Okay, if anyone knows me, they know I can’t stop talking about “The Avengers.” The more I think about the movie, the more I think it might just be the best superhero film of all time. Of course, this isn’t the end for Marvel’s cinematic universe.
Before “The Avengers” even came out, Marvel had already announced release dates for next chapters featuring Iron Man, Thor and Captain America. There are even talks about the Hulk receiving another film of his own after critics and audiences praised Mark Ruffalo’s performance as Dr. Bruce Banner. But I can’t help but wonder how the filmmakers should proceed with these next installments.
Therefore, I’ve decided to take a look at the upcoming installments in Marvel’s film franchise. This includes the three primary films that have already been announced. I’ll talk about what we officially know so far and what I think might result from that information. First, we revisit Tony Stark.
IRON MAN 3
WHAT WE KNOW: Currently, “Iron Man 3” is the next film set to be unleashed upon the world. Admittedly, “Iron Man 2” was flawed, but it still had plenty of action. Now, it looks like Marvel may be taking the hero in a newer direction.
Director Jon Favreau announced that he was stepping down as the director despite retaining a producer role for “The Avengers.” This is where “Kiss Kiss Bang Bang” director Shane Black has stepped in to take on the challenge of bringing Tony Stark back to the big screen. With “Kiss Kiss,” Black already has a good working relationship with Robert Downey Jr.
Other confirmed news is that Gwyneth Paltrow and Don Cheadle are returning alongside Iron Man. Actor Guy Pearce has been cast as Aldrich Killian, which has led some to believe that the story may have connections to the “Extremis” story arc. Finally, according to producer Kevin Feige, the film will pretty much stick to the hero’s story rather than trying to include other elements of the established universe.
The film is currently set to be released on May 3, 2013.
WHAT I THINK: It’s a good idea to make a story that focuses solely on Iron Man. The success of “The Avengers” is great, but there does not have to be a crossover event with every film. It would still be nice to have a possible cameo by Ruffalo considering one scene featured in the epic team up film, but that’s not even needed.
Black is a proven action film writer and “Kiss Kiss” is an underrated film. It also appears to be building a solid cast. So far, it looks like Marvel is on the right track with this movie.
THOR 2
WHAT WE KNOW: This is the second film set to be released next year when it releases on November 15, 2013. Chris Hemsworth and Tom Hiddleston were confirmed to be cast in the film first. Then, it was confirmed that Natalie Portman would return as Jane Foster, despite being upset about Marvel letting go of the original director for the project, “Monster” director Patty Jenkins.
Jenkins’ firing did lead to the decision to hire Alan Taylor, best known for directing two episodes of the hit HBO show “Game of Thrones.” According to Feige, the film is set to begin production in August.
WHAT I THINK: “Thor” was the only film in the Marvel lineup that I was worried about because I was never that big of a fan in the first place. I was pleasantly surprised by the finished product and now I’m a fan that’s looking forward to the sequel. Also, Hemsworth has hinted that Taylor plans on making a more tangible and real Asgard and that sounds like a great direction for the series.
CAPTAIN AMERICA 2
WHAT WE KNOW: With a release date set for April 4, 2014, this is the film with the least bit of information. There are a couple of directors in consideration for the film, but no solid decision has been made. The movie has found its writers with Stephen McFeely and Christopher Markus being brought onboard.
As far as the story is concerned, there have been a couple of ideas. One idea has to deal with flashbacks to World War II. This gives the writers a chance to explore more of that chapter in Steve Rogers’ life. Closer to the release of “The Avengers,” the studio announced that the next Captain America movie would take place after “The Avengers” and would deal with his involvement in S.H.I.E.L.D.
WHAT I THINK: “Captain America: The First Avenger” was the only film that felt completely rushed in order to get Cap into the Avengers. While the first film was still a lot of fun to watch, I want this sequel to be more centered on Captain America. Also, “The Avengers” did not get to really explore Captain’s adjustment to living in modern times and that would be cool to explore.
