This week emphasizes the fascinating world of intellectual property through three thrilling films, each part of enduring franchises. The selections range in scariness, making them ideal for horror enthusiasts. Our top choice is a direct continuation of a beloved zombie flick from a well-known dystopian series.
The second entry on the list debuted 25 years ago and stands in stark contrast to the current state of the racing franchise. Lastly, we have a legacy sequel to a classic teen horror film from the 1990s. All three films are available for streaming on Netflix U.S.
3
I Know What You Did Last Summer
Beware of the hook
The 1996 film Scream revived the slasher genre, paving the way for I Know What You Did Last Summer, written by Scream creator Kevin Williamson. In this tale, a hook-wielding fisherman hunts four teenagers who concealed a fatal incident from the previous summer. While it may be somewhat ludicrous, the film is a captivating slasher featuring a well-known cast that adopts a lighthearted tone. Such movies are a refreshing change.
Nearly three decades later, the series has returned with a legacy follow-up sharing the same name. In 2025’s I Know What You Did Last Summer, a new set of characters—Ava (Chase Sui Wonders), Danica (Madelyn Cline), Milo (Jonah Hauer-King), Stevie (Sarah Pidgeon), and Teddy (Tyriq Withers)—find themselves embroiled in a deadly cover-up after a tragic car accident. As the year unfolds, they are hunted by a new killer who knows their secret. To confront the Fisherman, they enlist the help of original survivors Julie James (Jennifer Love Hewitt) and Ray Bronson (Freddie Prinze Jr.).
This latest installment clearly aims to honor its predecessor while following a familiar storyline. Although some may see it as redundant, it aligns with what legacy sequels often do. Fans of the 1997 edition are likely to enjoy this new film, especially to witness Hewitt and Prinze reprising their roles that launched their careers.
2
The Fast and the Furious
Living life a quarter-mile at a time
I can’t conceal my enthusiasm for The Fast and the Furious franchise. Yes, I recognize that many argue the series has spiraled into absurdity, especially after its bewildering outer-space adventure. Nonetheless, the first seven films had an exhilarating momentum. With the franchise celebrating its 25th anniversary, it’s an opportune moment to revisit The Fast and the Furious.
The plot centers on LAPD officer Brian O’Connor (Paul Walker), who goes undercover to expose the gang responsible for stealing electronics from trucks, believed to be intertwined with the street-racing scene. He builds a friendship with Dominic Toretto (Vin Diesel), the charismatic leader of his crew. However, Brian must grapple with his loyalties as both a cop and a friend, culminating in a gripping internal conflict.
I genuinely miss the thrilling car chases and races that characterized the early films. It’s basically Point Break with fast cars, and that’s perfectly fine. The chemistry between Walker and Diesel is palpable, evident in their performances. I’m hopeful that Fast Forever might return to its roots and present a more grounded narrative akin to the original film.
1
28 Years Later: The Bone Temple
A gripping sequel
I was pleasantly surprised by the depth of emotion in 2025’s 28 Years Later. Given it’s about a viral outbreak leading to chaos, one might expect relentless violence, which certainly is present. However, the focus is more on human grief and loss, creating an unexpected and touching examination of mortality.
Less than a year later, 28 Years Later introduced its riveting sequel, The Bone Temple. Following his survival in the previous film, Spike (Alfie Williams) finds himself in the company of Sir Lord Jimmy Crystal (Jack O’Connell) and his deranged cult known as “the Fingers.” As Spike travels with them, Dr. Ian Kelson (Ralph Fiennes) conducts experiments on an infected Alpha leader named Samson (Chi Lewis-Parry), seeking potential breakthroughs.
This sequel is even more intense and graphic than its predecessor, delivering the thrills fans crave. While it may not win any accolades, Fiennes and O’Connell showcase remarkable performances, particularly O’Connell as he excels in villainous roles, further solidifying his impressive repertoire.
What else to watch this week?
If you enjoyed The X-Files, there’s exciting news. Chris Carter has revisited The X-Files: I Want to Believe, recutting it to include previously removed scenes, resulting in a more horror-centric experience. Additionally, I’ll be tuning into Prime Video for season 4 of Reacher.
