Top 10 Best 2-Movie Franchises
#10: “It” (2017) & “It Chapter Two” (2019)
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Set over 27 years, the adaptations of Stephen King’s horror novel are a two-part scare fest. “Chapter One” details the lives of the Losers Club at the bottom of the barrel in the town of Derry. The kids are terrorized by the mysterious It, who manifests as Pennywise the Clown. “Chapter Two” follows the characters as adults trying to destroy the villain for good. “It’s” creepy atmosphere comes from the protagonists’ deepest fears, which serve as the basis for the horrors that unfold. Stellar performances by both young and adult cast members sell its premise, while Bill Skarsgård’s star-making turn steals the show. The films are also complemented by Stephen King’s similarly chilling “The Shining,” including its 2019 sequel “Doctor Sleep.”
#9: “The Hustler” (1961) & “The Color of Money” (1986)
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Following pool hustler “Fast” Eddie, these two films depict the character in his younger and older days. “The Hustler” is about Eddie’s obsession with beating legendary player Minnesota Fats, which comes close to destroying his life. In the sequel, Eddie becomes a mentor to the similarly gifted Vincent Lauria. We watch as Eddie grapples with success, arrogance, and the inability to deal with failure. Paul Newman shines in both films, winning the Oscar for Best Actor for “The Color of Money.” The story blurs the lines between winning and losing, as Eddie struggles with his choices. It’s a fascinating character arc spread out between two quality films. Not to mention all the pool sequences that are a treat to watch.
#8: “Hellboy” (2004) & “Hellboy II: The Golden Army” (2008)
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Based on the comics of the same name, Guillermo del Toro’s “Hellboy” entries are a masterclass in dark superhero cinema. The main character battles his destiny of ushering in the apocalypse, choosing to use his powers for good. While the overarching plot is gripping, the expressive visuals in the backdrop of a bleak, supernatural setting are truly captivating. Smart dialogue and larger-than-life characters go hand in hand, making for a well-rounded cast that connects with viewers. Sadly, the series was robbed of future sequels. 2019’s critically lambasted “Hellboy” served as an ill-fated reboot that pales in comparison to del Toro’s duology.
#7: “28 Days Later” (2002) & “28 Weeks Later” (2007)
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The zombie landscape was pretty cluttered by the time of “28 Days Later’s” release. However, the film served as a reinvention, delivering a story about the human condition. As the characters are surrounded by the infected, they shed their morality to survive. The panic and hysteria on display hit hard. “28 Weeks Later” shows the catastrophe on a larger scale, as we see how humans have tried to cope. The calamity shows how such an event can bring out the best or worst in people. The series is also credited with popularizing the genre once again, influencing several zombie films released over the following decade.
#6: “Gremlins” (1984) & “Gremlins 2: The New Batch” (1990)
Depending on how you see it, these films can be scary or a total parody. The first entry is heavy on gore and big on comedy, making light of horror tropes of the time. Centering around the titular creatures, things go off the rails after the monsters start to multiply and wreak havoc. Although it sounds scary, the film keeps a consistently light tone that balances the otherwise gruesome imagery. The follow-up completely embraces its potential for humor, being a gag-filled experience that keeps the jokes coming. They aren’t for everyone, but there’s great entertainment value in these quirky films that don’t take themselves seriously.
#5: “The Incredibles” (2004) & “Incredibles 2” (2018)
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Back in 2004, Pixar surprised fans with a superhero movie that ticks all the right boxes. Sure, “The Incredibles” does have, well, incredible action, but it’s the layered characterizations that hit the mark. Whether it’s Mr. Incredible’s midlife crisis or Violet’s desire to fit in, each member of the family is relatable. Even the antagonist Syndrome has an understandable villainous arc. Director Brad Bird hit another home run with the long-awaited sequel, which deals with the supers’ bid for acceptance. With a roster of memorable characters like Frozone and Edna Mode, the movies are endlessly quotable. Just remember, no capes!
#4: “The Raid” (2011) & “The Raid 2” (2014)
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Fight scenes are always fun. But they’re even better when servicing the film’s story. “The Raid” does just that, as the protagonists battle for their lives. The original is about a raid squad who end up in way over their heads. Trapped inside the enemy’s lair, they kill their way out of a criminal complex while their numbers dwindle. “The Raid 2” is closer to the standard thriller, but with fight choreography that evolves to crazier levels. Creative stuntwork and camera effects bolster an already effective directorial style, with some awe-inspiring scenes. Viewers can see themselves in the heroes’ shoes as dangers lurk in every corner. It’s a frenzy of kickass action that’s bloody, brutal, and brilliant.
#3: “Top Gun” (1986) & “Top Gun: Maverick” (2022)
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Despite a 36-year gap between releases, this series is in top form all the way through. Following Tom Cruise’s character, Maverick, the films depict his journey from a gifted young aviator to a veteran training the next generation. Part two expands on the original’s story, as Maverick deals with long-held feelings of guilt and regret. There’s also the aerial scenes that are simply magnificent to behold, providing a genuine sense of realism thanks to the incredible practical effects. The 1986 entry was the highest-grossing film of the year, while the sequel flew to almost $1.5 billion at the box office to cement both movies as crowd-pleasing blockbusters.
#2: “Blade Runner” (1982) & “Blade Runner 2049” (2017)
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A classic in the neo-noir genre, this series is the peak of dark, gritty filmmaking. The 1982 film introduced an entire world to viewers, and the lore was deepened by the 2017 sequel. The story revolves around replicants dealing with injustice and uncovering conspiracies that threaten civilization. Harrison Ford’s Rick Deckard is at the center of the narrative that twists and turns across decades. Along with the plot, “Blade Runner” offers compelling themes that keep fans wondering what they represent. Everything from the futuristic set designs, subtle imagery, and cyberpunk cinematography takes the breath away. This duology’s inspired aesthetic and social commentary remain evergreen.
#1: “Kill Bill: Volume 1” (2003) & Kill Bill: Volume 2” (2004)
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Technically one film split into two parts, “Kill Bill” is an unforgettable thriller. The Bride is out for blood after being betrayed on her wedding day. The long runtime allows her mission to be told in full, as we watch her story play out from start to finish. Tarantino utilizes a stellar cast who portray their characters with the required attitude and energy. While the general outline is simple, the films' genre-hopping makes for an unpredictable adventure. It’s a blend of snappy one-liners, violent martial arts sequences, and tongue-in-cheek humor. True to form, this duology culminates in an awesome finale that does justice to the sprawling story of revenge.
