Hollywood is doubling down on sequels in 2026, with titles like The Devil Wears Prada 2, another installment in the Super Mario Bros franchise, and a highly anticipated follow-up to Godzilla Minus One, reports BritPanorama.
The prevailing sentiment among audiences is that sequels often fail to capture the essence of their predecessors. Historical examples abound, from the disappointing Iron Man 2 to Sex and the City 2, considered one of the lowest points in romantic comedies. Nevertheless, certain sequels have defied expectations, proving to be noteworthy additions, a trend highlighted by several standout examples.
Paddington 2
Ben Whishaw’s return as the lovable bear in Paddington 2 showcased not only humour but also the scene-stealing prowess of Hugh Grant, whose portrayal of the villain Phoenix Buchanan revitalized the franchise. This sequel, released in 2017, garnered critical acclaim, cementing its status as a beloved family film.
Streaming on Prime Video
Top Gun: Maverick
In Top Gun: Maverick, Tom Cruise reprised his iconic role nearly four decades later, exceeding expectations for a sequel to a film that once defined his career. The film, which emerged as a post-pandemic cultural phenomenon, featured a poignant cameo from Val Kilmer as Iceman, enhancing its emotional depth.
Streaming on Paramount+
Captain America: The Winter Soldier
Marvel’s sequel Captain America: The Winter Soldier rejuvenated the superhero genre by incorporating elements of political thrillers. This approach, along with compelling performances from Chris Evans and Scarlett Johansson, made it one of the standout films in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Streaming on Disney+
Before Sunset
Richard Linklater’s Before Sunset serves as a reflection on love and the implications of choices made in youth. The sequel to Before Sunrise, it sees the two leads reunite and improvise much of their dialogue, offering a realistic portrayal of evolving relationships.
Rent on Prime Video
Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan
