For numerous subscribers, Netflix’s lineup for July is set to appear quite recognizable. Amid the customary assortment of comedies, documentaries, and esteemed television this month, the platform is also capitalizing on the strength of legacy appeal with two prominent movie sequels: The Old Guard 2, which premieres tomorrow (July 2), and Happy Gilmore 2, arriving July 25. One taps into ‘90s nostalgia while the other resurrects a successful streaming phenomenon. Collectively, they demonstrate that Netflix’s summer offerings are not solely focused on fresh concepts — they also celebrate cherished classics with ample tales still to unfold.
Significant Netflix movie sequels arriving this month
Let’s kick off with the most significant attempt, pun intended.
In Happy Gilmore 2, Adam Sandler reprises his role as the hockey-loving golfer who made rage entertaining long before memes existed. The original Happy Gilmore (1996) has only increased in popularity over the years, finding renewed life with every new generation of audience. Now, nearly thirty years later, Netflix is wagering that there’s still fuel in the tank, and Sandler is joined by returning cast members along with some unexpected cameos — for a narrative that reportedly explores the theme of legacy. It essentially sounds like classic Sandler, refreshed for the Netflix era.
Meanwhile, The Old Guard 2 continues from where the 2020 film concluded and follows a group of immortal warriors led by Charlize Theron. The original film was a success for Netflix, attracting sufficient viewers to become one of the platform’s most-viewed titles upon its release. The sequel promises more of what fans cherished, from action-packed adventures around the globe to grand set pieces and an even richer mythology woven into the narrative. There’s also a new director this time around (Victoria Mahoney), which introduces a fresh creative perspective to a franchise I’ve previously described as Netflix’s equivalent to The Avengers.
With the streaming rivalry essentially a continual race these days, it makes perfect sense for Netflix to leverage intellectual properties that already possess a built-in audience. Sequels present a secure gamble, particularly when they feature familiar, bankable stars and the audience’s favorable sentiments tied to the originals. And for viewers inundated with an endless ocean of content, the familiarity of titles like Happy Gilmore or The Old Guard simplifies the decision to hit “play” considerably.
