There are these rare times when sequels turn out to be even better than the original film. Titles like Terminator 2: Judgment Day and Rocky II are living proofs of that. Take a look at these 10 sequels that are better than the original:
1. Top Gun: Maverick
The original Top Gun was unquestionably great. Fans were skeptical if a sequel after more than three decades would be able to leave a mark that impactful. With over half a billion in the pocket already, the actioner has become Top Cruise’s 5th biggest global grosser with a 97% score on the Tomatometer.
2. The Dark Knight
Batman Begins was a thrill because we witnessed what Christina Bale could do with Nolan at the helm. However, the sequel became a cultural landmark with Heath Ledger’s Joker in action. The magic that Ledger created 15 years back still remains untouched by any other villain.
3. Godfather II
When Francis Ford Coppola adapted the hit Mario Puzo book “The Godfather” into a film, little did he know that he was creating one of the greatest movies ever. The sequel however turned out to be even better. Making two iconic films in the same franchise is not something we see happening every day.
4. Spider-Man 2
Sam Raimi’s Spider-Man paved the way for what became a doorway to the superhero genre. The first film was indeed groundbreaking but Doc Ock and Peter Parker’s shaky relationship in the sequel added the rightful amount of drama that the audience missed in the first part.
5. Mad Max: Fury Road
Just like Top Gun, this film franchise too had its sequel made after more than 30 years. While the franchise had already produced gems, this sequel with Tom Hardy as Max kept us at the very edge of our seats throughout the film.
6. Furious 7
A film that many believe could’ve been a good end to the saga as it was the last good film that came from the franchise. Furious 7 proved that Fast & Furious films weren’t just about gear heads sipping Coronas.
7. Rush Hour 2
The odd chemistry between Inspector Lee and Detective Carter became an unexpected but instant hit at the box office. Things turned even better when this duo took their journey to Lee’s hometown which involved more jokes, more action, and more drama.
8. Magic Mike XXL
Magic Mike revolved around a unique story that earned it applaud for being a well made emotionally investing film. The sequel, however, celebrated the art of stripping making it a lot more lighthearted and fun. The film gave a subtly powerful message and explained the importance of not worrying about the world judging you when you’re doing what makes you happy.
9. Paddington 2
Just like the others on this list Paddington 2 lived up to the hype that it had created and doesn’t suffer from the sequel curse How can anyone hate this bear? Those innocent eyes, that soft butter melting voice, and the British charm. Even during his comedic mess-ups, you can’t get mad or annoyed at him. It’s utterly delightful.
10. Bad Boys II
Around the time when it was released, Bad Boys II was heavily criticized for its lack of substance and its plot. The film might not be what we call perfect but with its over-the-top death-defying stunts, it was surely a nonstop thrill ride.
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