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Great films are often ruined by the ever-looming villain: the sequel. Ok, so “Terminator 2” was an exception, and yeah “Aliens” was bad**s but most follow-up flicks aren’t nearly as inspiring as their predecessors. Remember “National Treasure: Book of Secrets?” Never mind, you likely, and justifiably so, attempted to repress that Dan Brown knock-off. If the recent talk of “Beetlejuice 2” and “Space Jam 2” incited accusations of “utter blasphemy,” you’re not alone. Let’s check out the top 5 worst sequel ideas, and here’s to hoping they don’t become realities.
Want to share a particularly atrocious sequel idea? Know of a continuing film franchise that should be put out of its misery? Comment below or tweet @mitchellclong
“The Big Lebowski” theoretical sequel
The Coen Brothers classic depicts affable stoner Jeff “The Dude” Lebowski (Jeff Bridges). Our poor hero simply wants his rug replaced, and becomes mixed up in some wacky happenings. But what would a sequel even be? Narrator The Stranger (Sam Elliott) mentions a little “Dude” on the way, a la Maude Lebowski (Julianne Moore). The Dude a father? While this could be an interesting take on everybody’s favorite White Russian guzzling pothead, chances are it would be a disappointment. Even if the movie were great, the original set such a high bar that, well, expectations would assuredly not be met.
“Fight Club” theoretical sequel
Based on Chuck Palahniuk’s novel of the same name, the cult hit didn’t fare particularly well at box offices. Since its home video release, “Fight Club” has been recognized as a visionary production. There’s an enormous twist, which shall not be spoiled, thus calling into question a “Fight Club 2.” Frankly, the venture would be so insufferable that the only fighting would be you, the viewer, unsuccessfully fighting the urge to flee the theater. Great movie, awful sequel potential. Next!
“Dr. Strangelove” theoretical sequel
Prolific director Stanley Kubrick’s oft-glanced over “Dr. Strangelove” captures the neurotic Cold War paranoia. A unique plot certainly bolstered the film’s appeal, but Peter Sellers and George C. Scott certify “Dr. Strangelove” as a revolutionary flick. In 1995 Kubrick apparently entertained the notion of a sequel “Son of Strangelove.” Furthering the story was a questionable idea, even more so considering the length of time between the original and the proposed “Son of Strangelove.” Let’s rejoice this project didn’t come to fruition.
“12 Monkeys” theoretical sequel
Terry Gilliam’s sci-fi flick featuring Brad Pitt and Bruce Willis is a must-see. A mind-bending, artful adventure, themes of memory and history would cause Philip K. Dick to blush. The delicate plot means “12 Monkeys” is a one-time gig. A second entry wouldn’t quite develop. Actually it would, sort of. Then again, maybe not. Well, you get the point. Just watch the movie if you haven’t, and then guess what a sequel would entail.
“Blade Runner”
Now considered an essential cultural experience, “Blade Runner” features more incarnations than an amoeba. While the Director’s Cut and Final Cut are undoubtedly the proper versions to watch, the theatrical cut featured an abysmal voice-over by Harrison Ford as well as a “happy ending.” This so-called fairy tale conclusion saw protagonist Rick Deckard (Ford) and android Rachael (Sean Young) escaping into the idyllic countryside. Though the soothing sax feels out of place considering footage used in the escape harks from unused scenes from Kubrick’s “The Shining” opening. Unfortunately, it appears a sequel is in the works. Hopefully Deckard retires this script before it has the opportunity to wreak havoc upon cinemas. However if “Blade Runner 2” features a Rick Deckard-Jack Torrance (Jack Nicholson) showdown, then go for it Ridley Scott.
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