‘25-‘26 Sequels

Sequels naturally get a bad rep. But then again, so do women in their forties. I’m not there yet but unless something happens, it’s coming for me. Like it or not.

In the meantime, here’s my take on some big sequels from the past year:

Wicked 2

and

Devil Wears Prada 2

Let’s start with chronological order, though there’s nothing chronological about me.

So, Wicked 2. Modern day. I loved the play. But I also love Ariana Grande. She was epic in both, but some say she salvaged the sequel.

I disagree. What do you expect from Cynthia Erivo? We can’t all be pop singing actresses from age 11. I think her voice perfectly fits the part. Let’s stop comparing her to the Broadway version? Or even Ariana.

I judge a soundtrack based on whether I want to keep listening to it post movie. This was one of them. Some of the songs still in my head are purely Cynthia’s. So thank you. We are lucky they befriended each other as deeply as they did. Cast member chemistry does matter (see Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni if you’re not convinced).

Okay, on to Devil Wears Prada. I can only imagine how much sequels have to cut to be good. So I’ll chomp on that bit too, for this spontaneous blog.

I’ve watched the movie twice. It is most exciting the first time, if you can stay awake. It has a slight lull in the middle. But not in a bad way. It’s modern. Frank. Good for the fans. It’s not the first one, but everyone is just as attractive, which is a great message to send.

Except for the love interest. He’s less annoying but also less attractive. Perhaps they thought his Australian accent would cover that up. Or the point was that this time he’s background material. If that’s the case, great casting. Otherwise…

A star studded movie, a must-see watch. But it’s not a thriller. And if you’re trying to make it in the city, you might get the slightest bit jealous. How does Anne Hathaway’s character keep slithering her way to the top while coming across as a next-door neighbor kind of girl? I’d like to relate, as an aspiring writer, but till I publish a trilogy it seems out of reach.

Meryl’s a godsend, as always. So is Tucci, and Blunt. I think the movie is worth watching for Anne and Emily’s friendship to be dissected alone.  And there’s a lot of subtle hints for the first movie fans.

MOST importantly, I think the movie gets that while we live in an AI, fast-paced world, we’re also sick of it. We crave the humanity and finesse that tradition carries. I desperately hope that message still gets across underneath the inevitable tabloids and propaganda that will surely follow.

Till next time…