10 Highly Anticipated Superhero Movie Sequels We Still Hope to See

Hollywood has seen a surge in the popularity of legacy sequels, a trend that both Marvel and DC should take advantage of. These sequels, which breathe new life into classic franchises, have demonstrated their effectiveness, particularly within the horror genre. As the multiverse concept becomes a cornerstone of superhero cinema, there is ample opportunity to revive cherished superhero films, whether by reuniting nostalgic casts or expanding beloved stories. Such projects could ignite excitement among audiences and creators alike.

Legacy sequels are essentially continuations of well-loved stories, often set decades after the original material while sometimes disregarding less popular sequels. Successful examples include “Halloween”and “Top Gun: Maverick.”These films merge nostalgia with contemporary storytelling, revitalizing interest in established franchises while appealing to modern audiences. Superhero movies are uniquely positioned to harness this trend, allowing writers and directors to revisit key moments in superhero history without disrupting established cinematic universes.

10 Tim Burton’s Batman 3

A Legacy Sequel to Batman Returns

Tim Burton’s unique interpretation of Batman in the late 1980s and early 1990s transformed the superhero genre. Following “Batman Returns,”Burton’s vision for a third film was overshadowed by the more family-friendly “Batman Forever.”A potential legacy sequel could deliberately bypass the Schumacher films, allowing Michael Keaton’s Batman to return under Burton’s direction. Both Danny DeVito (Penguin) and Michelle Pfeiffer (Catwoman) are keen to reprise their roles, setting the stage for an intriguing reunion.

With Keaton’s recent appearance in “The Flash,”interest in revisiting his version of Batman has rekindled. A third Burton-directed installment could explore Bruce Wayne’s aging heroism and his fight to protect Gotham from an encroaching darkness. Following the unresolved threads from “Batman Returns,”this imaginary sequel could reunite iconic characters and delve into the moral complexity of heroism.

9 Tobey Maguire’s Spider-Man 4

Sequel to Sam Raimi’s Spider-Man Trilogy

Sam Raimi’s Spider-Man trilogy is widely celebrated among fans, and Tobey Maguire’s return in “Spider-Man: No Way Home”significantly reignited passion for his portrayal. A fourth film could depict an evolved Peter Parker, stepping into a mentor role and reflecting on his legacy. This narrative could elegantly continue from his last appearance and deepen his character’s emotional journey.

This sequel has the potential to focus on Peter’s struggles and sacrifices, especially after confronting his past in “No Way Home.”By weaving Mary Jane into this narrative and exploring their attempt to navigate adulthood amid chaos, the film could establish a rich emotional core while addressing themes of redemption and responsibility.

8 The Amazing Spider-Man 3

A Third Film for Andrew Garfield’s Spider-Man

Andrew Garfield’s portrayal of Spider-Man gained renewed appreciation after “Spider-Man: No Way Home,”showcasing his potential for a third installment. This film could finally address unresolved narratives from “The Amazing Spider-Man 2,”particularly Peter Parker’s guilt following Gwen Stacy’s death and his path to redemption, potentially introducing new faces or revisiting familiar ones.

Additionally, a fresh narrative arc could incorporate elements from the wider Marvel multiverse, giving Garfield’s Spider-Man the chance to interact with characters from Sony’s Spider-Man Universe, such as Venom. This crossover could serve to redeem prior cinematic missteps and offer fans the closure and adventure they seek.

7 Wesley Snipes’ Blade 4

A Follow-Up to Blade: Trinity

The Blade trilogy was instrumental in shaping the modern superhero landscape, thanks to Wesley Snipes’ compelling portrayal. Despite the series’ uneven trajectory, his recent cameo in “Deadpool & Wolverine”reignited interest. A legacy sequel could reintroduce Blade as he confronts a new vampire threat, taking advantage of his older, wiser character and establishing new generational dynamics.

This film could maintain a darker tone reminiscent of the original Blade, appealing to viewers eager for mature superhero narratives. A storyline featuring Blade alongside a younger partner could not only highlight cross-generational mentorship but also introduce new layers to an enduring character.

