The Worst Spinoffs of Beloved Movie Series

It’s common knowledge that the movie business is heavily influenced by series, franchises, and connected universes. So much so, that when a studio has a hit film, it often leads to the creation of a new shared cinematic world within just a few years.

As a movie enthusiast, I can tell you that transforming a humble series into a thriving franchise hinges on one crucial element: the success of spin-offs that resonate as deeply as the original production. These could revolve around previously overlooked side characters finally given their time to shine, or delve into related intellectual properties nestled within the same universe yet to be fully explored on the big screen, or even introduce an entirely novel narrative with subtle Easter eggs subtly hinting at a shared connection.

As a film enthusiast, I’ve noticed a fascinating pattern in the industry: many studios are still trying to recreate the magic of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, with its Avengers saga and subsequent expansions. However, not every attempt hits the mark. Sometimes, a promising spin-off turns out to be a flop, a film that fails to ignite the spark for an entirely new series. These misfires are often forgotten, left in the dust as the studio moves on to other projects. Today, we’re diving into these films—the poorly conceived, the poorly executed, and the downright awful attempts to mine more narrative gold from established universes. Some of these even have dedicated fanbases, but even they will acknowledge that the original is always superior.

The Worst Spinoffs of Beloved Movie Franchises

U.S. Marshals (1998)

The movie “The Fugitive,” originally released in 1993, is a popular reboot of an old television series that has resonated with many dads and fans of Harrison Ford. However, it’s understandable if you don’t remember the spinoff titled “U.S. Marshals.” This spinoff-sequel features Tommy Lee Jones reprising his role as Marshal Sam Gerard and takes on another fugitive from justice, played by Wesley Snipes. Robert Downey Jr. and Joe Pantoliano also star as fellow federal agents in this film.

“U.S. Marshals” wasn’t a complete disaster, but it felt like an overt attempt to create a franchise out of a standalone movie, which is why audiences didn’t embrace it as they did the original film. A more fitting description for such a spinoff might be: “You enjoyed watching that man evade the law, but wouldn’t you also be interested in knowing about the other cases these law enforcement officers handle?” This sentiment seems more suited to a mid-2000s Fox primetime drama rather than a summer blockbuster movie.

The Scorpion King (2002)

Originally stemming from “The Mummy Returns” (2001), it’s hard to call “The Scorpion King” a flop, considering there are five movies under this franchise, with plans for a reboot. However, only one of these films had a theatrical release. Universal wanted to broaden the universe of “The Mummy,” and opted for a spinoff/prequel focusing on the half-man-half-scorpion creature portrayed by Dwayne Johnson in “The Mummy Returns.” The film tells the origin story of Mathayus of Akkad, the legendary Scorpion King. This marked Johnson’s debut as a leading actor, and its soundtrack includes music from bands like Godsmack, System of a Down, and Nickelback. Despite this impressive lineup, the blend of action cliches and historical inaccuracies fell short. Remarkably, four more direct-to-video sequels have been produced over time, each featuring different muscular actors taking on the Scorpion King role.

Catwoman (2004)

Originally conceived from the 1992 film “Batman Returns”, the standalone movie “Catwoman” was critically panned and commercially unsuccessful. Despite initial plans to develop a spinoff centered around Michelle Pfeiffer’s Selina Kyle character, the project became mired in development hell. Warner Bros. eventually revived it, but instead of setting it within the main Batman universe, they introduced Halle Berry’s lead as an original character with no connection to DC Comics’ Catwoman lore. The film was universally criticized for its overt sexualization and absurdity at the time of release. “Catwoman” serves as a prime example of poorly executed female-led superhero spinoffs, which have been prevalent throughout the years, often due to studio’s eagerness to capitalize on these characters without providing them with the same thoughtful treatment as their male counterparts (such as “Supergirl”, “Elektra”, and “Madame Web”).