THE ROAD TO ‘THE AVENGERS 2’
Inevitably, all of these sequels (including the possible Hulk film) are going to lead to “The Avengers 2.” The sequel was officially greenlit after the original film’s massive $207.9 million opening weekend. The only problem getting to this film will be securing the stars for another go around.
For example, after “Iron Man 3,” Downey’s contract is finished. Disney and Marvel would be wise to go ahead and try to get him committed for the Avengers sequel. Should “The Avengers 2” be successful, Disney and Marvel can then go and find other superheroes to focus on in order to make a new roster of Avengers. The possibilities are endless, but must be handled with care.
It was a filmmaking miracle that Marvel, Paramount and Disney were able to go from “Iron Man” all the way to “The Avengers” in just four short years. It will definitely be an interesting thing to see where Marvel and Disney will take this cinematic universe next.
Not long ago, I got into a discussion with a couple of friends and discovered that I was not the only one who actually enjoys “Ghostbusters 2.” Beyond my friend Schuler, every time I bring up “Ghostbusters 2,” I have to hear about how it’s not as good as the original or that it just plain sucks. But not anymore. There was another fan out there who actually didn’t think that it was a giant turd.
After this conversation, I decided to take a look at other film sequels that are not really as bad as people make them out to be. Now, that is not to say that the following films are classics and do not have their flaws. In fact, most of the time, it is their flaws that make people cringe at the very mention of their names.
The following list is not a comprehensive list of underrated sequels, just a handful of movies that I could think of and you may disagree with part or all of the following list of films. In fact, you may have your own additions to the list and I hope that you would discuss. Let’s get started
GHOSTBUSTERS 2
Its Apparent Flaws: Well, it followed the original classic that is pretty much a perfect comedy. That alone is a tough act to follow. In addition to that, the franchise was already turned into a kid friendly series with “The Real Ghostbusters” cartoon. When the sequel was finally made, it ended up being a rehash of the first film revolving around the boys having to save Dana Barrett from a not so friendly ghost.
Why It’s Underrated: The original Ghostbusters are back and better than ever. All four of the guys alone make up for the lesser script. Also, there’s a great turn by Peter MacNicol as a creepy and then possessed character named Dr. Janosz Poha that’s also worth a watch. The film definitely does not aspire to be better than the first film, but at least it just tries to be a fun ride and on that mark, it pretty much succeeds.
Quote: “Suck in the guts, guys, we’re the Ghostbusters.”
THE GODFATHER PART III
Its Apparent Flaws: Compared to the first two parts in Francis Ford Coppola’s epic gangster trilogy, it’s just not as strong. This means that for a lot of people, the movie is just not that good. There is some bad makeup, a slightly more over-the-top performance during certain scenes from Al Pacino and Sophia Coppola proves here that she made a smart career change from acting to directing.
Why It’s Underrated: Just because the film is not as good as the first two movies does not necessarily make it bad. The story does fall short of being as epic as the first two films, but at least there was forward progression with the narrative and a proper conclusion to the saga. With the original film, audiences saw the rise of Michael Corleone and Part II saw the crime boss reach the height of his power. Here, Corleone is an aging don that remembers why he never wanted to be a part of the family in the first place. He has lost his wife and is just now beginning to reconnect with his children. Also, Andy Garcia does a great job as the volatile Vincent Mancini.
Quote: “Just when I thought I was out, they pull me back in.”
BACK TO THE FUTURE PART III
Its Apparent Flaws: After seeing a wacky future and an alternate 1985 in “Back to the Future Part II,” audiences couldn’t wait to see where the third and final chapter would take Doc Brown and Marty McFly. This time, the two time travelers kept it pretty simple as they found themselves stuck in the Wild West. Since there were not a whole lot of cutting-edge effects like the previous sequel, this installment didn’t seem to catch the imagination quite as much as its successors.
