No, there is currently no planned or confirmed sequel to the 2018 Netflix apocalyptic thriller, “How It Ends.” While the open-ended nature of the film sparked speculation about a continuation, no announcements regarding “How It Ends 2” have been made by Netflix, the filmmakers, or any of the cast members.
Decoding the Ending and Sequel Speculation
“How It Ends,” directed by David M. Rosenthal, leaves audiences with a distinctly ambiguous conclusion. The film follows Will Younger (Theo James) as he journeys across a chaotic and disaster-stricken landscape to reach his pregnant fiancée, Samantha Sutherland (Kat Graham), who is in Seattle with her estranged father, Tom Sutherland (Forest Whitaker). The ending shows Will and Samantha driving towards an uncertain future, evading the mysterious seismic events that are tearing the country apart. This lack of resolution naturally fuels speculation about a potential sequel.
The ambiguous nature of the ending was a deliberate choice. The filmmakers wanted to focus on the character dynamics and the emotional journey rather than providing concrete answers about the cause of the apocalypse or the ultimate fate of the characters. This allows viewers to interpret the ending in their own way, which is a common tactic used to generate post-viewing discussion and, potentially, interest in future installments.
However, ambiguous endings don’t always translate into sequels. Several factors influence whether a film gets a follow-up, including viewership numbers, critical reception, and the availability of the cast and crew. While “How It Ends” generated initial buzz on Netflix, it received mixed reviews, which likely impacted its chances of getting a sequel.
The Key Elements Fueling Sequel Rumors
Despite the absence of official announcements, certain elements contribute to the persistent rumors surrounding “How It Ends 2”:
- The Unresolved Plot: The origin of the seismic events and their impact on the world remain unexplained. The audience doesn’t know if other survivors exist or what challenges Will and Samantha will face in the future. This narrative vacuum invites speculation and fan theories.
- Character Potential: Will and Samantha’s relationship, strained by distance and circumstance, had potential for further development. The prospect of seeing them navigate a post-apocalyptic world as parents also adds an interesting dimension.
- Open-Ended Visuals: The final shot of the car driving into the unknown is a classic cinematic trope signaling the possibility of a continuation.
Addressing the “How It Ends 2” FAQs
The following are answers to frequently asked questions surrounding a potential sequel to “How It Ends.”
FAQ 1: Has Netflix Officially Announced “How It Ends 2”?
No. As of the current date, Netflix has made no official announcement regarding the development or release of “How It Ends 2.” All information currently available online regarding a sequel is speculative.
FAQ 2: What Are the Chances of a Sequel Happening?
Considering the mixed critical reception and the time that has passed since the original film’s release, the chances of a sequel are considered slim. However, the enduring popularity of post-apocalyptic narratives and the availability of the cast could potentially revive interest in the project.
FAQ 3: Have Any of the Cast Members Expressed Interest in a Sequel?
While specific statements confirming interest are scarce, some cast members have acknowledged the speculation and expressed openness to exploring the characters’ journeys further. However, this doesn’t guarantee a sequel.
FAQ 4: What Could the Plot of “How It Ends 2” Be About?
Potential plotlines could explore the origin of the seismic events, the formation of survivor communities, the challenges of raising a child in a post-apocalyptic world, and the ongoing struggle for survival against both environmental and human threats. Will and Samantha could encounter other survivors, both friendly and hostile, and face moral dilemmas as they navigate this new reality.
FAQ 5: Would Forest Whitaker Return for a Sequel?
Forest Whitaker’s character, Tom, plays a pivotal role in the first film. His return would depend on the storyline and his availability. Given his established career, securing his participation could be a factor in determining the sequel’s feasibility.
FAQ 6: What Were the Critical Reactions to “How It Ends”?
“How It Ends” received mixed to negative reviews. Critics generally praised the performances of the cast, particularly Forest Whitaker, but criticized the script, pacing, and reliance on familiar apocalyptic tropes. The lack of explanation for the cataclysmic events was also a common point of criticism.
FAQ 7: How Did “How It Ends” Perform on Netflix?
While Netflix doesn’t publicly release specific viewership numbers for most of its titles, “How It Ends” reportedly performed well enough to generate initial interest in a sequel. However, it’s unlikely to have achieved the level of success needed to guarantee a follow-up given the critical reception.
FAQ 8: What Other Movies Are Similar to “How It Ends”?
If you enjoyed “How It Ends,” you might also like “The Road,” “These Final Hours,” “Z for Zachariah,” “Bird Box,” and “The Book of Eli.” These films explore similar themes of survival, family, and the human spirit in the face of apocalyptic or post-apocalyptic scenarios.
FAQ 9: Could the “How It Ends” Story Be Continued in a Different Format, Such as a TV Series?
Yes, a TV series could provide a more expansive canvas to explore the “How It Ends” universe. A series could delve deeper into the origins of the cataclysm, introduce new characters and storylines, and offer a more nuanced exploration of the world’s new reality. However, no such plans have been announced.
FAQ 10: Who Were the Writers and Director of “How It Ends”?
The film was directed by David M. Rosenthal and written by Brooks McLaren.
FAQ 11: Where Was “How It Ends” Filmed?
“How It Ends” was primarily filmed in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada.
FAQ 12: If a Sequel Were to Happen, When Could We Expect Its Release?
Given that no sequel is currently in development, it’s impossible to predict a potential release date. Even if a sequel were greenlit today, it would likely take at least two to three years to complete production and post-production.
The Future is Unwritten
Ultimately, the future of “How It Ends” remains uncertain. While the ambiguous ending and the enduring appeal of apocalyptic narratives provide a glimmer of hope for a sequel, the lack of official announcements and the mixed critical reception of the original film suggest that “How It Ends 2” is unlikely. For now, fans are left to imagine the possibilities and ponder the meaning of the first film’s open-ended conclusion. The possibility of a sequel largely depends on Netflix’s willingness to revisit the property and the availability and interest of the key cast and crew. Until then, the answer to the question remains definitively: no sequel is currently planned.