Why Fans Love Sequels That Do Something Different Yet Often Complain When They Do

Have you ever noticed that movie fans are known to clamor for sequels to do something unique and different with a series, yet often express disappointment when a new installment deviates from the established traditions? This apparent paradox is deeply rooted in the delicate balance between adhering to the original series and introducing novel elements to the storyline.

Originality vs Familiarity: The Heart of the Matter

When a filmmaker opts to create a sequel, they walk a fine line between preserving the original essence and introducing unique, appealing elements to cater to new audiences. This tension often stems from the idea of originality. Fans generally appreciate sequels that build upon the established premise while also presenting fresh ideas. This balance is essential because:

Consistency: Fans of the original movie crave consistency—it's their comfort zone. A new element that is too radical can be jarring and may alienate these core audiences. Expandability: At the same time, the existing story and characters provide a rich foundation for telling new and engaging tales. Many viewers want to see the franchise expand, providing a broader narrative. Dual Appeal: Successful sequels strike a balance, blending comfort with novelty to appeal to a wider audience, including both existing fans and newcomers.

While the desire for something different is valid, it often leads to dissatisfaction when the new direction fails to maintain consistency with the original content. Here are a few examples of sequels that gained and lost popularity due to this delicate balance:

Examples of Successful and Unsuccessful Sequels

A number of blockbuster sequels have faced criticism for their deviation from the original films. For instance, Aliens (1986) and Aliens 3 (1992) offer a stark contrast. The first installment is hailed for its intense action and deep character development, while the third installment is generally considered a letdown. Similarly, The Godfather: Part II (1974) is celebrated for its ambitious scope and new characters, yet there are many who felt it was unnecessary and disrupted the established family saga.

The key issue lies in the filmmaker's ability to create a compelling narrative that integrates new elements without losing the core appeal. There are instances where complete originality works marvelously, such as Shrek 2 (2004), which brought a fresh perspective to the already beloved franchise. Conversely, Aliens 3 (1992) and Spider-Man 3 (2007) are often criticized for overshadowing the originality of the previous installments.

Fan Expectations and the Marriage Metaphor

Just as in a marriage, where the initial attraction is often based on certain qualities and experiences, fans form strong attachments to the characters and the universe of a movie series. For many, a sequel that significantly alters the established dynamics can feel like a betrayal. Here’s a comparison with a metaphorical marriage:

Imagine you've fallen in love with a person who has a certain way of looking at the world. You're drawn to their unique lifestyle, fashion sense, and even their way of laughing. After five years of marriage, one day you notice that your partner has drastically changed. They've gotten contact lenses, bought a motorcycle, and their worldview has become more cynical. Suddenly, the tingly laughter you once cherished is replaced by a different kind of humor. Would you still love this person?

This scenario illustrates the emotional attachment fans have to a movie series and the difficulty in accepting large-scale changes. The unexpected alteration can lead to the feeling that the character you loved has been replaced by someone else, often resulting in a loss of affection.

Conclusion

Sequels can be challenging to get right because they must satisfy both the original audience and the potential new wave of fans. The tension between what is familiar and what is new is a delicate one, and filmmakers who navigate this balance well are often rewarded. Fans, on the other hand, must accept that each sequel is a new chapter, unique in its own right. Whether a fan loves a sequel for doing something different or complains about it for the same reason, both perspectives are valuable, contributing to the ongoing discourse about the art and medium of film.