Aside from a Ghostbusters: Afterlife sequel, Sony decided to lean on Spider-Man this year at CinemaCon, announcing Venom 3 and Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse. They even revealed some footage for the animated film, leaving plenty to break down.
The Venom franchise has been divisive among fans and critics, because of the strange and tame approach. This was especially noticeable with Carnage, similar to PG-13 horror films losing their edge.
However, many continue to enjoy the quirky comedy and action, resulting in surprising box office numbers. It seems that Tom Hardy’s performances have become the backbone of Sony’s IP. But after Riot and Carnage, fans may need more than another symbiote vs. symbiote sequel.
The relationship between Sony and the MCU remains quite messy, as they erased Spider-Man references in Morbius, and the anti-climactic “crossover” with the MCU was basically a retcon, avoiding any real interaction.
On the animated side, Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse was a surprise hit, thanks to its clear understanding of Spider-Man and dazzling visuals. So, it’ll be interesting to see if this was lightning in a bottle, or if the sequel can muster the same creativity, wit, and emotional purpose.
Sony revealed new footage for Across the Spider-Verse, which focuses on Gwen Stacy in the opening of the film. Her father, a policeman, is on the hunt for Spider-Woman after the death of Peter Parker. For most, exploring more about Gwen Stacy absolutely justifies the sequel’s existence.
Ghostbusters: Afterlife sequel announced
After the failed 2016 reboot, Ghostbusters: Afterlife has officially revived the franchise, and will be receiving a sequel.
The 2021 film had a mixed reception, as it mainly rehashed the plot of the original. Others were displeased with the amount of fan service. This is similar to problems that Star Wars fans had with Force Awakens. So, let’s hope that Afterlife finds its own path and aims for more creativity.
Fortunately, the emotional core of Ghostbusters: Afterlife is all about honoring Egon, and the actor Harold Ramis. For many, the movie successfully handled the Egon character, by confronting themes about grief and loss head-on.
Also, Mckenna Grace carries Egon’s torch with uncanny skill, just quirky and charming enough. Sadly, Finn Wolfhard of Stranger Things fame was basically cast aside.
The sequel needs to flesh out the supporting cast, and fans are clamoring for more runtime with the original cast members. But the emotional hook of Afterlife is a great place to begin. The sequel is set for either a massive hit, or an enormous let-down.
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