Movies That Deserve a Sequel: Streaming Picks

Several streaming movies, from cult sci-fi to underrated action thrillers, end with unresolved threads or open endings that practically beg for a sequel. This article highlights a handful of such films currently available on major streaming platforms, explaining why each one deserves a follow-up and what a sequel could explore.

Why Some Movies Cry Out for a Sequel

Not every movie needs a sequel, but certain films leave the door wide open. A sequel makes sense when the story’s central conflict isn’t fully resolved, the world has more unexplored corners, or the ending introduces a new status quo that begs to be examined. Streaming platforms have become a haven for such films because they can gauge audience interest through viewing data, and a strong cult following can push a sequel into production even if the theatrical run was modest. For example, Project Power (2020) ends with the power-pill formula still at large, and The Old Guard (2020) reveals that another immortal has been hiding for centuries. These are narrative hooks, not just cliffhangers—they suggest a larger story that a sequel could tell.

Sci-Fi Movies That Set Up a Sequel

Science fiction is a genre where sequels can expand a universe, and streaming has revived several sci-fi properties. Outside the Wire (2021) on Netflix ends with a major revelation about the android protagonist’s true mission, leaving the fate of humanity in a precarious balance. A sequel could explore the consequences of that choice. Similarly, Love and Monsters (2020) on Prime Video concludes with the protagonist finding his place in a monster-filled world, but the world itself remains full of unexplored territories and other survivor colonies. Fans have called for a sequel to see how the “monster hunting” community evolves. These films didn’t get sequels because of the pandemic’s impact on theatrical releases, but their streaming success suggests a built-in audience.

Action and Thriller Films with Unfinished Business

Action movies often leave a thread for a sequel, but a few stand out for how deliberately they set up a continuation. The Mother (2023) on Netflix ends with the titular character walking away, but the criminal organization she fought is only weakened, not destroyed. A sequel could follow her as she faces the remnants of that organization, or as she takes on a new threat that forces her back into the life she tried to leave. Another example is Kate (2021), which ends with the assassin dying from poison, but the final scene implies that her young protégé is now following in her footsteps. A sequel could follow that new character, creating a passing-of-the-torch narrative that many action franchises use to stay fresh.

Horror and Thriller Sequels That Almost Happened

Horror movies often end with a final scare or a twist that sets up a sequel, and streaming has provided a second chance for several. No One Gets Out Alive (2021) on Netflix ends with the protagonist escaping the house, but the supernatural entity’s influence is shown to be spreading. A sequel could explore the wider impact of that entity on the city. Similarly, His House (2020) ends with the couple making peace with their past, but the haunting is shown to be a larger phenomenon affecting other refugees. A sequel could follow a new family dealing with the same supernatural force, turning it into an anthology-style horror series. These films are acclaimed but lack sequels, despite clear narrative openings.

Comedy Sequels That Fans Want

Comedies rarely get sequels unless they’re massive hits, but streaming has allowed some comedies to build a cult following that justifies a follow-up. Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga (2020) on Netflix ends with the duo achieving their dream, but the film’s world of eccentric performers is ripe for more stories. A sequel could follow them as they become mentors to a new act, or as they try to recapture their glory days. Another example is The Wrong Missy (2020), which ends with the couple together, but the film’s premise of mistaken identity could easily be reversed for a sequel. While not critical darlings, these films have loyal audiences who would likely stream a sequel immediately.

How to Choose Which Sequels to Watch For

If you’re looking for movies that deserve a sequel, check for these signs:

• An unresolved plot thread – a character’s fate is left ambiguous, or a villain escapes.
• A world with more to explore – the setting has rules or locations that were only hinted at.
• A strong fan following – if a film has a dedicated online community, a sequel is more likely.
• An ending that changes the status quo – the protagonist’s life is completely different at the end, and you want to see how they adapt.

Streaming platforms often announce sequels based on viewership numbers, so if you want a sequel to a specific film, watch it repeatedly and recommend it to friends. That’s the most direct way to influence the decision.

Common Problems with Sequel Development

Even when a movie deserves a sequel, several obstacles can prevent it from happening. The most common is scheduling—actors and directors move on to other projects, and reassembling the original cast becomes difficult. Another issue is creative direction: the studio may want a sequel that expands the universe, while the original creators might prefer a more intimate story. Additionally, streaming platforms sometimes cancel sequel plans if the original film’s viewership doesn’t meet internal projections, which are often based on subscriber growth rather than pure viewership. Finally, the pandemic disrupted many productions, and some sequels that were in development were quietly shelved. These are practical realities that fans may not see.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will there ever be a sequel to The Old Guard?
Yes, a sequel is in development. Netflix confirmed a sequel in 2020, but production has been slow due to scheduling and creative changes. As of 2024, it hasn’t been released, but it’s still officially planned.

Why do some streaming movies get sequels while others don’t?
Streaming platforms use a combination of viewership data, completion rates, and cultural buzz to decide. A film that is watched by many but finished by few may not get a sequel. Also, the cost of production and the availability of the cast play a big role.

Are there any streaming movies that got sequels after fan campaigns?
Yes, The Kissing Booth and To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before both got multiple sequels due to high viewership and fan demand. However, most fan campaigns don’t succeed unless the platform sees a clear financial benefit.

Do I need to watch the original before a sequel?
Generally, yes. Sequels assume you know the original’s plot and characters. However, some sequels are designed as stand-alone stories, but that’s rare. It’s best to watch the original first to understand the context.

Can a sequel be better than the original?
Yes, but it’s uncommon. Sequels often have bigger budgets and more established fan bases, but they can also lose the charm of the original. Examples like Mad Max: Fury Road (a sequel/reboot) show that it’s possible, but it requires a clear creative vision.

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