5 More Horror Films That Should Have Launched a Franchise

Tyler Doupe' |

Apr 28, 2022

Horror films that should have launched a franchise

When a horror film is profitable and well-liked by fans, a sequel seems like a foregone conclusion. But not every feature that strikes a chord with viewers winds up getting the follow-up treatment. Some would-be sequels get trapped in development hell. While others franchise-worthy offerings don’t even make it that far.

Whatever the reason may be, these five films have yet to receive the sequel treatment. However, I have faith that each would work well as the inaugural entry of a franchise.

Previously, we brought you ten (different) standalone films we wish had received the sequel treatment. If you missed that post, be sure to take a look right here.

***The* *House on Sorority Row***

This slasher set in the collegiate Greek system serves up a noteworthy antagonist whose mere existence and status as the killer isn’t fully revealed until late into the film’s runtime. A sequel would have the chance to hit the ground running, with the identity of the killer already established. Perhaps a follow-up effort would see a new batch of coeds moving into the house from the previous film, only to realize that a vengeful killer stalks the halls in an attempt to avenge his late mother.

I find it particularly surprising that this picture didn’t kick off a franchise. It was made for less than half-a-million and grossed more than $10 million during its theatrical bow. With returns like that, a follow up effort should have been a sure thing.

While the picture has yet to spawn a sequel, the property was loosely rebooted as Sorority Row in 2009.

Drag Me to Hell

What makes Drag Me to Hell such a logical choice for the follow up treatment is that none of the characters necessarily need to return to carry on the narrative. And since orchestrating the return of previous cast members can be a challenge, that means one less hoop to jump through. Accordingly, the sequel could open with a new lead character finding themselves cursed by someone they have displeased. And the possibilities are wide open from there. Since the curse is the antagonist, more so than any particular character, this concept has plenty of mileage left and plenty of potential scenarios to explore.

Drag Me to Hell made slightly more than three times its $30 million dollar budget back during its theatrical bow. And a follow-up could easily replicate that success. It would be fantastic to see Sam Raimi return to helm, or possibly handpick an upcoming filmmaker to pass the torch to, like he did when he tapped Fede Alvarez to helm the Evil Dead remake.

My Bloody Valentine

Like Sorority Row, My Bloody Valentine did receive the reboot treatment but never actually spawned a franchise. This slasher made back more than twice its estimated budget of $2.3 million and remains a seasonal favorite amongst fans of the stalk-and-slash genre.

The flick leaves off with the killer still at large. So, it wouldn’t have been a big stretch to bring him back for a second round. The mines are a great setting for a slasher film. The dark tunnels are ominous and haunting, lending themselves quite naturally to some harrowing chase sequences. I only wish a sequel had gotten off the ground so the property’s franchise potential could have been realized.

Dead Silence

Dead Silence is easily James Wan’s most underrated effort. While the production was hindered by a certain amount studio interference, the flick still sets up a fascinating story and delivers a compelling antagonist in Mary Shaw. It would be a delight to see James Wan and his longtime collaborator Leigh Whannell return to the property with more creative control and spin another dark and harrowing tale of sinister puppetry. As unlikely as that is at this point, I have yet to give up hope.

This picture recouped its budget during its theatrical exhibition and went on to gain cult classic status after its home video release. Accordingly, I would argue that the film has a built-in audience for a second outing.

Zombeavers

Zombeavers received a very small theatrical bow before landing on home video, where it really found its niche. This raucous horror-comedy served up plenty of laughs and a hefty helping of gore. The concept of zombie-beavers is utterly ridiculous. But director and cowriter Jordan Rubin wisely recognized that. Rubin injects the ridiculous setup with razor-sharp wit, frequently taking care to remind the audience that he is in on the joke.

A sequel to this horror film might follow a new group of friends as they run afoul of the titular antagonists, with hilarity sure to ensue. There is still plenty of milage left in this outrageous premise and I, for one, would jump at the chance for a repeat visit to the land of the Zombeavers.