6 The Dark Knight 4

Exploring the Legacy of Nolan’s Batman Trilogy

Christopher Nolan’s celebrated Dark Knight trilogy raised the bar for superhero storytelling. With Bruce Wayne’s retirement at the end of “The Dark Knight Rises,”the potential for a follow-up centered on Joseph Gordon-Levitt’s John Blake could seamlessly continue the narrative. If Nolan were to direct, Bale has expressed willingness to return as Batman, exploring themes of legacy and the evolution of heroism.

A sequel exploring Blake’s struggles under Bruce’s mentorship could reengage audience themes of familial legacy, moral dilemmas, and the weight of responsibility. Reimagining this iconic universe promises to draw both returning fans and newcomers into its gripping narrative.

5 Ben Affleck’s Batman Film

A Unique Take on Batman in DCU Elseworlds

Prior to the DCU reboot, Ben Affleck had plans for a solo Batman film, featuring a gritty narrative focused on Deathstroke. This potential project could dive deep into the psychological challenges faced by Batman as he navigates his enemies and complex relationships within Arkham Asylum.

As part of DC’s Elseworlds initiative, this film could stand independently, providing a robust exploration of Affleck’s Batman while reintroducing Joe Manganiello’s Deathstroke as a formidable antagonist. The multiverse approach could enable this project to coexist alongside current DC offerings, generating excitement for fans.

4 The X-Men 4

Resurrecting the Original X-Men Team

The original X-Men trilogy concluded with “The Last Stand,”which received mixed reviews. However, following the timeline reset in “Days of Future Past,”the door is wide open for a sequel featuring the beloved original cast. Hugh Jackman, Halle Berry, and Ian McKellen have shown interest in reprising their iconic roles as they navigate a post-apocalyptic world, attempting to rebuild their community.

This fourth installment could blend nostalgia with a fresh perspective, focusing on themes of survival and legacy while integrating new mutants into the storyline. Scrutinizing contemporary societal issues through the lens of the superhero community remains a potent narrative tool.

3 The Incredible Hulk 2

Reintroducing Hulk’s Characters and Storylines

A sequel to “The Incredible Hulk,”possibly starring Mark Ruffalo, could harness nostalgia while exploring the impact of Hulk’s transformation on characters like Betty Ross and Samuel Sterns. This approach could pave the way for a refreshing tone that distinguishes itself from the current MCU offerings.

A multiverse element could introduce a confrontation between the original Hulk and an alternate version of himself, showcasing the character’s internal battles and moral complexities. This exploration could captivate audiences craving depth alongside superhero action.

2 Mystery Men 2

Revisiting the Misfit Heroes

“Mystery Men”offered a unique satirical take on the superhero genre. Although it underperformed initially, its cult following endures, making a sequel a tantalizing prospect. By exploring how these misfit heroes adapt to a landscape dominated by contemporary superhero films, “Mystery Men 2″could resonate with fans old and new.

Bringing back the original cast, including Ben Stiller and William H. Macy, would maintain the comedic spirit while engaging with modern themes. The plot could focus on these characters combating a flashier yet less genuine team of heroes, offering a delightful commentary on creativity versus commercialization in the superhero space.

1 Constantine 2

A Grizzled Return for Keanu Reeves’ John Constantine

Keanu Reeves’ “Constantine”remains a standout film, blending horror with comic book action. Given Reeves’ enduring allure and the film’s cult appeal, there is a significant desire for a sequel. “Constantine 2″could delve into an older, more conflicted John Constantine as he navigates celestial battles while confronting his fraught relationship with the afterlife.

This envisioned sequel could deepen the exploration of Constantine’s moral ambiguity while leveraging modern effects and narratives, establishing the franchise as a significant entry within the supernatural genre. The stakes could be raised by introducing a celestial war impacting Earth, forcing Constantine to reconcile personal desires against greater responsibilities. Indeed, “Constantine 2″stands as one of the most exhilarating prospects among superhero legacy sequels.