Why It’s Underrated: This film successfully completes the journey of Marty McFly and it does it in a heroic fashion. Set in the Wild West, there are plenty of old-school effects and all of the themes from the first two films carry on with this installment. Not only is the chemistry still there between Michael J. Fox and Christopher Lloyd, but this time the Doc finds love with Mary Steenburgen’s Clara Clayton who also turns in a great performance.
Quote: “So you’re my great-grandfather. The first McFly born in America. And you peed on me.”
GREMLINS 2: THE NEW BATCH
Its Apparent Flaws: The first “Gremlins” movie was a great satire on the creature flicks of old. It was extremely well done and despite having plenty of humor, there was a more serious tone. With the sequel, director Joe Dante had full control over the production and decided to create a completely satirical, roller-coaster flick with a very distinctive comment on the ‘80s consumer culture that had just ended and carried over into the ’90s. For most, they made the accurate observation that this film just did not have the same feel as Dante’s original classic beyond the few returning cast members.
Why It’s Underrated: It’s funny as hell. It is true that the film is extremely different than its predecessor and has an almost strictly humorous tone. But if the audience can disconnect it from its original source material, the apparent flaws are actually what make the film extremely enjoyable to watch. It’s also fun to realize that Dante is making a statement about how the only rule for a sequel is that bigger is better.
Quote: “All they have to do is eat three or four children and there’d be the most appalling publicity.”
INDIANA JONES AND THE TEMPLE OF DOOM
"I miss Marion..."
Its Apparent Flaws: Unlike the first three films in the Indiana Jones series, “Temple of Doom” is without a doubt the darkest. It even features the main villain ripping out a beating heart from one of his living victims before sending the poor soul into a pit of flames. Somehow, the film still managed to get a PG rating, but plenty of people complained about the level of violence and Steven Spielberg even suggested that there be a new rating between R and PG. Before long, the PG-13 rating was born. Also, the female lead is nothing more than a screaming, underdeveloped character compared to Marion Ravenwood from the first film, “Raiders of the Lost Ark.”
Why It’s Underrated: The film is undoubtedly the darkest, but it also features some of the best Indy sequences in the series. This includes an exciting opening sequence in a restaurant, a daring escape from an abandoned airplane and a climactic fight on an old wooden bridge. Also, the darkness in the film makes the villains seem like a very real threat as opposed to the bumbling Nazis from “The Last Crusade.”
Quote: “Mola Ram! Prepare to meet Kali… in Hell!”
INDIANA JONES AND THE KINGDOM OF THE CRYSTAL SKULL
Its Apparent Flaws: Aliens! Every time this film is mentioned, the discussion turns negatively towards the aliens. The funny thing is that mystical religious artifacts are fine, but aliens are where fans draw the fucking line. Also, Indy gets saved from a nuclear bomb test by hopping into a lead-lined refrigerator. Finally, there is an abundance of CGI work compared to the first three films which had more of an old-school filmmaking approach.
Why It’s Underrated: It’s fun! That is all an Indy film really has to be. People were so uptight about the alien aspect of the film that they forgot that there are plenty of great Indy moments to be found. There are the famous chases across the globe and even Marion returns as Indy’s original love. Sure, the film is not perfect, but it’s also nowhere near as bad as people say.
Quote: “What exactly am I being accused of other than surviving a nuclear explosion?”
BATMAN RETURNS
Its Apparent Flaws: When Tim Burton directed “Batman” in 1989, he changed the way superhero films would be made. He proved that superheroes were not just for kids and made a hugely successful film in the process. It’s no surprise that Warner Bros. wanted Burton to return for the sequel. The result was a signature Tim Burton film that happens to feature Batman. Also, the film breaks certain rules about the character (the Bat doesn’t willingly kill anybody) and strays further from the source material. This includes a grotesque representation of the Penguin that had parents complaining that the film was too dark for their kids.
