Ep 1. Sequels That Don't Suck

AMC Visionaries' Eli Roth's History of Horror is back for a third season, and the first episode delves into the topic of horror movie sequels that don't suck. Horror movies have a notorious reputation for producing an endless number of sequels that are often subpar or simply dreadful. But this episode takes a closer look at the few examples of horror sequels that have managed to surpass the original and become iconic classics in their own right.

Eli Roth chats with various horror filmmakers, actors, and experts about their own experiences with horror sequels. The episode features interviews with Richard Roundtree and Tony Todd, who both starred in iconic horror sequels, as well as horror director Rob Zombie, who is known for his unique approach to the genre.

The episode highlights some of the most successful horror sequels of all time, starting with James Cameron's 1986 film Aliens, which is a sequel to Ridley Scott's 1979 Alien. Aliens takes a completely opposite approach to the original, trading in the sense of isolation and terror for high-octane action and empowering heroines. Cameron's vision of a world where humans can fight back against the alien threat paved the way for action-horror classics like Predator and Terminator 2.

Another horror sequel that managed to surpass the original is Sam Raimi's 1987 film Evil Dead 2. While the first Evil Dead film was a low-budget, independent horror film, Evil Dead 2 fully embraces the cartoonish and over-the-top gore that becomes Raimi's signature style. The result is a film that's as hilarious as it is horrifying, and a template for dozens of horror-comedy flicks that followed.

One of the most beloved horror sequels of all time is Tobe Hooper's 1986 film The Texas Chainsaw Massacre 2. This film is a complete departure from the original, which is a gritty and realistic depiction of a crazed family living in America's heartland. In contrast, The Texas Chainsaw Massacre 2 is a wild and campy satire on 80s excess. The film is filled with absurd gore and cartoonish violence, but it's all done with such a sense of fun that the movie has become a cult classic.

The episode also highlights horror sequels that were made to continue the original story and expand on the mythology. Wes Craven's 1994 film Wes Craven's New Nightmare is a meta-commentary on the horror genre and takes place in the 'real world,' where the actors and creators of the original Nightmare on Elm Street film are hunted down by Freddy Krueger. The film is an excellent example of a sequel that manages to deconstruct the original while also creating something new and exciting.

The episode ends with a discussion on why so many horror sequels fail to live up to the original. It's often a case of trying to replicate the success of the first film instead of taking risks and doing something new. This episode showcases the few horror sequels that manage to break the mold and become their own successes.

Overall, the first episode of Eli Roth's History of Horror season 3 is a fascinating exploration of a subject that fans of the genre have been debating for decades. The episode is as engaging as it is informative, with a mix of interviews, clips from classic horror movies, and analysis from experts in the industry. Even those who aren't die-hard horror movie fans will find something to love in this episode, as it offers a unique perspective on the history of the film industry and what makes a great sequel in any genre.