The great sequels

MANILA, Philippines - A few years ago, I wrote about greatest movie sequels that are all-time favorites. While these movies are watched by viewers over and over again, there are always new ones that come around. So as an addition to this ever-growing list of greatest movie sequels, here is the new set of films to include as favorites (some new and some not so new ones):

Rush Hour (two sequels). Who wouldn’t miss the hilarious partnership of Carter and Lee? I bet viewers are anticipating for a third sequel or maybe a prequel. Ever since after the last one in 2007, many fans wonder if these two guys will ever come back on the big screen. Where will they be this time? There is a hearsay that it might be set in Moscow.

Taken (one sequel). First, his daughter was kidnapped and he saved her; second, he and his wife were kidnapped and the daughter saved them (with the help of dad, of course). The action just keep on getting more and more intense as the sequel continues. This movie and its sequel were truly a hit. A talk of another sequel is said to be on the works.

Transformers (two sequels). Which side are you: Autobots or decepticons? The battle begins and continues in the film series that features transforming vehicles. To balance the intense action, film creators put a bit of love story and humor in it. After its latest sequel, viewers are sure ready for another Transformers — coming soon.

Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone (seven sequels). Every sequel of this movie was undoubtedly a hit. Fans just can’t seem to have enough of witchcraft and wizardry especially if it has Harry and his friends in it. Truly, this film and its sequels deserve to be in the list of greatest sequels.

Hang Over (two sequels). It seems like these guys never learn their lesson. Wherever they go, trouble seems to be following them or is it the other way around? This year, they are not going anywhere far; will they get to their destination and be out of it trouble free? A lot of viewers can’t help to find out.

Twilight Saga (four sequels). The saga truly gave a new impression to vampire movies. Now, vampires are not anymore thought of as scary beings but actually romantic and loving ones. It makes one wonder if the saga should be categorized as for Halloween or for Valentine’s Day.

The Fast and the Furious (five sequels). Cool cars with powered machines, street racing, daring exhibitions and topping it with beautiful girls, this is definitely the dream film of almost every guy. The Fast and the Furious film series are truly for action-packed addicts. Another upcoming sequel is on the way.

Spiderman (two sequels). From comics to the big screen, these Spiderman series were undeniably a success. All three films were loved by viewers especially fans of Spiderman. There were plans to add up another film to the series but it was reportedly canceled. However, just last year another producer made a Spiderman film. Will viewers still prefer the earlier ones or the current one?

Bourne Identity (three sequels). The movie and its sequels (except for the last one) are about CIA assassin, Jason Bourne, who suffers from memory loss. The latest sequel though is about another agent who’s struggling to find the drugs he is dependent on. The Bourne film series is known for having endings that are a bit confusing. So if you are the type of viewer who likes to analyze then this one is for you.

Shrek (three sequels). The movie and its sequels follow the story of Shrek, a green creature, called an “Ogre” that lives in the swamp. His life changes when fairy tale creatures start coming over his place. It is very cute and funny to see classic fairy tale characters living their lives outside the fairy tale world.

Iron Man (two sequels). It was just supposed to be a suit he made to help him (Tony Stark a.k.a Iron Man) escape from captivity but it turns out to be a suit he will need to save the world from bad guys. Stark is a genius and a billionaire in one, plus, a handsome guy, too — what a total hero. After the second sequel, Iron Man still has his charm. Will there be a third one?

Toy Story (two sequels). When Toy Story was first released in 1995, people were fascinated about the idea of toys being alive. So it was an instant hit. It became even more popular when viewers found out that the storyline is actually not just for kids. That is why it was an instant hit when its sequels were shown.

X-Men (two prequels, two sequels). As everybody knows, the film, together with its sequels and prequels, is about the ever-unresolved conflict among the mutants. Who are the poor victims? The pitiful confused humans — but hey it’s just in the movies. A lot of viewers enjoy it, anyway. More sequels are said to be coming soon.

The Lord of the Rings: Fellowship of the Ring (one prequel, two sequels). Join Frodo and the others as they embark on an ever-undying quest for the ring. This film, including its sequels and prequel, were such a success all over the world. The settings of the film are truly a beauty. There is said to be two more prequels coming. Would it get the same warm reception as the earlier ones?

Saw (six sequels). If you think that this is another gory movie then think again. Saw and its sequels are not all about just gore. It has a storyline that gets interesting as you go along watching it. One thing that’s amazing about this film is that it may not seem to be making sense in the beginning but it clearly does after it explains it at the end of the film — no confusion.