When you can’t go forward with a film franchise… why not go back? That’s the thought of these six prequels that reverse the timeline to see how it all began:

Cube Zero (2004)

From our review: “What’s worse is that for every one answer this movie sort of gives for previous mysteries, it entangles itself up in even more, which moots the purpose of this film. Or at least boils it down into a less-clever thriller where people fight to stay alive and humanity is revealed at its best, worst and most pimply.”

Ginger Snaps Back: The Beginning (2004)

From our review: “It’s rare that they go the whole hog and actually set the whole story in the past, in a weird horror-historical combination. I think it works – although few of the characters seem particularly nineteenth-century.”

Romy and Michele: In the Beginning (2005)

From our review: “Picture a gaggle of loudly giggling girls, and then stretch that for about two hours with commercial breaks. That’s Romy and Michele: In The Beginning. None of the fun of the original, but five times as fatty for your mind.”

Tremors 4: The Legend Begins (2004)

From our review: “Part of the attraction is seeing what they can come up with to battle the graboids, from large-bore weapons to steam engines. Again, the western slant adds a refreshing flavor to what had become somewhat routine by now.”

Prey (2022)

From our review: “Prey may not be the absolute best entry in the franchise, but it’s easily in the top three — and the one boasting the best visual style and lead character.”

Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga (2024)

From our review: “This film, alongside Mad Max: Fury Road, is a masterclass in examining just how a franchise can be extended and continued without relying on simple audience nostalgia.”