Sometimes movie sequels expand on an original story and sometimes they’re a bonus we didn’t ask for. But then there are times when the filmmakers really should’ve just rolled the credits and walked away.
This gallery rounds up follow-ups that killed the vibe of their originals; sequels that had fans wondering why they even bothered. From disappointing franchises to wild tonal shifts, these films are proof that lighting doesn’t often strike twice.
At least we’ll always have the originals.
1
Caddyshack II (1988)
There was this raunchy charm in the original that was lacking in this sanitized version.
2
Zoolander 2 (2016)
The original was legendary and mocked the fashion world. The sequel tried to be but with tired jokes and a messy plot.
3
A Good Day to Die Hard (2013)
You could tell Bruce Willis was bored, the action wasn't great and the point was lost in generic explosions.
4
Weekend at Bernie’s II (1993)
The joke was already dead and so was the fun.
5
The Matrix Revolutions (2003)
Big ideas with little execution. Too many heavy-handed visuals and unsatisfying answers.
6
Terminator Genisys (2015)
No one was able to save this. A confusing reboot that tangled the timeline beyond repair.
7
Speed 2: Cruise Control (1997)
The tension and the thrills, and Keanu Reeves, jumped ship.
8
Jaws: The Revenge (1987)
This time, it's personal? The shark following the family across the ocean simply had no logic. A sad end to a legendary franchise.
9
Book of Shadows: Blair Witch 2 (2000)
Found footage was long gone. More like a bad student film trying to be creepy.
10
Alien: Resurrection (1997)
The weird cloning subplot and bizarre newborn alien pushed the franchise into parody territory.
11
Dumb and Dumber To (2014)
It was fun at first, but two decades later this just ended up being TOO dumb.
12
Exorcist II (1977)
It was tough to top the original already, but the incoherent mysticism and sci-fi bits confused everyone.
13
Grease 2 (1982)
Songs just weren't as memorable and the chemistry was not there. We needed that Sandy and Danny charm.
14
Independence Day: Resurgence (2016)
This sequel just tried to be bigger than ever and ended up feeling empty.
15
Blues Brothers 2000 (1998)
John Belushi was gone and so was the soul of the film.
16
Batman & Robin (1997)
A campy disaster that nearly killed the Dark Knight for good.
17
Basic Instinct 2 (2006)
A decade too late and with no bite. This lifeless thriller felt like a shadow of the original.
18
American Psycho 2 (2002)
No real connection to the original, just the name. It went from a psychological horror to a slasher comedy. Jarring.
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