Sequel Better Than Original

From Francis Ford Coppola, starring Al Pacino, Robert De Niro, Robert Duvall, Diane Keaton
Rated R

The Godfather Part II is the 1974 sequel to The Godfather (1972), continuing the saga of the Corleone crime family. The story takes place in both the present day and in the past, following the journey of a young Vito Corleone as he arrives in a new country and builds a criminal empire. In the present, Michael Corleone, Vito's son, struggles to maintain his family's criminal enterprise while trying to lead a more respectable life. He clashes with both his rivals and his own family, as he finds himself caught between loyalty to his family and his own desires. Meanwhile, Vito's past continues to haunt him as he deals with the consequences of his life of crime. This groundbreaking gangster epic is an exploration of the nature of power and family, and is considered to be one of the greatest films of all time.

From Christopher Nolan, starring Christian Bale, Heath Ledger, Aaron Eckhart, Michael Caine
Rated PG-13

The Dark Knight, directed by Christopher Nolan and released in 2008, is a superhero film based on the DC Comics character, Batman. Set within a year after the events of Batman Begins (2005), the story follows Bruce Wayne as he deals with the rising threat of the Joker, a psychopathic anarchist. As the Joker's antics become more and more destructive, Bruce is forced to confront his own personal demons and doubts in order to save Gotham City from the criminal mastermind. Throughout the story, Bruce must come to terms with his role as Batman and the consequences of his actions on the people around him. With the help of allies such as Lucius Fox and Commissioner Gordon, Bruce is ultimately able to confront the Joker and save the city, although not without sacrificing his own life in the process.

From Peter Jackson, starring Elijah Wood, Ian McKellen, Viggo Mortensen, Orlando Bloom
Rated PG-13

The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers is the second installment in Peter Jackson's epic movie trilogy based on the beloved classic novel by J.R.R. Tolkien. The movie follows the continuing adventures of Frodo Baggins, Samwise Gamgee, and their loyal friend, Gollum, as they continue their quest to destroy the One Ring and save Middle-earth from the Dark Lord Sauron and his legions of Orcs. Along the way, they are joined by the brave and powerful Aragorn, the Elf Legolas, and the Dwarf Gimli, who help them battle the treacherous Uruk-hai and the forces of Saruman at the Battle of Helms Deep. The fellowship must also contend with a mysterious and powerful new enemy, the wizard Saruman, who is determined to use the Ring for his own evil purposes. In the end, the fellowship must stand together against the full might of Sauron and his armies in the climactic Battle of the Black Gate.

From Sergio Leone, starring Clint Eastwood, Eli Wallach, Lee Van Cleef, Aldo Giuffrè
Rated R

The Good, the Bad and the Ugly is an epic spaghetti western from 1966 directed by Sergio Leone. Set during the American Civil War, the film follows a trio of gunslingers as they search for a fortune in Confederate gold buried in a cemetery. The "good" is Blondie (Clint Eastwood), the "bad" is Angel Eyes (Lee Van Cleef) and the "ugly" is Tuco (Eli Wallach). As they travel through the dangerous terrain of the American Southwest, they form an uneasy alliance as they compete to be the first to find the gold. Along the way they face various obstacles, including Union and Confederate soldiers, bounty hunters, and each other. With its iconic Ennio Morricone score and unique visual style, The Good, the Bad and the Ugly is a classic of the western genre and a key influence on modern film.

From James Cameron, starring Arnold Schwarzenegger, Linda Hamilton, Edward Furlong, Robert Patrick
Rated R

Terminator 2: Judgment Day is a 1991 science fiction action film directed by James Cameron and starring Arnold Schwarzenegger as the Terminator. The film follows Sarah Connor (Linda Hamilton) and her son John (Edward Furlong) as they are confronted by a new, more advanced Terminator (Robert Patrick) sent back in time to kill John and prevent the future war against machines. With the help of a re-programmed Terminator (Schwarzenegger), the trio attempt to stop the new enemy and save the future. Along the way, they must battle an array of enemies, including a secret government organization, a powerful artificial intelligence, and the T-1000, an advanced liquid metal Terminator. Through their journey, Sarah and John learn about the importance of family, loyalty, and the power of love in the face of danger.