The movie “Catwoman” was a flop, based on the character from “Batman Returns”. Despite initial plans to create a spinoff focusing on Michelle Pfeiffer’s Selina Kyle, the project got stuck in development limbo. Warner Bros. later revived it but didn’t set it in the main Batman universe. Instead, Halle Berry played an original character who wasn’t tied to DC Comics’ Catwoman history. The movie was panned for being too sexualized and silly when it came out, and it flopped at the box office. It’s one of many examples of poorly executed female superhero spinoffs, often due to studios rushing these characters without giving them the same level of thoughtful development as their male counterparts (e.g., “Supergirl”, “Elektra”, and “Madame Web”).

Evan Almighty (2007)

Originally stemming from the 2003 film “Bruce Almighty,” the spinoff titled “Evan Almighty” failed to escape the wrath of both critics and audiences. Unlike its initial counterpart that quickly became a cultural phenomenon upon release, the spinoff centered around Bruce’s rival Evan (Steve Carell) was met with far less affection. The film is a contemporary adaptation of Noah and the flood story, featuring a massive wooden ark and pairs of animals traveling two by two, but with a twist: instead of an ancient figure, Noah is now a newly elected congressman grappling with his strained family ties, and the flood originates from a poorly constructed dam near a lake in Northern Virginia. The film’s primary flaw lies in its lack of humor, a stark departure from its predecessor and falling short of recapturing its comedic allure.

The Bourne Legacy (2012)

In an attempt to keep the Bourne action series going without its main character, Universal produced The Bourne Legacy as a spinoff from The Bourne Identity (2002). However, due to scheduling conflicts with director Paul Greengrass and actor Matt Damon, this film does not feature Jason Bourne. Set during the events of The Bourne Ultimatum (2007), The Bourne Legacy follows Aaron Cross (played by Jeremy Renner), a government agent who relies on performance-enhancing drugs to maintain his abilities. When the government agency that created him is shut down, Cross becomes a target and must evade capture while uncovering the truth about its misdeeds. The film combines elements of a typical Bourne movie with some science fiction aspects, similar to those found in Michael Crichton’s works. Critics and audiences had mixed reactions to this spinoff, as Jeremy Renner is not Matt Damon.

Planes (2013)

Originating from the blockbuster film “Cars” (2006), it was no surprise that Disney considered expanding their universe to include vehicles. Since planes are undeniably cooler than cars, they decided to explore this concept in the movies “Planes” and its sequel “Planes: Fire and Rescue”. The stories revolve around animated aircraft, promoting the idea of striving for your dreams with the help of camaraderie. Dane Cook voices the main character in both films. However, these movies are often criticized as being generic and lacking humor, making them suitable for keeping the youngest Disney fans entertained for 90 minutes, but not particularly engaging beyond that.

Solo: A Star Wars Story (2018)

Title Derived From: Star Wars (1977)

A sense of unease about the production process was palpable even for casual Star Wars enthusiasts, but few anticipated just how disappointing Solo: A Star Wars Story would turn out. Disney, eager to exploit their freshly acquired franchise, overstepped the mark in their efforts to produce content outside the main storyline, and generally speaking, these endeavors fell short (opinions on Rogue One may differ). Solo stands out as the most significant misstep, a production fraught with difficulties leading to an underwhelming origin story for such an iconic character that it was hard to accept any actor other than the original in the role. The plot delved too deeply into explanations and left fans hanging with an ending suggesting a sequel that never materialized. At least the character Enfys Nest has a catchy name.

Hobbs & Shaw (2019)

It’s surprising that it took so long for the Fast and Furious franchise to produce spinoffs, but Hobbs & Shaw didn’t quite meet audience expectations. Initially, characters Luke Hobbs (played by Dwayne Johnson) and Deckard Shaw (Jason Statham), who were popular among fans, seemed perfect for a standalone film. Given their individual star power, it was expected that they could carry a movie separate from the main series.

The concept was intriguing, and the previews looked promising. However, the final product turned out to be an extended buddy comedy with a convoluted plot and an excessive focus on outrageous stunts. Plans for a sequel seem to have been put on hold.

