This week is all about expanding universes and continuing popular stories, with a host of sequels and spin-offs headlining the new streaming releases. Fans of established franchises are in for a treat, as the worlds of John Wick, Karate Kid, and M3GAN all grow with exciting new installments. These, along with two compelling original films, make for a blockbuster week at home.
The most anticipated spin-off is undoubtedly Ballerina, which lands on Starz on September 25. Set in the high-stakes world of assassins, this film follows a new protagonist played by Ana de Armas as she seeks vengeance. It successfully captures the tone and action of the John Wick series, even featuring a cameo from Keanu Reeves, while carving out its own unique identity.
Another beloved franchise gets a major update with Karate Kid: Legends, premiering September 27 on Netflix. This sequel merges the timelines of the original movies and the 2010 remake by having Ralph Macchio’s Daniel LaRusso and Jackie Chan’s Mr. Han team up. Their combined mentorship of a new student creates a powerful story that honors the past while building an exciting future.
The sequel to a modern horror classic, M3GAN 2.0, arrives on Peacock. The film takes a bold new direction by pitting the titular AI doll against a new, more dangerous military android named AMELIA. Gemma (Allison Williams) must reactivate M3GAN, turning her into an unlikely hero in this action-heavy follow-up that explores new facets of artificial intelligence.
Beyond the sequels and spin-offs, Hulu offers The Surfer on September 25, a standalone psychological thriller with a riveting performance from Nicolas Cage. And Apple TV+ introduces a new world in All of You on September 26, a science fiction romance about two best friends, promising a fresh and original story for viewers seeking something new.