There are four films in the Gerard Butler Fallen franchise: Olympus Has Fallen, London Has Fallen, Angel Has Fallen, and Night Has Fallen. This action-packed series follows Secret Service agent Mike Banning as he thwarts terrorist attacks and protects the President of the United States.
The Core of the Series: Mike Banning and His Mission
The Fallen franchise has captivated audiences with its blend of intense action, political intrigue, and the charismatic portrayal of Mike Banning by Gerard Butler. The series centers around Banning’s dedication to his duty, his unwavering loyalty to the President, and his exceptional skills in combat and crisis management. Each film presents a new and escalating threat, testing Banning’s abilities and pushing him to his limits.
The Foundation: Olympus Has Fallen (2013)
The film that started it all, Olympus Has Fallen, depicted a daring attack on the White House, leaving the President (Aaron Eckhart) captured by North Korean terrorists. Mike Banning, disgraced after a previous security incident, becomes the last line of defense inside the heavily fortified building. His knowledge of the White House layout and his ruthless efficiency make him a formidable opponent.
Expanding the Scope: London Has Fallen (2016)
London Has Fallen shifts the action to the United Kingdom, where world leaders are targeted at the funeral of the British Prime Minister. This sequel amplifies the scale of the threat, showcasing a global conspiracy aiming to destabilize world order. Banning, alongside President Asher (still played by Aaron Eckhart), must navigate the chaotic streets of London to survive and prevent further carnage.
Shifting Allegiances: Angel Has Fallen (2019)
Angel Has Fallen introduces a new twist by framing Mike Banning for an assassination attempt on President Trumbull (Morgan Freeman, who takes over the role). Forced to go on the run, Banning must clear his name and uncover the real perpetrators behind the conspiracy. This installment delves deeper into Banning’s personal life and explores the psychological toll of his demanding profession.
The Future: Night Has Fallen (TBA)
The highly anticipated fourth installment, Night Has Fallen, is currently in development. While specific plot details remain under wraps, it promises to continue Mike Banning’s story, likely facing new threats and challenges to his skills and loyalty. Gerard Butler is confirmed to reprise his role, ensuring continuity with the established character and tone.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Fallen Movies
Here are some frequently asked questions about the Fallen movie franchise, providing further insight into the series and its characters:
What is the chronological order of the Fallen movies?
The chronological order is as follows:
- Olympus Has Fallen (2013)
- London Has Fallen (2016)
- Angel Has Fallen (2019)
- Night Has Fallen (TBA)
Who plays Mike Banning in the Fallen movies?
Gerard Butler portrays Mike Banning in all four Fallen films. His portrayal of the character has been widely praised for its intensity, physicality, and emotional depth.
Who plays the President in each of the Fallen movies?
- Olympus Has Fallen and London Has Fallen: Aaron Eckhart plays President Benjamin Asher.
- Angel Has Fallen: Morgan Freeman plays President Allan Trumbull (previously the Vice President).
- Night Has Fallen: Morgan Freeman is expected to return.
Are the Fallen movies based on a book?
No, the Fallen movies are not based on a book. They are original screenplays developed specifically for the film series.
What makes the Fallen movies different from other action films?
The Fallen movies distinguish themselves with their realistic portrayal of political and military scenarios, combined with intense action sequences and a compelling protagonist in Mike Banning. The focus on protecting the President and the nation resonates with audiences, making the series more than just mindless action.
What is the rating of each Fallen movie?
All three released Fallen movies (Olympus Has Fallen, London Has Fallen, and Angel Has Fallen) are rated R for strong violence and language throughout.
Is there a streaming service where I can watch all the Fallen movies?
The availability of the Fallen movies on streaming services varies by region and changes frequently. Check major streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and HBO Max in your area to see if they are currently available. They are also typically available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Google Play Movies, Apple TV, and Vudu.
Will there be more Fallen movies after Night Has Fallen?
While Night Has Fallen is currently the only confirmed future installment, the success of the franchise suggests that more Fallen movies are possible. The potential for new stories and threats to the President allows for the series to continue indefinitely. However, this will depend on the success of Night Has Fallen and the availability and interest of Gerard Butler and the other key personnel.
What is the main theme of the Fallen movie series?
The main themes of the Fallen movie series revolve around duty, loyalty, sacrifice, and the defense of democracy. Mike Banning’s unwavering commitment to protecting the President and the nation underscores these themes throughout the series.
Are the Fallen movies historically accurate?
While the Fallen movies draw inspiration from real-world political and military scenarios, they are primarily fictional works of entertainment. They take liberties with reality for dramatic effect and should not be considered historically accurate depictions of events.
Where were the Fallen movies filmed?
The Fallen movies were filmed in various locations, including:
- Olympus Has Fallen: Shreveport, Louisiana, USA.
- London Has Fallen: London, England; Sofia, Bulgaria.
- Angel Has Fallen: Virginia Water, Surrey, England; Sofia, Bulgaria.
What are some similar movie franchises to the Fallen series?
Movie franchises with similar themes of action, political intrigue, and protecting the President include the Jack Ryan series, the Air Force One movie, and the White House Down movie. These films share common elements of espionage, counter-terrorism, and high-stakes action.
Conclusion: The Enduring Appeal of the Fallen Series
The Fallen franchise, encompassing four films (with Night Has Fallen still to come), offers audiences a compelling blend of action, suspense, and political intrigue. Gerard Butler’s portrayal of Mike Banning has solidified the character as a modern-day action hero. While the future of the series beyond Night Has Fallen remains uncertain, the enduring appeal of the franchise suggests that audiences are eager for more adventures featuring Mike Banning’s unwavering dedication to protecting the President and the nation. The realistic, albeit dramatized, scenarios keep viewers engaged, making the Fallen series a noteworthy addition to the action movie genre.