Top 10 Movie Sequels of the Last Decade You Must Watch Now

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For numerous years, some of the most profitable and critically acclaimed movies, ranging from “Jaws” and “Jurassic Park” to “Die Hard” and “Back to the Future”, have dominated Hollywood. As these films have brought in record-breaking box office revenues, studios have become increasingly dependent on them, leading to an increase in spin-offs and franchises. The rise of superhero movies and the revival of classic film series over the past decade has resulted in a higher number of sequels than ever before.

As a dedicated fan, I must admit that not all sequels manage to captivate audiences, but when they do, they hit the sweet spot by wrapping up lingering plot threads and providing satisfying answers to long-standing questions about our cherished characters. Over the past few years, Hollywood has been generous in delivering engaging follow-ups to our favorite franchises, encompassing everything from heartwarming family movies to pulse-pounding horror films. And let me tell you, some of these sequels have proven beyond doubt that they can rank among the most entertaining films out there!

Directed By Fede Alvarez

Since 1979, Alien has been renowned as one of Hollywood’s premier providers of cosmic horror and sci-fi action, weaving tales about characters like Ellen Ripley as they grapple with the fearsome xenomorph creatures. In 2024, director Fede Alvarez ventured beyond the prequels into a film that takes place between the original from ’79 and James Cameron’s Aliens. Titled Alien Romulus, this movie follows Rain, our new protagonist, and her companions as they explore an abandoned space station seeking supplies for their voyage to a secure planet. However, they unwittingly stumble upon a xenomorph nest.

In a fresh reinterpretation, the series Alien: Resurrection recaptures the suffocating dread that marked the original as a classic, while delving deeper into the grim underbelly of the franchise via the Weyland-Yutani Corporation. Fans have been eagerly awaiting a new female protagonist since Ripley’s tale concluded, and in this installment, they find her in the formidable character of Rain. The series demonstrates a keen grasp of the franchise with compelling characters like David Jonsson’s Andy and a chilling new alien creature, as showcased in Alvarez.

Directed By Chad Stahelski

Back in 2014, I stumbled upon a film that redefined the action genre for me – John Wick. With Keanu Reeves as this lethal assassin, it was an instant hit. In the first movie, he took down the Russian mob on behalf of his late dog, and in the sequel, he even crossed the line by killing someone on Continental grounds. This earned him a rather unwelcome status – persona non grata – in the underground assassin world.

Fast forward to the third installment, I found myself having no other choice but to reach out to my old organization for help. A quest that took me overseas began, all in the pursuit of finding some peace.

The third installment in the John Wick series truly shines due to its outstanding action sequences and global escapade, taking John on a journey to Morocco seeking mercy. Essentially, it’s an action-packed delight that caters specifically to fans of the genre, with Halle Berry’s involvement and the thrilling dog attack scene adding extra appeal, making it more impressive than its predecessors. Additionally, this film provides a clearer picture of the universe and mythology within the franchise.

Directed By Christopher McQuarrie

For more than two decades now, the Mission: Impossible series has solidified itself as a top-tier spy thriller action franchise alongside James Bond. In 2018, one of its most impressive films, Fallout, was released. This movie places Ethan Hunt in confrontation with what remains of the Syndicate, a ruthless group determined to instigate nuclear war. Joining forces with a formidable CIA operative, Hunt takes on the mission to locate the enigmatic leader of this faction and thwart global conflict.

In the world where fans frequently discuss which spy series, between James Bond and Mission: Impossible, is superior, Christopher McQuarrie’s spectacular sequel, “Mission: Impossible – Fallout,” ought to have put an end to that debate.

Directed By Joseph Kosinski

33 years ago, Tony Scott’s movie Top Gun set Hollywood ablaze with its thrilling portrayal of naval aviation, seen through the eyes of Tom Cruise as Pete “Maverick” Mitchell. And now, in 2022, Cruise is back in the cockpit for Top Gun: Maverick. This time around, we find our hero, a veteran test pilot, being called upon to mentor a new group of hotshot fighter pilots, including Goose’s son, Rooster. As we gear up for a daring mission to neutralize an adversary’s nuclear site, Maverick takes the reins once more, ready to demonstrate the finesse and skill that have made him a legend among aviators.

Not only did the movie Top Gun Maverick surpass fan expectations, but it outshone the original in terms of quality, marking a significant leap for sequels in Hollywood. Praised by pilots as one of the most authentic aviation films ever made, the sequel didn’t disappoint with its incredible flight scenes. Additionally, the film excelled at the classic narrative trope of the old guard passing on wisdom to the new, which many consider the best portrayal since Clint Eastwood’s Heartbreak Ridge.

Directed By David Leitch

2016 marked Ryan Reynolds’ reprisal of the role of Marvel’s witty, fourth-wall-breaking antihero Deadpool. His portrayal in X-Men Origins: Wolverine had previously been met with disappointment, but his performance in this film was more accurate and well-received. Following his origin story in the first movie, he reappeared in a 2018 sequel that focused on Cable’s mission through time to eliminate young supervillain Firefist, who is fated to become a mass murderer in the future. Upon arrival, however, Cable finds himself compelled not only to fight but also to form an alliance with Deadpool, who holds faith in Firefist’s potential for redemption.

