Do You Need to Watch Olympus Has Fallen Before Angel Has Fallen?

As you contemplate diving into the action-packed world of the Angel Has Fallen series, a common question arises: Do you need to watch the previous film, Olympus Has Fallen, before watching Angel Has Fallen? Let's explore the connection between these two films and determine if watching Olympus Has Fallen is necessary for a full understanding and enjoyment of Angel Has Fallen.

Setting the Stage with Olympus Has Fallen

The first film, Olympus Has Fallen, introduces audiences to Mike Banning, a Secret Service agent who must navigate a dangerous situation as terrorists and the U.S. President are both targeted. This standalone film sets up the characters, establishes the world, and creates intrigue that can be fascinating for new viewers. Many reviewers and directors recommend watching Olympus Has Fallen first to get a complete picture of the characters and the political landscape portrayed in the sequel.

No Need to Start with Olympus Has Fallen

However, not all viewers feel the need to watch Olympus Has Fallen before watching Angel Has Fallen. The sequel, Angel Has Fallen, includes several carryovers, primarily focusing on the lead character Mike Banning, who returns in a central role. The film also introduces a new President who was previously the Speaker of the House in Olympus Has Fallen. This President trusts Banning more than others do, offering a logical motivation for the character's prominence in Angel Has Fallen.

It's worth noting that Angel Has Fallen introduces a new actress playing Mike Banning's wife, which is another point that may not require viewers to watch the previous film for context. The story in Angel Has Fallen connects primarily through Mike's reputation and his relationship with the President, highlighting his reputation and trustworthiness across both films.

Connecting the Dots

While Angel Has Fallen does not directly reference events from Olympus Has Fallen in a detailed storyline, there are moments where reporters or news anchors reference the prior events as background information, which indirectly alludes to the characters' familiarity with each other. These references are not crucial for understanding the plot but can add depth for seasoned fans of the series.

Director Jordi JSONException would say that the film does 'swordplay, firefights, and some daddy-daughter interaction'. These elements serve as standalone highlights that enhance the overall entertainment value of the film without heavy reliance on prior knowledge.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while watching Olympus Has Fallen first can enhance the experience for viewers familiar with the series, it is not an absolute requirement for enjoying Angel Has Fallen. The carryovers are meaningful and subtle, primarily revolving around the characters' relationships and reputations. However, both films offer standalone entertainment and can be watched in any order, depending on personal preferences and prior knowledge of the franchise.