From James Cameron, starring Sigourney Weaver, Michael Biehn, Carrie Henn, Paul Reiser
Rated R

Aliens is a 1986 science fiction action film written and directed by James Cameron. It is the sequel to the 1979 film Alien and the second installment in the Alien franchise. Set 57 years after the events of the first film, it follows Ellen Ripley (Sigourney Weaver) as she is rescued by a deep-space tow-truck crew and joins a team of colonial marines on a mission to investigate the disappearance of colonists on the planet LV-426. When the marines discover the colonists have been wiped out by an alien species known as Xenomorphs, they must battle for their lives against the creatures in an action-packed fight for survival. The film is noted for its tension and intensity, spectacular special effects, and its strong female lead, with Weaver's performance as Ellen Ripley being widely praised. Aliens was a box office success and has since been widely acclaimed as one of the best science fiction films ever made.

From Richard Marquand, starring Mark Hamill, Harrison Ford, Carrie Fisher, Billy Dee Williams
Rated PG

Star Wars: Episode VI - Return of the Jedi is the final installment of the original Star Wars trilogy, released in 1983 and directed by Richard Marquand. The story follows the Rebellion’s attempt to destroy the second Death Star and the Empire’s ultimate defeat. Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill) confronts Darth Vader and Emperor Palpatine (Ian McDiarmid), and attempts to redeem his father. He eventually succeeds, turning Vader back to the light side and saving the galaxy from the tyrannical rule of the Empire. Along the way, the heroes face off against Jabba the Hutt and an army of Ewoks. In the end, the Rebellion is successful, the Death Star is destroyed, and peace is restored to the galaxy.

From Steven Spielberg, starring Harrison Ford, Sean Connery, Alison Doody, Denholm Elliott
Rated PG-13

Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade is an action-adventure film directed by Steven Spielberg and starring Harrison Ford as Dr. Henry "Indiana" Jones, Jr., Sean Connery as Professor Henry Jones, Sr. and Alison Doody as Dr. Elsa Schneider. The film follows Indiana Jones on a mission to locate his father and recover the Holy Grail before it falls into the hands of the Nazis. Along the way, they must contend with a group of Nazi agents led by Walter Donovan, who are also searching for the Grail. Indiana and his father must use their wits and skills to outwit the Nazis and prevent them from obtaining the artifact. Along the way, they uncover a secret society known as the Brotherhood of the Cruciform Sword, who guard the Grail and wish to keep it out of the hands of the Nazis. In the end, Indiana and his father succeed in their mission and bring the Grail to safety.

From David Yates, starring Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, Rupert Grint, Michael Gambon
Rated PG-13

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2 is the climactic conclusion of the Harry Potter film franchise. In the film, Harry, Ron, and Hermione set out to destroy the remaining Horcruxes in order to defeat the Dark Lord Voldemort. The trio faces numerous obstacles, including Death Eaters, dragons, and the enchantments protecting the Horcruxes. In the end, it is up to Harry to make the ultimate sacrifice in order to save the Wizarding World. In the thrilling conclusion, Harry and Voldemort face off in an epic duel, with Harry victorious and the Dark Lord vanquished.

From Robert Zemeckis, starring Michael J. Fox, Christopher Lloyd, Lea Thompson, Tom Wilson
Rated PG

Back to the Future Part II is an action-adventure sci-fi film directed by Robert Zemeckis, the sequel to Back to the Future (1985). The film follows Marty McFly (Michael J. Fox) and his friend Dr. Emmett Brown (Christopher Lloyd). In order to save his future family, Marty must travel back in time again to change the past. In the process, he and Doc come up against Biff Tannen (Thomas F. Wilson) in a future version of Hill Valley. Along the way, they also have to deal with a new version of the DeLorean time machine, a hoverboard and a powerful almanac. In the end, Marty is able to successfully save his family and the future of Hill Valley.

