw from. A long-gestating sequel/reboot titled The Return of the Rocketeer is reportedly in development, giving fans hope that the hero will fly on the big screen again.

Tron: Legacy (2010)

This sequel to the 1982 film Tron follows the son of video game developer Kevin Flynn as he gets pulled into the same digital world where his father has been trapped for 20 years. The movie was noted for its stunning visual effects, unique design, and an acclaimed soundtrack by Daft Punk. It expanded the world of Tron for a new generation.

Tron: Legacy ended with Flynn’s son escaping the digital world along with a unique program named Quorra. A third film, which would have explored what happens when a digital being enters the real world, was in development before being canceled. The cast and director have continued to express interest, and there are persistent rumors that a third installment may still happen.

Chronicle (2012)

This found-footage film follows three high school friends who gain telekinetic powers after discovering a mysterious object. At first, they use their abilities for fun and games, but as their powers grow stronger, their friendship is tested, and things take a much darker turn. The movie was praised as a fresh and grounded take on the superhero genre.

The film ends with only one of the main characters surviving, now more powerful than ever. He is last seen flying towards Tibet, promising to find out what happened to them and become a better person. This ending provides a clear path for a sequel, following a super-powered individual on the run as he tries to control his immense abilities.

Galaxy Quest (1999)

This beloved comedy satirizes sci-fi fandom and shows like Star Trek. It tells the story of the cast of a canceled science fiction TV show who are beamed aboard a real spaceship by aliens who have mistaken their show for historical documents. The washed-up actors are forced to become the heroes they once played. The film is celebrated for its humor, heart, and perfect cast.

For years, there were talks of a sequel, either as a movie or a TV series, with the original cast and writers interested in returning. A potential story was even planned before the tragic passing of star Alan Rickman. While a sequel without him would be difficult, many fans still hope for a continuation that could honor his character while exploring new adventures with the rest of the crew.

The Mitchells vs. the Machines (2021)

This animated comedy follows the quirky Mitchell family on a road trip that gets interrupted by a robot apocalypse. The world’s technology, led by a bitter AI, decides to capture all humans. The Mitchells become humanity’s last hope. The film was widely praised for its unique animation style, humor, and heartfelt story about family connection.

The movie ends with the family stronger than ever, embarking on another adventure. The characters are so lovable and their dynamic so funny that audiences would gladly watch them face another crisis. A sequel could see the Mitchells deal with another technological or even a supernatural threat, all while navigating their hilarious and relatable family issues.

Hellboy (2004)

Directed by Guillermo del Toro, this film brought the iconic comic book character to life. Hellboy, a demon summoned by Nazis but raised by an American scientist, works for a secret government agency to protect the world from supernatural threats. The movie was praised for its incredible practical effects, imaginative creature design, and Ron Perlman’s perfect portrayal of the title character.

Del Toro made a sequel, Hellboy II: The Golden Army, which ended on a major cliffhanger: Hellboy learns he is destined to bring about the apocalypse and that his girlfriend, Liz, is pregnant with twins. The director had a clear vision for a third film that would have completed the trilogy and resolved these epic storylines. Despite the cast and director’s passion, the final chapter was never made, leaving fans wondering what could have been.