2024 is bringing additions to many much-loved series, even a few that no-one was expecting. It can be hard to keep track of everything, so here’s what to expect as well as the best ways to prepare to watch the new films.
‘Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire’
Adding to a series that seems to just keep on giving, a part two of the 2021 ‘Godzilla vs. Kong’ film is set to be released in 2024. It is definitely not ideal to binge every Godzilla movie before 2024 considering there are currently over 30 films; however the modern era of Godzilla is a suitable spot to get up to date. Since 2014, Warner Bros has released three films that lead up to the release of the new film. Though, considering Kong also makes an appearance halfway through the series, it’s also a good idea to get to know him. The most logical order would be ‘Godzilla’ (2014), ‘Godzilla: King of the Monsters’ (2019),’ Kong: Skull Island’ (2017), ‘Godzilla vs. Kong’.
‘Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes’
With a series that began in 1968, it doesn’t show signs of stopping. ‘Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes’ marks the fourth instalment in the reboot series starting in 2011, making that as far back as you’d need to watch to be sufficiently up-to-date. The most relevant films in order would include; ‘Rise of the Planet of the Apes’, ‘Dawn of the Planet of the Apes’, and ‘War for the Planet of the Apes’. However, there is opportunity to follow as far back as you’d like, all the way to the 60s.
‘Ballerina’
As we have been presented with the conclusion to the ‘John Wick’ series this year, a new film has spawned from the same world, sitting somewhere between the events of the third and four ‘John Wick’ films. ‘Ballerina’ is an action-thriller film that follows a ballerina-assassin – Rooney – as she hunts those who killed her family. The film also promises appearances from Keanu Reeves as John Wick. While watching the ‘John Wick’ films may not be necessary, they will offer information into the laws and functioning of the world in which it takes place.
‘Furiosa’
Providing a prequel to the successful 2015 film ‘Mad Max: Fury Road’, ‘Furiosa’ digs into the early life of the main female protagonist by the same name. This series of car-enthused post-apocalyptic films grown from Australian soil are nothing short of extravagant when it comes to “what could I do to make a car cooler?” ‘Furiosa’ is directly related to ‘Mad Max: Fury Road’ therefore wouldn’t require any knowledge past that, but if it happens to peak your interest, the original trilogy is an excellent watch.
‘Joker: Folie a Deux’
2019 offered audiences a drama-thriller film dedicated to the story of one of the most well-known villains; the Joker. This film took on a different approach than what many audiences were expecting, making adjustments to what we believed to be the Joker’s origin story and making him the main character. The second addition to this film series finally sees the arrival of Harley Quinn, played by Lady Gaga. This series offers a different perspective to what we’ve come to expect from the ‘Batman’ franchise and manages to make it its own.
‘Deadpool 3’
After six years, the much-awaited addition is arriving for the ‘Deadpool ‘franchise, and this time we’re getting an appearance from Wade Wilson’s favourite person; Wolverine. With a cast including both Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman, this is bound to be a fan favourite. The ‘Deadpool’ series is not long, with only two prior films; however, as it is positioned within the ‘X-Men’ universe, it offers the opportunity to explore other avenues. Choosing to explore either the avenue of X-Men or Wolverine’s own trilogy are options for those with interest but Deadpool has proved its worth in standing on its own.
‘Kung Fu Panda 4’
This series is a DreamWorks favourite where we have been constantly reminded to never underestimate the panda. In a sequel no one expected, we will be reunited with the Dragon Warrior and the Furious Five, and have been promised the return of Jack Black (because let’s be honest it can’t be a Kung Fu Panda film without Jack’s iconic lingo). This release is the perfect excuse to watch the first three films and re-experience what is arguably one of DreamWorks’ best film series.
‘Sonic the Hedgehog 3’
With the first release in 2020, the ‘Sonic the Hedgehog’ franchise has done justice to the video game at its origins. With a strong cast light humour, and amazing visual effects, there is much to be loved about these films. 2022 saw the release of the second film, introducing two more iconic characters; Tails and Knuckles. We join on for the ride with this trio of somewhat-clueless but highly energetic aliens, and in late 2024, we are promised even more adventures. These are perfect family films with a little bit of something for everyone.
‘Inside Out 2’
‘Inside Out’ was a popular Pixar film that released in 2015 and tackled the complexities of emotions when dealing with change. We follow the inner workings inside the mind of a young girl named Riley who is attempting to adapt to her family’s relocation. Full of heartfelt moments, and a few pulled heartstrings, this film is receiving a second part almost 10 years later. In ‘Inside Out 2’, we will be following the now-teenage Riley and will be introduced to a new set of personified emotions.
‘Despicable Me 4’
The ‘Despicable Me’ franchise has led to the development Illumination’s mascot and one of the most recognisable cartoon figures of the 21st century; the Minions. The franchise has three original films, as well as two prequel films solely dedicated to the much-loved yellow characters. After the release of the second ‘Minions’ movie in 2022, which was met with mixed reviews, we are finally receiving another addition to the original series. This makes for the perfect opportunity for the whole family to enjoy re-watching the beloved animated series.