From Directors: Anthony Russo, Joe Russo, starring Chris Evans, Samuel L. Jackson, Scarlett Johansson, Robert Redford
Rated PG-13

Captain America: The Winter Soldier is a 2014 superhero film based on the Marvel Comics character of the same name. Directed by Anthony and Joe Russo, the film stars Chris Evans as Steve Rogers / Captain America, with Scarlett Johansson, Sebastian Stan, Anthony Mackie, Cobie Smulders, Frank Grillo, Emily VanCamp and Robert Redford in supporting roles. Set two years after the events of The Avengers, the film sees Steve Rogers, now working for the espionage agency S.H.I.E.L.D., struggling to adapt to the modern world. When a S.H.I.E.L.D. colleague comes under attack, Rogers becomes embroiled in a web of intrigue that threatens to put the world at risk. Joining forces with Natasha Romanoff / Black Widow and Sam Wilson / Falcon, Rogers battles a mysterious assassin known as the Winter Soldier, who has ties to Rogers' past. The Winter Soldier is a thrilling action-adventure that sees the heroes square off against a powerful and relentless enemy. With spectacular stunts and non-stop action, the film is both a thrilling ride and a timely commentary on modern-day security and surveillance.

From George A. Romero, starring David Emge, Ken Foree, Scott H. Reiniger, Gaylen Ross
Rated Unrated

Dawn of the Dead is a 1978 horror film directed by George A. Romero. The story follows a group of survivors trying to stay alive after an unexplained zombie apocalypse has occurred. The film follows the survivors as they navigate the chaotic landscape of a world overrun by the undead, while also attempting to establish a new life for themselves in an abandoned shopping mall. Eventually, however, the group is forced to confront the true nature of their new existence as they struggle to survive in a world without hope. With its mix of horror, humor, and social commentary, Dawn of the Dead has become a classic of the genre and is considered one of Romero’s best films.

From Peter Jackson, starring Ian McKellen, Martin Freeman, Richard Armitage, Ken Stott
Rated PG-13

The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug is a 2013 fantasy-adventure film directed by Peter Jackson and based on J. R. R. Tolkien's fantasy novel The Hobbit. The second installment in the three-part series, the film follows the quest of the hobbit Bilbo Baggins (Martin Freeman) and his companions - the wizard Gandalf (Ian McKellen) and thirteen dwarves, led by Thorin Oakenshield (Richard Armitage) - as they journey to the Lonely Mountain to reclaim the kingdom of Erebor from the dragon Smaug (Benedict Cumberbatch). Along the way, they encounter a variety of obstacles and dangers, including giant spiders, elves led by the mysterious Elrond (Hugo Weaving), and the shape-shifting creature Beorn (Mikael Persbrandt). The film culminates in an epic confrontation between Bilbo, the dwarves, and Smaug, in which the hobbit uses his cunning to gain the upper hand. The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug was a box office success, grossing over $960 million worldwide, and received generally positive reviews from critics.

From Paul Greengrass, starring Matt Damon, Franka Potente, Joan Allen, Brian Cox
Rated PG-13

The Bourne Supremacy is the second installment of the Jason Bourne film series starring Matt Damon as the titular character. When Jason Bourne is framed for a botched CIA operation, he is forced to resume his former life as a trained assassin to survive. While on the run from dangerous forces both inside and outside of the agency, Bourne is in a race to unlock the secret of his past while searching for the real perpetrators of the crime. He must use his lethal skills to stay one step ahead of his enemies and uncover the truth. Along the way, he discovers a dangerous game of cat and mouse that not even he may be able to win.

