June 2014 Movie Prequel Guide: A Checklist

As we flipped the calendar from May to June earlier this week, we officially hit summer! You’d think this week’s Prequel Guide would be previewing all of the big blockbuster sequels. This surely is the case for Transformers: Age of Extinction (and a case can be made for 22 Jump Street and How to Train Your Dragon 2), but this month is unusually low on sequels (or big sequels, I should say).

However, I do have the reading homework for Edge of Tomorrow, The Fault In Our Stars, and Snowpiercer as well as what to do to get caught up in time for Jersey Boys and Think Like a Man Too.

As always, each movie is broken up into Essential, Useful, and Extra subcategories.

Useful:
“All You Need is Kill” by Hiroshi Sakurazaka – Originally, Edge of Tomorrow was named after the “light novel” (first time I’ve heard this term) “All You Need is Kill.” The Japanese story is the basis for Doug Liman’s (The Bourne Identity) film, so I’d try to get your hands on it if you get a chance.

Useful:
“The Fault In Our Stars” by John Green – John Green’s critically-acclaimed novel is the basis for the movie of the same name that releases very soon. I’ve heard good (but sad) things about the novel. However, I suggest reading the book because it is considered one of the 100 books you should read according to Amazon.

Essential:
21 Jump Street – As with any sequel, I’d highly suggest watching the original. 21 Jump Street was a surprise hit a few years back, so I’m actually looking forward to this sequel.

Useful:
21 Jump Street TV Series – Some still don’t know that 22 and 21 Jump Street are based on the 1987 TV series also titled 21 Jump Street (that played 103 episodes on FOX). If you haven’t seen the TV show, you might want to because I assume they’ll be some more cameos and nods towards the original source.

Essential:
How to Train Your Dragon – Dean DeBlois’ first film in the franchise (simply titled How to Train Your Dragon) was a smash-hit when it released. Whether you are watching it for the first time or rewatching it, I’d suggest getting around to it by the 13th. By the way, the sequel is the second in a planned trilogy.

Useful:
“How to Train Your Dragon” Children Books – Cassandra Cowell started the Dragon franchise off with a series of 12 children books. If you have the time, you could power through these as well.

Extra:
Video Games – There is a Wii video game you could check out if you really wanted the full experience. There is also a new video game in development, although you can’t play it quite yet (it should release June 10th).

Useful:
“The Jersey Boys” by Bob Guadio – Clint Eastwood’s musical biography is based on The Four Seasons and the jukebox musical “The Jersey Boys.” If you’ve seen the musical, you’ll have a hand-up on the film.

Extra:
The Four Seasons discography – Since the movie is based on the band The Four Seasons, I’d listen to some of their music to tune up for the release.

Essential:
Think Like A Man – Tim Story’s next film, Think Like a Man Too, is a sequel to 2012’s comedy Think Like a Man. Therefore, you should probably watch that one first (a bunch of the cast is back for the sequel, too).

Useful:
“Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Man” by Steve Harvey – Comedian Steve Harvey wrote the novel that sparked the first film. If you get a chance, try reading this one.

Useful:
“La Transperceneige” by Jacques Lob, Benjamin Legrand, and Jean-Marc Rochette – Bong Joon-ho’s (Mother) newest film is based on a French post-apocalyptic graphic novel that sounds pretty interesting. Check it out if you can.

Essential:
The Transformers Film Franchise – I don’t know if any other Transformers movies are necessarily “essential”; however, I’d like to think Michael Bay’s movies connect in some way. However, Age of Extinction seems like a jumping off point for a new franchise (since it switches up the cast).

Extra:
Animated Films – If you really want the full Transformers experience, check out the three animated films…

TV Series – …and the 19 animated series…

Video Games – …and the nearly 30 video games.

There you have it, eight films on this month’s Prequel Guide. Get going on the original films while the month is young!

Follow me on Twitter @jmacle