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Every year, cinephiles are treated to several anticipated sequels and 2024 was no different. The beauty of sequels is that the audience is already well-acquainted with the characters which means that they are more invested in their lives. After all, it is a treat to watch a favorite character embark on a new journey or adventure with new experiences and opportunities that enable them to mature over time.
In 2024, over 20 sequels were released but many couldn't hit it big at the box office. That being said, this is hardly surprising as the audience tends to have set expectations when it comes to sequels. This is why filmmakers have to go above and beyond to create storylines that do justice to the original characters and offer something new at the same time.
However, there are some 2024 sequels, mentioned on this list, that were received warmly by fans, old and new.
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Disclaimer: This list contains information from various sources. This list is not ranked in any particular order.
Inside Out 2, Gladiator II and three other sequels released in 2024 that made headlines for the right reasons
1) Inside Out 2 (June 14, 2024)
Kelsey Mann's feature directorial debut, this movie is the direct sequel to Inside Out (2015). Like the first movie, Inside Out 2 also provides insight into the many emotions inside Riley, the young protagonist voiced by Kensington Tallman. At 13, Riley is in her adolescent phase which leads to new emotions, but it gets troublesome when the new emotions try to take over Riley's mind.
One of the biggest reasons behind Inside Out 2's success is the excellent voice acting which is hardly surprising given the impressive cast list that includes Amy Poehler, Maya Hawke, Tony Hale, Ayo Edebiri, and more. The movie tackles a lot of challenges that most teens face such as insecurity, peer pressure, identity crisis, and the like.
The narrative is simple and yet it carries a lot of powerful messages about love, understanding and acceptance. This is the kind of movie that the entire family can watch and enjoy together.
Where to watch: Inside Out 2 can be streamed on Disney+. It is also available for rent on Apple TV+ and Prime Video.
2) MaXXXine (July 5, 2024)
A direct sequel to X (2022), this movie by Ti West is centered around Mia Goth's character, Maxine Minx. It is set in 1985 in Los Angeles around the time of the Night Stalker murders. As Maxine tries to advance her acting career, she is unaware that she is being targeted by a mysterious killer.
Among the recent horror movies that have become popular among fans, the X film series has certainly received plenty of positive feedback for its striking storytelling style. In this movie, West brings old Hollywood to the screen with great accuracy which will surely make fans of the period nostalgic.
Goth shines in this movie, very much like the other installments. She brings depth and charisma to her character, making it impossible to look away.
Where to watch: MaXXXine is available for streaming on Max and Prime Video.
3) Deadpool & Wolverine (July 25, 2024)
Given Deadpool's popularity all over the world, fans were eagerly waiting for this movie and it held up to every single expectation. In this Shawn Levy movie, Wade Wilson (Ryan Reynolds) finds out that the Time Variance Authority is planning to destroy his universe. He then finds a begrudging Wolverine (Hugh Jackman) from another universe to help him stop them.
Deadpool movies are always fun to watch because Reynolds lays it all out on the table. The character's naturally sarcastic personality also lends itself to humorous situations. This movie was particularly enjoyable as Deadpool's quirkiness constantly clashed with Wolverine's indifferent attitude.
Apart from the humor, Deadpool & Wolverine also features cleverly choreographed fight scenes and memorable new characters that the audience will remember for a long time to come.
Where to watch: Deadpool & Wolverine can be viewed on Disney+. It is also available for rent on Apple TV+ and Prime Video.
4) Gladiator II (November 15, 2024)
Ridley Scott's Gladiator (2000) made a big impact on cinephiles because of its engaging story and grandiose production. Therefore, when this sequel was announced, fans were eager to return to Maximus' world. In this movie, the narrative is focused on the son of Maximus, Lucius Verus Aurelius aka Hanno, portrayed by Paul Mescal.
Lucius was sent away from Rome by Connie Nielsen's Lucilla at a young age after the death of his father to keep him safe. But years later, he is captured by the Roman army and sold into slavery. Like his father, he also eventually becomes a gladiator.
Scott brings back the larger-than-life grandeur in this sequel which is sure to appeal to fans of the first installment. The immersive narrative enables the audience to connect to the characters on an emotional level. All the actors play their roles to the T but the real star has to be Denzel Washington whose stage presence elevates the viewing experience.
Where to watch: Gladiator II can be streamed on Apple TV+ and it is also available on Prime Video for rent.
5) Sonic the Hedgehog 3 (December 20, 2024)
Usually, sequels can feel monotonous if the series runs for more than two installments but that doesn't seem like the case for Sonic the Hedgehog 3. Directed by Jeff Fowler, this sequel sees Sonic, Tails, and Knuckles go up against a new enemy, Shadow the Hedgehog who joins forces with mad scientists Ivo and Gerald Robotnik.
Like its predecessors, Sonic the Hedgehog 3 boasts an eclectic cast that includes the likes of Jim Carrey, Ben Schwartz, Colleen O'Shaughnessey, Natasha Rothwell, and more.
The narrative thrives on well-developed characters who are relatable on multiple levels. Jim Carrey brings his best as usual. Even though he plays two characters, he makes sure to make them distinctively different so as to add to the storytelling. Funny and action-packed, Sonic the Hedgehog 3 is a well-executed sequel that keeps fans entertained from start to finish.
Where to watch: As per reports Sonic the Hedgehog 3 will likely be available for streaming on Paramount+ by mid-February 2025.
Cinephiles who enjoy watching sequels should make a point to add these engaging 2024 titles to their must-watch list.
