Netflix Sci-Fi Comedy Sequel Fans Love Even More Than The Original

By Douglas Helm | Published

The Back to the Future trilogy is perhaps one of the most consistent trilogies of all time. While many franchises fall prey to the sequel failing to live up to the original, that is far from the case with the beloved Back to the Future Part II. And you can relive this perfect sci-fi sequel on Netflix right now.

We’ve Gotta Go Back

Back to the Future Part II saw Robert Zemeckis return to direct the follow-up to the instant classic that was Back to the Future. An unenviable task, to be sure, but Zemeckis and screenwriter Bob Gale managed to pull it off with aplomb. Of course, it helped that the dynamic duo of Michael J. Fox as Marty McFly and Christopher Llyod as Doc Brown returned, building off the tease that happened at the end of the first film.

The Cast Turnover

Back to the Future Part II follows Marty and Doc as they travel from 1985 to 2015 to save Marty’s future son, only to find their own timeline ruined after Biff Tannen (Thomas L. Wilson) steals their time machine to become one of the richest and most powerful men in the world. Lea Thompson also returns as Marty’s mom, Lorraine, while Elisabeth Shue replaces Claudia Wells, and Jeffrey Weissman replaces Crispin Glover from the first film.

The time-travel shenanigans and twisty script make for an incredible ride, and the film keeps you absolutely entertained throughout.

A Massive Success

Back to the Future II, as you might expect for a sequel to one of the greatest sci-fi comedies of all time, was a big success at the box office with a $381.1 million haul. The surprising thing is that while reviews were generally positive at the time, the reaction from critics was a bit tepid, and many felt it didn’t live up to the original. It’s safe to say that attitudes have changed over time, as the sequel builds on many of the elements that make the original great.

Iconic Moments In The Sequel

Of course, the absolute iconic status and freshness of the first Back to the Future probably made Back to the Future II seem not quite as bold as the first film. However, Back to the Future II has become a cultural icon in its own right, introducing things like the hoverboard and Marty McFly’s self-lacing Nike shoes. Nike ended up building off this cultural touchstone by actually releasing the shoe later on.

One Of The Greatest Comedy Sequels Of All Time

Whether you think Back to the Future or Back to the Future Part II is better is a matter of personal opinion, but it’s hard to think of a better one-two punch when it comes to sci-fi comedies. Back to the Future Part III is probably the weakest link in the trilogy, but it still brings things to a satisfying conclusion.

It’s fair to say that not every trilogy can stay consistent all the way through and stick the landing, but starting a Back to the Future movie marathon definitely won’t be a decision you regret.

Fortunately, Netflix has you covered with the whole trilogy. But if you’re only in the mood to watch one, Back to the Future Part II wouldn’t be a bad choice. Head over to Netflix to stream it now.