Reviving the Dead: 9 Franchises That Made a Comeback
A look at movie franchises that were brought back from the grave and found new life through reboots, sequels, and prequels.
Jurassic World (2015)
The Jurassic Park franchise, known for its iconic dinosaurs and thrilling adventures, made a triumphant return to the big screen in 2015 with the release of Jurassic World. After a long hiatus following Jurassic Park III, the franchise roared back to life with a fresh take on the prehistoric world. The success of Jurassic World, grossing over $1.6 billion worldwide, signaled the resurgence of the beloved dinosaur franchise.
Godzilla walks in front of a bridge with the sun past the horizon in Godzilla (2014)
The Force Awakens (2015)
The Star Wars saga made a monumental comeback with The Force Awakens in 2015, reigniting the timeless battle between the light and dark sides of the Force. This sequel to the original trilogy surpassed $2 billion at the box office and paved the way for a new era of Star Wars storytelling, including acclaimed sequels and captivating spin-offs on Disney+. The Force Awakens proved that a galaxy far, far away can always find its way back to the hearts of fans.
Daisy Ridley as Rey on Jakku in Star Wars Episode VII The Force Awakens
Scream (2022)
The iconic Scream franchise returned with a blood-curdling scream in 2022, reviving the slasher series with a fresh take on terror and suspense. The chilling success of the Scream reboot, grossing $138 million worldwide, solidified its resurrection and set the stage for a new generation of spine-tingling thrills. With a compelling new cast and a nod to the original, Scream 2022 slashed its way back into the spotlight.
The Ghostface killer in a hospital in Scream 2022
Godzilla (2014)
The legendary Godzilla franchise roared back to life in 2014, captivating audiences with its colossal presence and awe-inspiring battles. After a hiatus, the 2014 Godzilla film reignited the monster's legacy, grossing an impressive $538 million worldwide and setting the stage for the thrilling MonsterVerse. Godzilla's return proved that some legends never die, they simply rise again.
The Ballad Of Songbirds & Snakes (2023)
The Hunger Games franchise returned to the big screen with The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes in 2023, delving into the captivating prequel story of President Snow. Despite initial challenges, the prequel reignited the hunger for more thrilling Hunger Games tales, breaking records and leaving a lasting impression. The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes proved that the odds are always in the franchise's favor.
Lucy Gray Baird (Rachel Zegler) is bowing at the reaping in Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes
The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey (2012)
The enchanting world of Middle-earth returned with The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey in 2012, embarking on a new quest and reigniting the magic of the beloved Lord of the Rings franchise. Despite the passage of time, the film's success at the box office, crossing the billion-dollar mark, paved the way for a triumphant return to the breathtaking landscapes and epic adventures of Middle-earth.
Bilbo looking to the distance in Hobbit Unexpected Journey
Creed (2015)
The Rocky franchise roared back into the ring with Creed in 2015, passing the torch to a new generation while preserving the spirit of the iconic underdog story. Creed's success, both critically and commercially, proved that the heart of the Rocky franchise beats on, inspiring new chapters and celebrating the enduring legacy of an unforgettable champion.
Rocky Balboa (Sylvester Stallone) and Adonis Creed (Michael B. Jordan) in Creed (2015).
Batman Begins (2005)
The Dark Knight rose from the shadows once more with Batman Begins in 2005, breathing new life into the iconic caped crusader and setting the stage for a triumphant trilogy. Christopher Nolan's visionary take on the Dark Knight captivated audiences and revitalized the Batman franchise, proving that Gotham's guardian will always rise to protect his city.
Batman (Christian Bale) stands stoically inside a warehouse as he prepares to fight some thugs in Batman Begins
Star Trek (2009)
The Star Trek franchise beamed back to the big screen with a stellar revival in 2009, igniting the spirit of exploration and boldly going where no one had gone before. The success of the reboot paved the way for new adventures in the final frontier, proving that the legacy of Star Trek continues to inspire and captivate audiences across the galaxy.
Star Trek 2009 Dr McCoy Karl Urban