The movie “Deadpool 2” stands out as one of the most impressive comic book character adaptations yet, presenting the title character at his peak along with an outstanding portrayal of Cable and nods to fans through characters like Juggernaut. This film cleverly combines elements of the buddy cop genre within a superhero context, offering plenty of humor and satire on superheroes, a signature style of Wade Wilson. As entertaining as it is thrilling, “Deadpool 2” sets the bar high for Deadpool films, despite the fact that “Deadpool & Wolverine” also provided fans with an excellent introduction to the character.

Directed By Matt Reeves

Starting from 1968, the Planet of the Apes series has produced some of the finest science fiction dystopian films, with a fresh start given in 2011’s Rise of the Planet of the Apes. As the story unfolded, we witnessed the decline of human civilization and the rise of Apekind. The reboot series continued its journey in 2017’s War for the Planet of the Apes. In this installment, Caesar and his tribe are pursued by a ruthless colonel. After the tragic death of his son, Caesar, along with his closest allies, set out on a quest to locate and eliminate The Colonel.

Among all the outstanding entries in the franchise, War for the Planet of the Apes stands out as one of the best. It skillfully combines elements from films like True Grit, offering a tale of revenge, and showcases the raw emotion typical of war films. No other movie in this series has been able to match the poignant, heart-wrenching storyline presented in the 2017 film, which draws inspiration from classic war movies such as Apocalypse Now and Schindler’s List. Prior to this film, it was hard to imagine a Planet of the Apes movie could make viewers unwaveringly sympathize with the apes rather than humanity.

Directed By Paul King

The story in Paddington revolves around the title character, a talking bear, who leaves his peaceful jungle habitat in Peru for bustling London after the events of the first movie. In the sequel, Paddington finds himself in trouble when he’s falsely accused of a crime and ends up in prison. Eager to prove their friend’s innocence, the kind-hearted Brown family embarks on a mission to unravel the mystery and bring him back home.

Paddington 2 truly shines as one of the most delightful and heartwarming family films from the 21st century, offering a touching, emotionally resonant tale throughout. Its gentle melody and capacity to evoke feelings of affection and optimism make it vibrant and lively. With actors like Hugh Grant adding their charm, it becomes even more enchanting and humorous, garnering acclaim from both critics and viewers.

Directed By Denis Villeneuve

In Blade Runner 2049, viewers are plunged into a grim, futuristic Los Angeles of 2019, where the Tyrell Corporation manufactures replicants for forced labor. When these replicants revolt, they’re hunted down by special police officers called blade runners, whose job is to eliminate them. Thirty years after Rick Deckard chased Roy Batty, Blade Runner 2049 introduces K, a replicant blade runner, who starts questioning his own origins and suspects he could be the son of Rick Deckard and Rachael. Persistently pursued by the Tyrell Corporation and other blade runners, K embarks on a journey to Las Vegas’ desolate outskirts in search of Deckard.

In a fresh and captivating rendition, Blade Runner 2049 built upon the exceptional qualities of its predecessor, crafting a contemporary work of art that delves deeper into the moral quandaries surrounding replicants. Critically acclaimed as one of Ryan Gosling’s finest performances to date, this film expertly extended the original narrative while introducing novel elements. By incorporating K’s tale, the story maintains the same poignant layers of tragedy and complexity that characterized Deckard and Batty’s storyline.

Directed By Denis Villeneuve

Since its first publication in 1965, Frank Herbert’s “Dune” has been a significant pillar in science fiction literature. The narrative revolves around Paul Atreides’ quest for revenge and ascension as he rallies the indigenous Fremen people of Arrakis against the Emperor. A new film adaptation of this epic tale was released in 2021, which remarkably captured the essence and gravity of the original work unlike any previous adaptations. With its arid backdrop and intricate portrayal of a multi-planetary system, the two-part movie provided viewers with one of the most captivating experiences of the 21st century, and this immersion is even more pronounced in the second installment.

In the 2021 version of Dune, the foundation was laid for the saga, clarifying character intentions and paths. The sequel, however, accelerated the plot significantly. It masterfully portrayed Paul’s challenging journey as he is compelled to challenge for the throne, offering numerous emotional scenes and further expanding on the world-building introduced in the first film. By concluding another chapter, the movie not only pleased viewers but also sparked a hunger for more.

Directed By George Miller

1979 saw George Miller introduce a groundbreaking apocalyptic action thriller to moviegoers titled Mad Max. Set in Australia, on the verge of societal and economic ruin, it later transformed into the anarchic post-apocalyptic adventure we’re familiar with. After over two decades of yearning for more, fans received their wish when, in 2015, Tom Hardy portrayed Max Rockatansky in the sequel.

Mad Max: Fury Road might have outshone its predecessor, The Road Warrior, by a hair, showcasing Miller’s franchise at its best. Unique editing, breathtaking visuals, and impeccable pacing are just some of the reasons that make it so. Audiences were won over not only by the innovative character designs but also by the impressive portrayal of Immortan Joe as a formidable villain. Moreover, the expanded world-building significantly revitalized the universe.

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2025-04-28 03:38