The short answer is no, as of October 26, 2023, there is no official sequel or second “How It Ends” movie in development. While the ambiguous ending of the 2018 Netflix film left viewers craving more, there’s been no confirmation from Netflix, the writers, or the cast regarding a continuation of the story.
Understanding the Appeal of “How It Ends”
“How It Ends,” directed by David M. Rosenthal and written by Brooks McLaren, captured audiences with its gripping premise: a mysterious apocalyptic event forces a man (Theo James) to embark on a dangerous journey across a collapsing America to reunite with his pregnant fiancée (Kat Graham). The film’s success stemmed from its blend of action, suspense, and a touch of human drama, all wrapped within a post-apocalyptic setting. However, it was also heavily criticized for its pacing issues and its notoriously open ending, which arguably left more questions than answers. The lack of resolution fueled speculation and demand for a sequel, but so far, these hopes remain unfulfilled.
Why a Sequel Makes Sense (and Why It Doesn’t)
The ambiguity of “How It Ends” presents both an opportunity and a challenge for a potential sequel.
The Opportunity
- Untapped Potential: The initial film only scratched the surface of the apocalyptic event and its impact on society. A sequel could delve deeper into the cause of the disaster, the emergence of new social structures, and the struggles of survival in a devastated world.
- Character Development: The characters of Will and Samantha have room to grow and evolve. A sequel could explore their relationship dynamics, their coping mechanisms, and their roles in rebuilding a fractured society.
- Audience Demand: The film garnered a significant following, and many fans remain eager to see what happens next. The unresolved ending sparked countless theories and discussions, demonstrating the enduring interest in the story.
The Challenge
- Critical Reception: While popular, “How It Ends” received mixed reviews from critics, with some criticizing its pacing, plot holes, and ultimately, its unsatisfying ending. This could deter Netflix from investing in a sequel.
- Maintaining Momentum: The film was released in 2018. The longer the wait for a sequel, the more difficult it becomes to recapture the initial audience interest.
- Satisfying Fan Expectations: Any sequel would need to address the unresolved plot points and offer a compelling narrative that lives up to fan expectations, a task that could prove challenging given the diverse theories and opinions surrounding the original film.
Investigating Potential Leads
While there is no official announcement, it’s crucial to explore any potential hints or possibilities.
Public Statements
Neither the director, writers, nor cast members have made any definitive statements regarding a sequel. In interviews, they have acknowledged the open ending and the audience’s desire for more, but they have not confirmed any plans for a follow-up.
Netflix’s Strategy
Netflix has a track record of producing sequels and spin-offs for popular films and series. However, they are also strategic about their investments, considering factors such as critical reception, audience engagement, and production costs. The absence of a sequel announcement suggests that “How It Ends” may not have met the criteria for further investment.
Fan Campaigns
Despite the lack of official confirmation, dedicated fans have launched online campaigns and petitions advocating for a sequel. While these efforts demonstrate the audience’s passion for the story, they have not yet prompted any action from Netflix or the filmmakers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions related to the possibility of a “How It Ends” sequel:
FAQ 1: What happened at the end of “How It Ends”?
The film concludes with Will and Samantha driving through the apocalyptic landscape, approaching a large dust cloud. The ending is deliberately ambiguous, leaving the audience to speculate about the fate of the characters and the nature of the disaster. We don’t see the dust cloud clear, nor are we privy to the fate of Sam’s parents. The lack of closure is a major reason why fans want a sequel.
FAQ 2: Has Netflix commented on the possibility of a sequel?
No, Netflix has not issued any official statements confirming or denying the possibility of a “How It Ends” sequel. Their silence on the matter leaves the door open for speculation but offers no concrete evidence of a follow-up.
FAQ 3: Who would be involved in a sequel?
If a sequel were to be made, it is likely that Theo James and Kat Graham would reprise their roles as Will and Samantha. However, the involvement of other cast members, such as Forest Whitaker and Grace Dove, would depend on the narrative direction of the sequel. The director and writers would also need to be involved to maintain continuity with the original film.
FAQ 4: What could the plot of a sequel be?
A sequel could explore several potential plotlines, including:
- The origin of the apocalyptic event and its long-term consequences.
- The challenges of survival and rebuilding society in a devastated world.
- The emergence of new factions and conflicts in the post-apocalyptic landscape.
- The personal journeys of Will and Samantha as they navigate their relationship and their roles as parents in a chaotic environment.
FAQ 5: When could a sequel be released?
Given that there is no official announcement, it is impossible to predict a potential release date. Even if a sequel were to be greenlit today, it would likely take at least a year or two for production and post-production to be completed.
FAQ 6: Are there any fan theories about the ending?
Numerous fan theories attempt to explain the ambiguous ending of “How It Ends.” Some theories suggest that the dust cloud is a sign of an alien invasion, while others propose that it is a natural phenomenon caused by climate change or a volcanic eruption. Many believe the dust cloud hides a safe haven or another disaster zone, with no way of knowing which is behind it.
FAQ 7: Is there a “How It Ends” book?
“How It Ends” is based on an original screenplay and does not have a corresponding book. This distinguishes it from many other films that are adapted from existing literary works.
FAQ 8: What are some similar movies to “How It Ends” that I might enjoy?
If you enjoyed “How It Ends,” you might also like “The Road,” “The Book of Eli,” “Bird Box,” “A Quiet Place,” and “Cargo.” These films share similar themes of survival, post-apocalyptic landscapes, and the struggle to protect loved ones in the face of adversity.
FAQ 9: Could a different ending change the future of a sequel?
Absolutely. Netflix may decide to issue an alternate ending in the future, should the movie see enough resurgence in views. This is extremely unlikely, but if the alternate ending is well received, a sequel may be more enticing to the platform.
FAQ 10: Where can I watch “How It Ends”?
“How It Ends” is currently available to stream on Netflix.
FAQ 11: What does the ambiguous ending symbolize?
The ambiguous ending can be interpreted in various ways. Some view it as a reflection of the uncertainty and chaos of the apocalyptic event, while others see it as a commentary on the human capacity for hope and resilience in the face of adversity. Ultimately, the meaning of the ending is left to the interpretation of the individual viewer.
FAQ 12: What are the chances of a sequel actually happening?
The chances of a “How It Ends” sequel happening are currently slim. The lack of official confirmation from Netflix, coupled with the mixed critical reception of the original film, suggests that a follow-up is unlikely. However, the enduring fan interest and the untapped potential of the story mean that a sequel cannot be completely ruled out. It would likely require a significant shift in Netflix’s priorities or a renewed interest from the original filmmakers to make it a reality.