When a movie becomes a massive hit, it often gets a sequel. However, not all sequels live up to the original, and some completely destroy the legacy of their predecessors. Here’s a look at some of the worst movie sequels ever made, which failed both critically and commercially.
“Superbabies: Baby Geniuses 2” (2004)
This bizarre follow-up to Baby Geniuses is universally panned, earning a rare 0% on Rotten Tomatoes. With a nonsensical plot and unfunny jokes, it remains one of the worst-rated movies of all time.
“Speed 2: Cruise Control” (1997)
The original Speed was an action-packed thrill ride, but the sequel lost all momentum—literally. Without Keanu Reeves and set on a slow-moving cruise ship, Speed 2 is a huge disappointment that left fans shaking their heads.
“Jaws: The Revenge” (1987)
Despite the cultural significance of the original Jaws, this fourth installment is infamous for its absurd plot, featuring a vengeful shark that somehow tracks down members of the Brody family.
“Highlander II: The Quickening” (1991)
The first Highlander movie has a cult following, but the sequel is a convoluted mess. By mixing sci-fi elements into the immortal sword-fighting narrative, it confused fans and became one of the most notorious sequels ever.
“Batman & Robin” (1997)
Infamous for its over-the-top performances, gaudy costumes, and cringe-inducing dialogue, this sequel nearly buried the Batman franchise before Christopher Nolan revived it years later with Batman Begins.
“The Crow: Wicked Prayer” (2005)
A sequel that no one asked for, The Crow: Wicked Prayer was an incoherent mess with terrible performances and writing. It tainted the memory of the cult classic original The Crow.
“Son of the Mask” (2005)
The original Mask starring Jim Carrey was a huge success, but Son of the Mask felt like a cheap imitation. Without Carrey, the film’s humor fell flat, and it became one of the most criticized family movies of the 2000s.
“Book of Shadows: Blair Witch 2” (2000)
Riding on the success of the groundbreaking Blair Witch Project, this sequel abandoned the found-footage style for a more traditional narrative. The result was a confusing, critically panned horror movie that lacked the eerie charm of the original.
“Police Academy: Mission to Moscow” (1994)
By the time Police Academy hit its seventh installment, the jokes had run their course. Mission to Moscow was so poorly received that it effectively killed the franchise.
“RoboCop 3” (1993)
RoboCop 3 tried to continue the satirical brilliance of the original, but without the biting social commentary, it became a watered-down, PG-13 shell of its predecessor, disappointing fans of the iconic action series.
These sequels serve as reminders that sometimes it’s better to leave a classic film untouched. Whether due to poor direction, bad casting, or misguided stories, these movies fell far short of the mark, leaving audiences questioning why they were ever made.