The New Mutants (2020)

Origins: The New Mutants (2000 Spinoff)

Similar to many films on this list, “The New Mutants” encountered significant studio interference. This was largely due to Disney’s acquisition of 20th Century Fox happening during the movie’s production. A spinoff from the X-Men film series, “The New Mutants” centered around a fresh and younger group of superhuman individuals confined within a clandestine facility. With a three-year gap between its filming and release (August 2020, which didn’t help its cause), scheduled reshoots, abandoned reshoots, visual effects that were completed by a different director, and an average plot, the movie struggled to resonate with audiences. It served as a somber conclusion for the Fox X-Men series as we had known it.

Argylle (2024)

Originally stemming from the 2014 film “Kingsman: The Secret Service”, the offshoot titled “Argylle” was subtly hinted during its end credits. This unusual blend of slapstick humor and spy adventure, marred by poor cinematography and a questionable action scene featuring Bryce Dallas Howard skating on oil, is arguably one of the worst spinoffs in this list. The concept revolving around an unremarkable author (Howard) whose fictional spies hold the key to a genuine secret agent conspiracy has an intriguing premise. However, the movie falls short of expectations, failing to live up to the eccentric combination of elements it presents.

The 10 Worst Sequels of the Last 10 Years (2015-2024)

10. Inferno (2016)

A fanatical scientist thinks the world must be saved by reducing its population in half, so he develops a deadly virus that will do just that. He kills himself to ensure the virus can’t be stopped from being released in three days, yet he also sets up a complex trail of puzzles and riddles that could potentially prevent the virus’ release. It seems odd that he would create such a trail when releasing the virus alone would achieve his goal. This sequel is filled with illogical elements, such as no one noticing a priceless artwork has been stolen from a world-class museum until the thief returns to ask for the security footage. Everyone in this museum should have been dismissed, along with the filmmakers.

In other words, the movie is full of confusing and unrealistic events that make you wonder if anyone involved should still be employed.

9. Expend4bles (2023)

Since its inception, “The Expendables” franchise has been more of an enticing marketing ploy than a truly compelling series. To be fair, the concept of vintage action stars uniting for one final ass-kicking spree (or should I say, four final sprees) is an excellent marketing strategy. However, in reality, “Expendables 4” fails to meet its own expectations; by this point in the series, only Sylvester Stallone and Dolph Lundgren are left among the original action heroes, and their roles are rather insignificant.

The brief fight between Jason Statham and Iko Uwais is the film’s sole highlight, but overall, it fails to deliver as a thrilling action movie. The special effects, primarily CGI, lack quality and do not evoke the authentic, gritty atmosphere of ’80s action movies that this series aims to pay tribute to. In fact, the title of these films has never felt more apt.

8. Paranormal Activity: The Ghost Dimension (2015)

Consider the original Paranormal Activity movie. This film revolved around a frantic search for any trace of the supernatural. A couple decided to record themselves while they slept, with their footage displaying some eerie events, but it’s only after it’s too late that truly unusual phenomena appear on camera. In contrast, within the initial 20 minutes of The Ghost Dimension, our protagonists have gathered enough evidence of ghosts, demons, and otherworldly dimensions to potentially transform life as we know it. However, instead of using this irrefutable proof to their advantage, they continue filming, even as their lives descend into chaos…and literal damnation. Fans of Paranormal Activity who felt deceived by this disappointing follow-up could certainly sympathize.

7. Independence Day: Resurgence (2016)

The initial “Independence Day” may not have been a cinematic masterpiece, but it did boast some impressive performances and groundbreaking special effects for its time. It also showed the brutal reality of death, depicting characters’ final moments as they were engulfed in flames or buried under debris. Contrastingly, “Resurgence” destroys much of society, yet most of this destruction happens off-screen. The colossal digital devastation leaves little room for human connection; the loss of half the world feels insignificant and unimpactful. This is exacerbated by the absence of Will Smith, who opted out of “Resurgence”, and the underwhelming replacements in terms of charisma. To add insult to injury, the ending of “Resurgence” hints at another sequel, which I hope never sees a resurgence.