Why It’s Underrated: This is another film also works for the very reasons that most people hate. While DeVito’s portrayal of the Penguin is that of a sewer dweller, he still captures the essence of his comic book counterpart. Also, Michelle Pfeiffer gives a memorable turn as Catwoman that is ten times better than Halle Berry’s take on the character. Burton’s world also works in that it establishes a gothic look reminiscent of the Gotham found in graphic novels such as “The Dark Knight Returns.”
Quote: “You’re just jealous, because I’m a genuine freak and you have to wear a mask.”
X-MEN: THE LAST STAND
Its Apparent Flaws: The fact is that the film is just not as fresh and therefore not as good as the first two films. More to the point, it also started the downward trend of the franchise. It also took a major blow when director Bryan Singer decided not to return and Brett Ratner took over. The film’s story is not as solid and speeds along with a tired, been-there-done-that feel.
Why It’s Underrated: As a standalone film, “The Last Stand” does not hold up all that well. However, with the other two films, it does give a proper conclusion to the original “X-Men” trilogy. Another highlight of the film was a good representation of the Phoenix in the more realistic world already established by Singer. In other words, Ratner did the best he could and there are far worse sequels out there.
Quotes: “Don’t you know who I am? I’m the Juggernaut, bitch!”
THE LOST WORLD: JURASSIC PARK
Its Apparent Flaws: The first thing that this film suffers from is the fact that audiences were now used to CGI dinosaurs and now it was time to see what else they could do. The biggest problem with this sequel is that it really breaks no new ground. The novel on which it is based is also largely ignored for bigger escapist action, such as the T-Rex being released on the streets of San Diego. For plenty of audience members, this is not just an inferior sequel, it sucks.
Why It’s Underrated: Despite providing nothing new, the film does contain some awesome special-effects and the story could have been a lot worse. Also, Jeff Goldblum is just as strong as Dr. Malcolm as he was in the first film. The rest of the cast is also strong including Julianne Moore, Vince Vaughn and the late, great Pete Postlethwaite in a scene stealing performance as big-game hunter Roland Tembo.
Quote: “Oh, yeah. Ooh, ah, that’s how it always starts. Then later there’s running and screaming.”
THE FRENCH CONNECTION II
Its Apparent Flaws: In 1971, director William Friedkin released “The French Connection” and it became an instant classic with an Academy-Award winning performance by Gene Hackman. In 1975, “The French Connection II” sent Hackman’s detective Doyle to France in order to finally bring drug smuggler Alain Charnier to justice. The film is less of a drama like its predecessor and more of an action flick. It does not have the same impact and is a more formulaic flick from “The Manchurian Candidate” director John Frankenheimer.
Why It’s Underrated: Despite a more standard story, Frankenheimer masterfully directs Hackman who is as strong as ever with his portrayal of “Popeye” Doyle. In the first film, there is a massive chase sequence featuring Doyle trying desperately to keep up with a New York train. Here, Frankenheimer skillfully films a foot chase as Doyle tries to get to Charnier before he can elude the dedicated detective once again.
Quote: “I’m gonna take you right down in that alley there. Right down there. And we’ll start, we’ll start on your throat, right here. Bustin’ everything in it. You like that, uh. Then your belly. I’ll start workin’ on your belly. I’m gonna hit you so fuckin’ hard that the belly’s gonna break your backbone.”
PREDATOR 2
Its Apparent Flaws: For many people, the original “Predator” is a classic monster movie. With “Predator 2,” the action moves from the jungle slightly into the future (at the time) and sees a hardboiled detective played by Danny Glover trying to fight off gangs when a new Predator takes the stage. Upon release, the film was viewed as an inferior sequel that does not really add anything new to the Predator mythos.
Why It’s Underrated: Despite the similar narrative, the movie still provides all the gory fun that one would expect from a “Predator” movie. It is also helped by a good performance by Danny Glover, a far superior actor to Arnold Schwarzenegger. Lieutenant Mike Harrigan turns out to be quite the badass.
