We’re currently in a legacy sequel and remake-focused era of horror film history and, believe it or not, sometimes it’s not the original film that should be viewed as the blueprint on how to successfully reinvigorate an IP. It’s rare but, every now and then, it’s actually a sequel that stands as the apex of a franchise, be it a member of the horror genre or otherwise. Sometimes it’s because the sequel greatly expands the lore that was kicked off in the first film and, in other cases, it’s simply because the sequel does what the original did, but better.
Videos by ComicBook.com
What follows are four major horror IP installments that beat (or most would agree at least matched) the original at its own game. From Chucky to Jason, these franchises didn’t peak the first time out the gate.
1) Child’s Play 2
The best moment in the Child’s Play franchise happens in the original film, when Karen Barclay realizes her son has not, in fact, been lying about his doll’s sentience. But after that moment, the audience knows that Chucky is alive just as well as Karen and Barclay do. The sadistic cat is out of the bag.
So, what Child’s Play 2 had to do was flesh out Chucky a bit. He could never be as scary as he was the first time, so the call was made to up the kill count and up just how much fun Brad Dourif could have in the role. It works very well, as the first sequel is the breeziest and most fun installment of the franchise. Chucky was already pretty famous after the first film, but it was in the second where he became an icon in line with Freddy Krueger. Even if it just came down to the finale in the Good Guy doll factory, it would be Child’s Play 2 for the win.
Rent Child’s Play 2 on Amazon Video.
2) A Nightmare on Elm Street 3: Dream Warriors
One of the best horror sequels ever made, A Nightmare on Elm Street 3: Dream Warriors is one of those ultra rare mainline slashers that is as beloved as its IP’s debut. This was where Freddy became the most iconic villain in horror movie history, to the point he was undoubtedly the star of the show.
What’s great about Dream Warriors is it allows Freddy to come into his own, but his quippy nature had yet to jump the shark. He’s still at least somewhat scary which, when paired with fantastic visual effects, pounds of creativity in each and every scene, and a handful of performances that stand far above the caliber seen in the typical slasher film, makes for a film that is at least arguably superior in construction than Craven’s 1984 masterpiece.
Rent A Nightmare on Elm Street 3: Dream Warriors on Amazon Video.
3) Friday the 13th: The Final Chapter
Friday the 13th: The Final Chapter is often equated to the notion of John Hughes making a Jason Voorhees movie, and that’s not far off. When most people think of a Friday the 13th movie they saw in the past and liked (even if they aren’t particularly fans of the franchise), this is almost certainly the one that springs to mind.
This is arguably the most iconic entry of the franchise, to the point it’s even proving to be an influence on the franchise as it enters its newest chapter. With sublime pacing, slightly upped production values, and perhaps the best and most relatable group of teens of the franchise, The Final Chapter is many fans’ favorite entry for good reason.
Rent Friday the 13th: The Final Chapter on Amazon Video.
4) Evil Dead II
One of the 1980s’ very best horror films, Evil Dead II is the best example out there of how horror and comedy can merge and produce a perfect result. It takes everything that worked well in the more straightforward first installment and cranks up the absurdity in a way that feels like an exploration of insanity without ever becoming overwhelming or played out.
Bruce Campbell is really allowed to chew the scenery here, and his joy is infectious. We still get the creepy ambiance of the original film but we also get quite a few genuine laughs, the type where we have to ask ourselves just why we’re laughing at something so absurd and, quite often, gooey.
Stream Evil Dead II on Prime Video.
Most Viewed
-
Image Courtesy of Ufotable -
Courtesy of Bones Film