6. Fast X (2023)

Initially, the Fast & Furious series was a hit franchise that appreciated viewers who followed closely. Now, it seems to frustrate them instead. Engaging with the characters can leave you puzzled, questioning why certain characters in Fast X behave so differently compared to their portrayals in earlier movies (Is Jakob Toretto suffering from amnesia? Has John Cena undergone a drastic personality change? What transpired between F9 and Fast X that transformed him from a brooding, ruthless killer to a jovial, witty uncle?!). Trying to decipher the storyline only adds to the confusion as you struggle to make sense of this bland yet confusing revenge narrative, with its sluggish pacing. However, the title Fast X could arguably function as its own review, serving as a metaphor for the film’s pace and quality.

5. Jurassic World Dominion (2022)

As a devoted fan, I eagerly anticipated the concluding chapter of Jurassic World, longing for a reunion with the characters from the original Jurassic Park and a gripping narrative that delved into the chaos of a contemporary world overrun by dinosaurs. Unfortunately, co-writer and director Colin Trevorrow delivered on the first but fell short on the second. Rather than developing a story that expanded upon the cliffhanger ending of Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom, he pieced together two distinct casts for a preposterous tale involving genetically modified locusts ravaging the world’s food sources. By the time all the human characters gather at a strategically placed dinosaur sanctuary for a third-act reiteration of the familiar Jurassic formula, I found myself wishing for my own demise.

4. Justice League (2017)

The Justice League film was intended to be the crowning finale of a connected narrative. Unfortunately, it transformed into an overly hurried ending for a storyline that lacked clarity, effectively shattering what had previously been a promising cinematic universe. This disappointing outcome is evident in the final product, as it seems neither Zack Snyder nor Joss Whedon would have recognized it as their work. The post-production was haphazard, the mood inconsistent, and the primary antagonist, a faceless CGI villain with no depth or motivation, fell flat. (It’s hard to believe his objective is world domination, but indeed it is!) Although Snyder’s original cut is available on Max, the initial release of Justice League will forever be remembered as one of the weakest DC sequels in history.

3. Hot Tub Time Machine 2 (2015)

In the first “Hot Tub Time Machine” movie, it might not resemble Charles Dickens’ works, but it skillfully intertwined a self-improvement narrative amidst the raucous antics of a group of friends grappling with their individual midlife crises. With the emotional issues of the characters resolved in the first film, the sequel primarily focused on splashing around as much bodily fluid and hot tub water as possible, as three out of the four original stars find themselves unintentionally transported into the future. The fourth “Hot Tub” star, John Cusack, did not reappear in the sequel beyond a perplexing cameo that was eventually removed from the final cut; he was replaced by Adam Scott as his character’s son. The creators of “Hot Tub Time Machine” were fortunate to pull off that concept once; such a bolt of humor seldom strikes twice, even with a time-traveling hot tub.

2. Meg 2: The Trench (2023)

In a different take, let me clarify: The original “Meg” wasn’t as terrifying as “Jaws,” but it certainly wasn’t “Jaws: The Revenge.” Back in 2018, I gave that movie a thumbs-up. However, this dull sequel drags on for an eternity without even a hint of the Meg (short for megalodon, a giant prehistoric shark) as our heroes delve into an illicit underwater mining operation. The film clocks in over 90 minutes before the shark-slashing action starts, and by then, I was so bored that I couldn’t even appreciate it.

1. Space Jam: A New Legacy (2021)

As a passionate cinephile, I must confess that “Space Jam: A New Legacy” fell flat for me. Warner Bros. portrayed itself as a heartless conglomerate of IP, managed by an antagonistic algorithm, which was a brilliant self-deprecating move, but the movie itself lacked the charm and humor, making the original “Space Jam” feel like a masterpiece in comparison, such as “2001: A Space Odyssey.” LeBron James isn’t a terrible actor, and he wasn’t any worse than Michael Jordan was in the original film. However, almost everything else about “A New Legacy” was a disappointment from start to finish. It seemed like they didn’t grasp the essence of the Looney Tunes, especially Bugs Bunny, who became a whiny and melancholic character. I would strongly recommend watching some of the latest “Looney Tunes Cartoons.” A random short from these series will provide you with at least five times as many laughs as this two-hour movie. Moreover, the animation quality in the cartoons is superior.

2025-05-30 17:59