Quote: “A pro would have split the moment the action started. More than one and we would have seen them. Whoever did this waited until the last second, took out six guys armed with machine guns by hand, then got by us. Maybe we should give him a job. Put him on the payroll.”
ALIEN 3
Its Apparent Flaws: Due to several production problems, the story behind “Alien 3” was compromised almost from the start. The story not only feels incomplete, but it is also filled with unsavory characters beyond main heroine Ripley. This means that it is very hard to care for the characters when the alien comes to attack them.
Why It’s Underrated: Two words: David Fincher. Despite the director’s constant clashes with the studio, Fincher’s distinctive and gritty style is all over the movie. Also, the film still contains iconic scenes such as the alien hovering slowly over Ripley and a pretty strong ending. Flawed? Absolutely. Worst Sequel ever? Far from it.
Quote: “Don’t be afraid, I’m part of the family.”
ALIEN RESURRECTION
Its Apparent Flaws: The movie tries way too hard to be “Aliens,” a known fan-favorite of the series. After the dismal reception for the third entry, the studio and the filmmakers decided on a back-to-the-basics approach. The characters are definitely more likable this time around, but they still cannot reach the same level as those found in the first two movies.
Why It’s Underrated: There are three characters that are decent reasons to catch the flick. Of course, there is the return of Sigourney Weaver as Ripley. Then there is Winona Ryder as Annalee Call and Ron Perlman as Johner who are also fun to watch. Like most of the sequels on this list, “Resurrection” is far from perfect, but it does contain some great action sequences such as the aliens chasing the heroes through a water filled room.
Quote: “She’ll breed. You’ll die. Everyone in the company will die.”
ROBOCOP 2
Its Apparent Flaws: The original film was a violent commentary on consumerism, the evils of the drug cartels and the corruption of those in power. With the sequel, the story focused primarily on RoboCop with no real message to show for it. Since the first film’s release, the appeal of the character with kids evolved. Despite the violence found in the first movie, adults were still upset over the violence found in this movie.
Why It’s Underrated: Despite the lack of social commentary, there is still plenty of great action found within. This is also lead by another great turn by Peter Weller as RoboCop. It’s also refreshing to see a film that does not try and lighten things up for the kids and remembers its violent roots.
Quote: “Thank you for not smoking.”
THE EXORCIST III
Its Apparent Flaws: When the abysmal first sequel, “Exorcist II: The Heretic” was released, the franchise seemed to be all but dead. Then, in 1983, William Peter Blatty wrote a literary sequel to his original bestseller, “The Exorcist.” The book was called “Legion” and once it became a bestseller, Warner Bros. jumped at the idea to do the film adaptation. Blatty himself directed the movie, but before long, the studio stepped in and tried their best to screw everything up. They demanded severe reshoots, they changed the title to “The Exorcist III” and forced Blatty to throw in an exorcism. The result was a film that differed greatly from its source material and compromised Blatty’s original vision. This turned almost everybody off of the film.
Why It’s Underrated: Despite obvious studio interference, the tacked on exorcism is not that bad and the rest of the movie has a beautifully gritty look befitting a horror film. There is a great over-the-top performance by George C. Scott and it is definitely a hell of a lot better than “The Heretic.”
Quote: “I have dreams… of a rose, and then falling down a long flight of steps.”
DAY OF THE DEAD
Its Apparent Flaws: The third film in George A. Romero’s original trilogy of “Living Dead” films, most people ignore “Day of the Dead” for the arguably superior “Dawn of the Dead.” Admittedly, it does not pack quite the same punch as its predecessors. It follows Romero’s own formula a little too well and never really becomes its own movie.
Why It’s Underrated: Despite its adherence to formula, this is actually a strong entry in Romero’s classic series. The message of social decay may not be as strong as “Dawn’s” comments on consumerism, but it’s still somewhat effective. Also, this film contains some of the best zombie special-effects in the entire series.
Quote: “What the fuck is wrong with you people? They’re dead! They’re fuckin’ dead!”
