5 unforgettably bad sequels to stream after you see ‘Joker: Folie à Deux’

5 unforgettably bad sequels to stream after you see 'Joker: Folie à Deux'

As a movie enthusiast with a knack for sifting through the cinematic junkyard, I can confidently say that these “bad sequels” have found a special place in my heart, if not on the top shelves of critical acclaim. Each one represents a fascinating journey into the realm of unintended comedy, where creative visionaries seem to have taken a wrong turn at some point during production.


This week, ‘Joker: Folie a Deux’ has been making waves for unfortunate reasons: The sequel to 2019’s hit film ‘Joker’, featuring the twisted comic book antagonist, failed to impress both critics and viewers despite the reappearance of Academy Award winner Joaquin Phoenix and the allure of Lady Gaga.

The movie has joined an unwanted group of films – flopped sequels to box office hits. This collection includes numerous puzzling disappointments, which strangely lacked the original’s innovative and captivating qualities that led to its success.

As a die-hard movie enthusiast, I must confess that some films from the “return of the original” category might not live up to expectations. However, these very same productions have found a special place in the hearts of fans who appreciate their unique charm – a charm that can only be described as “so bad it’s good.” Here are a few “must-watch” cult sequels, streaming now. Proceed with caution!

5 unforgettably bad sequels to stream after you see 'Joker: Folie à Deux'

In this 1977 sequel to the terrifying ‘The Exorcist,’ often hailed as the scariest film ever, it seems Satan may have dozed off. ‘The Exorcist II: The Heretic’ brings back Linda Blair as Regan McNeil, a character once possessed by the Devil, but the lack of involvement from original director William Friedkin, writer William Peter Blatty, and actress Ellen Burstyn, along with creative disagreements, may have foreshadowed the less-than-favorable reception of ‘The Heretic,’ which was released four years after the first film.

When asked about her issues, Regan expressed, “I was overtaken by an evil spirit. But don’t worry, it’s moved on now.

5 unforgettably bad sequels to stream after you see 'Joker: Folie à Deux'

Discussing a leap beyond believability! Released in 1978, “Jaws 2” – available on Netflix now – can be seen as a watery reenactment of the original blockbuster horror film by Steven Spielberg. In this sequel, a new man-eating shark targets a group of irritating teenagers who unwittingly serve as its meal. The original film’s star, Roy Scheider, managed to rescue most of the kids but couldn’t prevent “Jaws 2” from flopping at the box office. Despite its failure, “Jaws 2” appears superior when compared to the string of lackluster big-screen adaptations that followed, culminating in the mercifully concluded series with 1987’s “Jaws: The Revenge.

Signature line: Terrorized teen Tina Wilcox: “Sh-sh-sh-SHAAAAARRRRRRK!”

“Grease 2” (Paramount+): Unlike in the original hit musical “Grease,” John Travolta, Olivia Newton-John, and many other cast members chose not to participate in the 1982 sequel titled “Grease 2.” Instead, Pat Birch, who was the choreographer for the first film, stepped into the director’s role. The storyline, which had its challenges, was enhanced with several lively dance numbers such as the sprightly “Reproduction” set in a sex education class. While the original cast is missed, this movie holds significance as it introduced Michelle Pfeiffer for the first time in a leading role and marked the acting debut of Pamela Adlon, who later became famous for her work on “Better Things,” playing a member of the Pink Ladies.

Signature line: The “Cool Rider” lyric, “If he’s cool enough, he can burn me through and through, whoa, whoa, whoa.”

5 unforgettably bad sequels to stream after you see 'Joker: Folie à Deux'

Revisiting the Dance Floor”: Travolta made a comeback, all buffed up and shiny, in this 1983 follow-up to “Saturday Night Fever,” titled “Staying Alive,” which garnered him an Oscar nomination for his portrayal of disco icon Tony Manero. Post-disco, Tony tries his luck on the Broadway stage, landing a part in a flamboyant dance spectacle. However, Sylvester Stallone’s endeavor to blend a musical with a “Rocky”-esque narrative falls flat, drawing heavily from “A Chorus Line” and “All That Jazz.” The transformation of Tony from a charismatic, sensitive character to a self-centered brute is clumsy. Even the sparse Bee Gees tunes on the soundtrack seem lackluster. It seems even Rocky’s wife Adrian would find this iteration of Tony underwhelming!

Title for our dance production: “Satan’s Alley” – Experience a harrowing odyssey through the depths of Hell and ultimately ascend to Heaven.

5 unforgettably bad sequels to stream after you see 'Joker: Folie à Deux'

This month, the American Cinematheque honors the 30th anniversary of the adrenaline-pumping “Speed” starring Keanu Reeves and Sandra Bullock. In this thriller, a young police officer races against time to keep a bomb on a bus from detonating by maintaining speeds over 50 mph. However, unlike its predecessor, the sequel, titled “Cruise Control,” is unlikely to receive a similar recognition. The original director, Jan de Bont, returned, but Keanu Reeves opted out, with Sandra Bullock accepting a substantial paycheck – around $12 million – to reprise her role as Annie. Her new love interest is daring LAPD officer Alex Shaw, played by Jason Patric. Together, they embark on a cruise where the villain, John Geiger (Willem Dafoe), has planted a bomb. The outcome was more of a cinematic speed hiccup compared to the original.

Signature line: Geiger calling out, “Annie, come back! You’re my hostage!”

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2024-10-08 21:31

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