In the age of the franchise film — where interconnected universes and multi-film sagas seem to dominate the box office — it should come as no surprise that studios continue to pump out sequels and prequels. Extending the narrative inherent to existing successes is as close to a surefire bet that you can get. Some sequels on this list are over 30 years in the making, while others are surfacing in quick succession. So, let’s go through the sequels and prequels joining your favorite franchises.
‘Dune: Part 2’ | March 1, 2024
Dune: Part 2 sees Paul Atreides (Timothée Chalamet) unite with Chani (Zendaya) and the Fremen (a sub-culture of humans descended from the Zensunni Wanderers who consider the deserted planted Arrakis home), as he seeks revenge against the conspirators who have destroyed his family. The second installment welcomes a-listers Florence Pugh and Christopher Walken and sees the return of Rebecca Ferguson. Denis Villeneuve directs with a script he co-wrote alongside Jon Spaihts and Frank Herbert.
‘Kung Fu Panda 4′ | March 8, 2024
When Po (Jack Black) is tapped to become the Spiritual Leader of the Valley of Peace, he must find and train a new Dragon Warrior to succeed him. Meanwhile, a wicked sorceress plans to re-summon the villains Po has previously banished to the spirit realm. While many former members of his clan will be amiss (or possess small roles), the sequel welcomes Awkwafina, Bryan Cranston, and Viola Davis as voice actors. The film, which follows the 2016 installment, is directed by Mike Mitchell and Stephanie Stine with a script from Jonathan Aibel and Glenn Berger.
‘Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire’ | March 29, 2024
Ghostbusters new and old join forces to protect their home (and prevent a global ice age) when an ancient artifact unleashes evil forces. The sequel sees the return of Paul Rudd, Carrie Coon, McKenna Grace, Dan Akroyd, Bill Murray, Finn Wolfhard, and Ernie Hudson. Kumail Nanjiani joined the talented ensemble. Gil Kenan directs with a script she co-wrote alongside Jason and Ivan Reitman.
‘Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga’ | May 24, 2024
Furiosa sees Anya Taylor-Joy star in the origin story of the titular renegade warrior (previously portrayed by acton baddie Charlize Theron) before her encounter and allyship with Mad Max. The prequel also stars Chris Hemsworth and Charlee Fraser. George Miller (who directed Fury Road) returns to direct with a script he penned alongside Brendan McCarthy and Nick Lathouris.
‘Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes’ | May 24, 2024
Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes begins several years following the late Cesar’s reign. In the film, a young Ape sets out on a journey that will come to define the future relationship between Apes and humans. The film stars Freya Allen, William H. Macy, Dichen Lachman, Kevin Durand, and Owen Teague. Wes Ball directs with a screenplay from Patrick Aison, Joe Friedman, Rick Jaffa, and Amanda Silver.
‘Inside Out 2’ | June 14, 2024
Say hello to some new emotions. Inside Out 2 follows Riley, who is now in her teenage years, as she comes to experience the likes of anxiety and envy. The voice cast sees the return of Amy Poehler, Phyllis Smith, Tony Hale, Lewis Black, and Liza Lapira, while welcoming Maya Hawke. Kelsey Mann directs with a script from Meg LeFauve.
‘A Quiet Place: Day One’ | June 28, 2024
While details concerning the plot are being largely kept under wraps, it goes without saying that this film will chronicle the early days of the alien invasion — before individuals knew how to combat the auditorily sensitive creatures. Michael Sarnoski John Krasinski, and Michael Sarnoski penned the script that Sarnoski will direct. The film stars Lupita Nyong’o, Denis O’Hare, Djimon Hounsou, and Alex Wolff.
‘Deadpool 3’ | July 26, 2024
Marvel isn’t one to release plot descriptions, but the movie sees the return of Hugh Jackman’s Wolverine, so we’ll all be there to witness the adamantium-filled mutant in all his glory. And, just maybe, this film will open the door to other X-Men and other Brotherhood members. Jennifer Garner will also reprise her role as Elektra from the ill-fated 2003 film Daredevil and the poorly-received but beloved 2005 Elektra spin-off. Shawn Levy directs with writing credits belonging to Wendy Molyneux, Lizzie Molyneux-Logelin, Rhett Reese, Ryan Reynolds, Zeb Wells (screenplay) and, Paul Wernick.
‘Beetlejuice 2’ | September 6, 2024
It’s been over 30 years since Michael Keaton blew us away as the manic, darkly humorous, innuendo-loving, and irreverent Beetlejuice. Now, he’s back. Lydia Deetz (Winona Ryder) is now a mom and Jenna Ortega of Wednesday fame portrays her daughter. The sequel brings Wilhelm Dafoe and Justin Theroux into the madhouse.
Tim Burton returns to direct the sequel. Alfred Gough, Seth Grahame-Smith, David Katzenberg, Michael McDowell, Miles Millar, and Larry Wilson possess writing credit (in either screenplay or character form).
‘Joker: Folie a Deux’ | October 4, 2024
The musical sequel to the Joaquin Phoenix-led Joker film welcomes Lady Gaga into the soiree. While the plot is being kept under wraps, we can’t wait to witness Gaga belt it out as Harley Quinn. Todd Phillips returns to direct with a screenplay he wrote alongside Scott Silver.
‘Gladiator 2’ | November 22, 2024
Gladiator 2 follows Lucius, the son of Maximus’s love interest Lucilla after Maximus’s death. Considering this film is coming out over 20 years after its predecessor, it may be a good idea to brush up on the first installment. Ridley Scott directs with a script by David Scarpa. The film stars Denzel Washington, Paul Mescal (Lucius), Connie Nielsen, and Pedro Pascal.
‘Mufasa: The Lion King’ | December 20, 20424
The live-action (or should we say CGI spectacle?) Mufasa: The Lion King explores the origins of Simba’s late father, as Simba (now the King of the Pride Lands) works to ensure his son follows in his footsteps. Aaron Pierre will step into James Earl Jones’ mighty large shoes and voice the brave and wise lion. Seth Rogen and Billy Eichner return to voice Pumbaa and Timon, respectively. Barry Jenkins directs with a script from Jeff Nathanson and music by Nicholas Britell, Pharrell Williams, and Hans Zimmer.