BLADE: TRINITY
Its Apparent Flaws: The fact is that the third film in the successful “Blade” trilogy is just not as good as the first two movies. Dracula is the weakest villain to have appeared at this point and the entire movie just does not seem to have an identity on its own. The first film was a gritty, smaller film by Stephen Norrington. “Blade II” was a visual feast from Guillermo del Toro. Here, Goyer proved that he was not as good a director as he is a writer.
Why It’s Underrated: Despite the lesser filmmaking style and a weak villain, there is still plenty of vampire hunting action to be had by all. Wesley Snipes gives another decent performance as the famous Daywalker. This time, he’s not alone with other brilliant performances by Jessica Biel as Abigail Whistler and Ryan Reynolds as Hannibal King.
Quote: “In the movies, Dracula wears a cape and some old English guy always manages to save the day at the last minute with crosses and holy water. But everybody knows the movies are full of shit. The truth is, it started with Blade, and it ended with him. The rest of us were just along for the ride.”
HANNIBAL
Its Apparent Flaws: Any film that would have been chosen to follow up the classic “Silence of the Lambs” was destined to be considered inferior. Such is the case with director Ridley Scott’s sequel, “Hannibal.” The new movie deviates greatly from its extremely violent source material but still manages to keep the gore level up pretty high. This different approach turned fans away that liked “Silence,” which was more of a psychological thriller than a slasher flick. Also, Julianne Moore takes over for Jodie Foster in the role of FBI Agent Clarice Starling and Foster’s absence is noticeable.
Why It’s Underrated: The film actually works because it does not try to be “Silence of the Lambs.” Scott decides to create a world as it is seen through Hannibal’s eyes. It’s horrific, but it also leads to some classic scenes such as when Ray Liotta’s character gets his comeuppance from Hannibal for treating Clarice like garbage.
Quote: “On a similar note I must confess to you, I’m giving very serious thought… to eating your wife.”
LETHAL WEAPON 4
Its Apparent Flaws: Six years after the release of “Lethal Weapon 3,” Mel Gibson and Danny Glover decided to return for one more case with “Lethal Weapon 4.” The film does not feel as fresh as the first three films and there was constant rewriting behind-the-scenes that compromised the story that remained. Ultimately, Riggs and Murtaugh really were starting to get too old for this shit.
Why It’s Underrated: It’s one last good “Lethal Weapon” movie. Gibson and Glover still have their same chemistry working for them. Also back in full force is a strong supporting cast that included series favorites Rene Russo and Joe Pesci along with the introduction of Chris Rock to the series. It was also the first American film to really establish Jet Li as an international star. Ultimately, the movie ends up being a funny, action packed goodbye letter to the action films of the ’80s that it helped spawn.
Quote: “You have the right to remain silent, so shut the fuck up, okay? You have the right to an attorney. If you can’t afford an attorney, we’ll provide you with the dumbest fucking lawyer on earth. If you get Johnny Cochrane, I’ll kill ya!”
SUPERMAN III
Its Apparent Flaws: I’m just fuckin’ with you. This film is still a piece of shit! Good night, everybody!
WHAT WE KNOW: Currently, “Iron Man 3” is the next film set to be unleashed upon the world. Admittedly, “Iron Man 2” was flawed, but it still had plenty of action. Now, it looks like Marvel may be taking the hero in a newer direction.
WHAT WE KNOW: This is the second film set to be released next year when it releases on November 15, 2013. Chris Hemsworth and Tom Hiddleston were confirmed to be cast in the film first. Then, it was confirmed that Natalie Portman would return as Jane Foster, despite being upset about Marvel letting go of the original director for the project, “Monster” director Patty Jenkins.
WHAT WE KNOW: With a release date set for April 4, 2014, this is the film with the least bit of information. There are a couple of directors in consideration for the film, but no solid decision has been made. The movie has found its writers with Stephen McFeely and Christopher Markus being brought onboard.