From Nicholas Meyer, starring William Shatner, Leonard Nimoy, DeForest Kelley, James Doohan
Rated PG

Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan is a 1982 sci-fi adventure film directed by Nicholas Meyer. The film follows the crew of the Starship Enterprise as they face off against the genetically engineered tyrant Khan Noonien Singh. Admiral James T. Kirk, Spock, and the rest of the crew must stop Khan's plans to exact revenge on Kirk and the Federation. As the battle between them unfolds, they must grapple with their past, discover the power of friendship, and face the ultimate test of loyalty. With the help of their allies, they are ultimately able to overcome Khan and the forces aligned against them.

From David Leitch, starring Ryan Reynolds, Josh Brolin, Morena Baccarin, Julian Dennison
Rated R

Deadpool 2 is a 2018 American superhero film based on the Marvel Comics character Deadpool. It is the eleventh installment in the X-Men film series, and a direct sequel to the 2016 film Deadpool. The film is directed by David Leitch from a script by Rhett Reese, Paul Wernick, and Ryan Reynolds, with Reynolds starring in the title role alongside Josh Brolin, Morena Baccarin, Julian Dennison, Zazie Beetz, T.J. Miller, Brianna Hildebrand, and Jack Kesy. In the film, the character of Deadpool forms the team X-Force to protect a young mutant from Cable, a cybernetic soldier from the future. The film received positive reviews from critics, who praised its humor, performances, and action sequences. It grossed over $785 million worldwide, making it the sixth highest-grossing film of 2018.

From George Miller, starring Mel Gibson, Bruce Spence, Michael Preston, Max Phipps
Rated R

The Road Warrior is an Australian post-apocalyptic action film directed by George Miller and released in 1981. The film follows Max Rockatansky, a survivor of a nuclear holocaust, as he travels through a wasteland in search of fuel. He comes across a group of settlers who are under attack from a group of bandits and decides to help them. With the help of a warrior, Max manages to hold off the bandits and save the settlers, who offer him a reward. Max declines and instead takes the fuel he needs to continue his journey. Along the way, he learns that the wasteland is being terrorized by an evil tyrant, the Humungus. Max decides to help the settlers again and, with the help of the warrior, defeats the Humungus and his gang. The settlers are then able to return to their settlement in peace.

From Jeremiah S. Chechik, starring Chevy Chase, Beverly D'Angelo, Juliette Lewis, Johnny Galecki
Rated PG-13

National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation is a classic holiday comedy directed by Jeremiah S. Chechik. The movie follows the Griswold family as they prepare for the holidays with all the usual joys and mishaps. Clark Griswold, played by Chevy Chase, is determined to have the perfect Christmas, despite his family's best efforts to ruin it. He has grand plans for a holiday celebration, but things start to go awry when his annoying cousin Eddie and his family move in for the holidays. From there, hijinks ensue as the Griswolds attempt to salvage their holiday. Along the way, Clark learns to appreciate his family, and the importance of cherishing Christmas together.

From Bryan Singer, starring Patrick Stewart, Hugh Jackman, Halle Berry, Ian McKellen
Rated PG-13

From Sam Raimi, starring Tobey Maguire, Kirsten Dunst, Alfred Molina, James Franco
Rated PG-13

From Christopher McQuarrie, starring Tom Cruise, Rebecca Ferguson, Jeremy Renner, Simon Pegg
Rated PG-13

From Terence Young, starring Sean Connery, Robert Shaw, Lotte Lenya, Daniela Bianchi
Rated PG

From Blake Edwards, starring Peter Sellers, Elke Sommer, George Sanders, Herbert Lom
Rated PG

From Sylvester Stallone, starring Sylvester Stallone, Talia Shire, Burt Young, Carl Weathers
Rated PG

From Justin Lin, starring Vin Diesel, Paul Walker, Dwayne Johnson, Jordana Brewster
Rated PG-13