5 Horror Movie Franchises That Desperately Need Reboots

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2021 marks the return of a chilling legacy for “I Know What You Did Last Summer,” while 2025 is shaping up to be a golden era for fans of “Final Destination” and “28 Days.” Interestingly, the iconic franchise “Halloween” seems to be expanding its horizons with a cinematic universe. Add to that the rejuvenation of the classic sci-fi horror duo “Alien” and “Predator,” which are currently riding on their best installments in years, if not decades, and it’s clear: this is an exceptional time for aficionados of timeless horror!

Despite some IPs appearing inactive, there are several horror franchises that have thrived yet seem ripe for additional installments. Ranging from genre-blenders to elite IPs, here’s a look at the chilling series that could benefit from another terrifying chapter. The causes behind their extended hiatuses will be addressed, as well as the reasons they merit a jolt of fear-inducing excitement.

Critters

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Among numerous efforts to emulate the success of the movie “Gremlins”, it’s worth noting that the franchise “Critters” stood out as the most successful imitator. While it shared only superficial similarities with Joe Dante’s film, such as small, toothy antagonists, it was quite distinct in many other aspects. It’s important to note that none of the “Critters” movies could compete with the appeal of “Gremlins”, though “Critters 2: The Main Course” is certainly entertaining. However, the design of the creatures in the “Critters” series was arguably just as impressive as that of “Gremlins”.

Since many classic sequels utilize real-world effects to maintain the charm of their original properties, a fresh Critters installment might fit seamlessly within the franchise. Moreover, given the science fiction aspect of the series, improved CGI could enhance the credibility of a new addition. It’s not essential that the next installment be a full-length film, but since the last sighting of the Crites was in 2019 with the disappointing double blow of the direct-to-video Critters Attack! and the short-lived Shudder series Critters: A New Binge, there’s room for a refreshing take on the franchise.

Friday the 13th

To put it simply, it’s no secret that the “Friday the 13th” series is long overdue for a revival. In fact, it’s set to return in a major way with the multimedia project titled “JASON UN1V3RSE.” However, given the past fifteen years and some unfulfilled promises, many dedicated fans are expressing skepticism, preferring to say “we’ll believe it when we see it,” rather than “I can’t wait.

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Prior to Victor Miller’s lawsuit against Sean S. Cunningham, who was both director and producer, halting the progress of the franchise, there had been no significant talks about the future of the IP for years, whether it was a sequel to the 2009 remake or something else. The lawsuit caused widespread effects, even affecting the popular video game that was shut down on December 31, 2024. Now that the lawsuit has been resolved, the franchise is regaining traction, but without a doubt, it’s a slasher series that desperately needs a refresh if it wants to pique audience interest again.

Gremlins

The idea of remaking the movie franchise “Gremlins” on the big screen seems like a logical choice. However, it’s not just a matter of making a reboot; it requires the right people and practical effects to pull it off effectively. Firstly, the touch of producer Steven Spielberg is crucial for maintaining the original’s charm. Secondly, director Joe Dante, who last directed in 2014 with “Burying the Ex,” should be considered for his past contributions to the franchise.

There’s also a possibility that the original actors, Zach Galligan and (the now retired) Phoebe Cates, could make an appearance. However, since Hayden Panettiere recently returned to acting in “Scream VI”, there’s always a chance that Cates might consider it as well. Interestingly, Cates lent her voice for the 2015 game “LEGO Dimensions,” marking her first project in over a decade and a half, suggesting she still holds a soft spot for the 1984 original.

A Nightmare on Elm Street

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Should any of these entries be questionable, it’s “A Nightmare on Elm Street” that might raise some eyebrows. The reason being, there simply isn’t a Freddy Krueger without Robert Englund, and as he himself has acknowledged, Englund is no longer quite the right age for the role.

Should a skilled actor like Kevin Bacon step into the role and breathe new life into it, this film could boast an enviable ensemble cast. The prospect of Heather Langenkamp reprising her iconic character Nancy Thompson has been hinted at, which adds intrigue to the mix. Moreover, Maika Monroe, star of “Longlegs” and “It Follows,” has openly expressed her affection for this franchise, potentially setting us up for a winning collaboration.

Tremors

When the movie “Tremors” was unveiled, Kevin Bacon’s acting career was at a critical juncture, desperately needing a hit. It’s said that he once burst into tears on the sidewalk, exclaiming, “I can’t believe I’m going to be in a movie about enormous worms!” However, as the film gained popularity on home video, his perspective changed. And indeed, it should have, because the original “Tremors” is an exceptional film, skillfully merging horror, science fiction, comedy, and Western elements into one entertaining package that can be enjoyed repeatedly.

Mentioning Bacon serves to highlight that although the Tremors series continues through direct-to-video and streaming sequels, it’s missing the seriousness he brought to the original film. Regrettably, his co-star from the first movie, Fred Ward, is no longer with us. However, Bacon has signaled his willingness to return as Valentine McKee, as demonstrated by his portrayal in a 2018 SYFY Channel pilot that unfortunately wasn’t produced.

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2025-01-09 17:09