JAWS 2 and the greatest first sequels of all time
“You’re gonna need a bigger pinball!”
Hello, Islanders!
If you’ve read my book, “Jaws 2: The Making of the Hollywood Sequel” (and why haven’t you?) you may not be surprised to find that, forty-five years after the film was released, the “sequelization” of Hollywood continues. In fact, checking the most recent list of the Top 10 Highest Grossing Films in History, six are sequels, two are the origin films that spawned those sequels, while one (The Lion King) had a straight to video sequel. I know I’m being foolish when I say never, but I’m pretty sure there will never be a sequel to the final film, Titanic, as we all saw the ship sink! For the curious, our favorite film – JAWS – currently sits at #258, just (98) spots behind Kung Fu Panda. KUNG FU FRICKIN PANDA!!
Many film series have spun off multiple sequels (Harry Potter, Fast and Furious), some better then others. Like, in my opinion, Rocky III is much better then Rocky II. Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade is a million times better then Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom. So, here are five FIRST sequels – the ones that either compared favorably, or even surpassed, the original film. Starting with:
JAWS 2 (1978)
With much love and respect to my friend Joe Alves, JAWS 2 is the best sequel in the series, mostly because it contains familiar characters we already care about in situations we can all identify with. And, even though he didn’t want to be there, Roy Scheider gives a great performance. Also, it was the first sequel to use the numeral “2.”
The Godfather Part II (1974)
The Godfather is considered, and rightly so, one of the greatest films ever made. So, a sequel was very risky. However, there was plenty of Vito Corleone’s backstory in the original novel that director/co-writer Francis Ford Coppola and Mario Puzo was able to mold those stories with a plotline following Michael into a film that many film fans consider and even better film then the original. Surprisingly, the film tested poorly when first shown to audiences but, after some clever editing – shortening the length of time spent in different time periods - it went on to become the first sequel to win the Best Picture Academy Award.
Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan (1982)
Robert Wise was a great director, but whoever tapped him to bring the “Star Trek” television series to the big screen was obviously looking for a name instead of a director who understood the material. To me, Star Trek: The Motion Picture drags on and on and on and on…..you get the picture. Thankfully the powers that be at Paramount tapped the brilliant Nicholas Meyer to write and direct the follow-up. Returning to the “Trek” that fans loved, and continuing a story begun in the “Space Seed” episode, Meyer achieved the rare feat of adding genuine emotion to a science fiction film.
The Empire Strikes Back (1981)
Despite five sequels, three prequels and numerous spin-off films, no film represents the greatness of the Star Wars series like this one. Yoda. Boba Fett. Lando. Han in carbonite. Luke’s daddy issues. This film contains everything that made the first film popular and more. I credit this to screenwriters Leigh Brackett and Lawrence Kasdan. Brackett was a well known and respected science fiction writer while Kasdan would go on to write and direct some great films in the 1980s, including The Big Chill, Body Heat and Silverado. Brackett passed away only 10-months after Star Wars premiered so the film is presumably the last project she worked on.
Aliens (1986)
How do you top a true horror masterpiece directed by the brilliant Ridley Scott? You don’t, but James Cameron came awfully close. Nothing draws an audience in like putting a child in danger and writer/director Cameron (there’s a reason he has three films on the Top 10 list) uses that scenario to give us an ass-kicking Ellen Ripley doing battle against a colony of Xenomorphs. Throw in some brilliant casting and a rare – for a horror film – Best Actress Oscar nomination for Sigourney Weaver, and you have a film that continues to entertain audiences today.
Ross’ two cents…
Absolutely agree with Michael’s choices here. ALIENS is in my top three movies of all time! There a few first sequels I’d like to add…
Dawn Of The Dead (1978)
"Dawn of the Dead" (1978) surpasses its predecessor "Night of the Living Dead" (1968) in several aspects, making it a superior film in the zombie genre. Firstly, "Dawn of the Dead" elevates the scope and scale of the narrative by introducing a more expansive setting—a shopping mall—allowing for deeper exploration of societal themes such as consumerism and human nature under duress.
Director George A. Romero's improved technical expertise is evident in "Dawn of the Dead," with better production values, makeup effects, and cinematography, enhancing the visual impact and immersive experience for viewers. The film's soundtrack by Goblin adds a haunting and atmospheric dimension, further heightening tension and suspense.
Moreover, "Dawn of the Dead" features more complex character development, offering nuanced portrayals of survivors grappling with moral dilemmas and personal conflicts in the face of the apocalypse. The inclusion of humor and satire provides moments of relief amidst the horror, contributing to a more engaging and multifaceted narrative.
Overall, "Dawn of the Dead" represents a significant evolution in the zombie genre, offering a compelling blend of social commentary, visceral thrills, and memorable characters that cement its status as a classic film.
Evil Dead 2 (1987)
"Evil Dead 2" (1987) surpasses its predecessor "Evil Dead" (1981) in several key aspects, making it a superior film in the horror genre. Firstly, "Evil Dead 2" embraces a more refined and self-aware approach, blending horror and comedy seamlessly to create a unique and memorable experience. Director Sam Raimi's mastery of tone allows for moments of genuine terror to coexist with dark humor, resulting in a film that keeps audiences engaged and entertained throughout.
Technically, "Evil Dead 2" showcases significant advancements in special effects and cinematography, providing more polished visuals and innovative practical effects that enhance the overall impact of the film. The creative use of camera techniques, such as Raimi's trademark "shaky cam" and inventive tracking shots, adds to the film's kinetic energy and sense of urgency.
Furthermore, "Evil Dead 2" benefits from a more charismatic and dynamic performance by Bruce Campbell as protagonist Ash Williams. Campbell's iconic portrayal elevates the character to legendary status, imbuing the film with a sense of charisma and personality that is unmatched in the original.
Overall, "Evil Dead 2" is a superior film due to its innovative blend of horror and comedy, technical prowess, and unforgettable performances, cementing its status as a cult classic in the genre.
The Dark Knight (2008)
"The Dark Knight" surpasses "Batman Begins" due to its deeper exploration of complex themes, particularly the nature of heroism and the struggle between order and chaos. Christopher Nolan's masterful direction and Heath Ledger's iconic portrayal of the Joker elevate the film to legendary status. Ledger's performance alone adds a layer of depth and unpredictability that propels "The Dark Knight" to greatness. Additionally, the film's intricate plot, intense action sequences, and moral dilemmas keep audiences engaged from start to finish. While "Batman Begins" lays the groundwork for Nolan's Batman trilogy, "The Dark Knight" expands upon it, pushing boundaries and delivering a cinematic experience that transcends the superhero genre.
Dune Part 2 (2024)
"Dune Part 2" surpasses its predecessor by delving deeper into the intricate universe created by Frank Herbert, offering richer character development, and expanding on the themes introduced in the first film. With established world-building and character arcs, the sequel has more room to explore complex political dynamics and philosophical concepts. Additionally, with the groundwork laid in the first installment, "Dune Part 2" can focus more on the action and conflict, providing audiences with a more immersive and satisfying cinematic experience. Overall, the sequel builds upon the strengths of the original while pushing the boundaries of storytelling and visual spectacle.
Did we miss one of your favorites? Let us know in the comments below.
Words by Michael A Smith. Michael is co-author of Jaws 2: The Making Of The Hollywood Sequel. You can order the book by contacting Michael at OsFanMike@aol.com.
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