1. The Mummy Returns (2001)
Ah, The Mummy Returns, my personal favorite of them all. Fun fact: I can actually quote this entire movie without it being on and entertain myself whenever.
Where do I even begin? For starters, it gave us the delightful opportunity to reunite with our beloved characters from the first movie, The Mummy. There’s a certain charm to seeing Rick O’Connell (Brendan Fraser) and Evelyn Carnahan (Rachel Weisz) back in action, but this time, with a new dynamic – as parents! The film beautifully illustrates their evolution, not just as individuals but as a family, making it a treat for fans who fell in love with their chemistry in the original movie. Plus, who could forget the ever-gorgeous Ardeth Bay and his unwavering dedication to protect the world from the wrath of Imhotep and Anubis’ army?! fans self
While some critics argued that the plot may not have been as tight as its predecessor, you can’t deny that The Mummy Returns was an absolute roller coaster of emotions and excitement. Going from the bustling streets of London back to the golden sands of Egypt, every scene felt like an invitation to a new adventure. The addition of the Bracelet of Anubis and the race against time to reach the Oasis of Ahm Shere (after escaping the cannibal pygmies, of course) added layers of suspense, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. The action sequences in this movie? Absolutely spectacular! Every fight, chase, and confrontation was choreographed to perfection, making it an unmissable cinematic experience.
Let’s not forget the humor and heartwarming moments that made this film so endearing. Jonathan Carnahan’s (John Hannah) antics, the hilariously playful banter between characters, and the adorably fierce Alex (Freddie Boath) added a whimsical touch that balanced out the darker, more intense sequences. And, while the Scorpion King’s CGI may have been… a point of contention, putting it mildly, it became an iconic (albeit for different reasons) part of the movie’s legacy. Sometimes, it’s those quirky imperfections that make a film memorable, and The Mummy Returns had them in abundance, contributing to its unique charm.
While each film in the franchise has its merits, The Mummy Returns holds a special place in my heart for its blend of adventure, humor, and emotion. It’s a cinematic journey I still gladly embark on, time and time again, and had the wholesome moment of introducing my own kids to.
Whether you agree with this ranking or not, we simply can’t deny the impact this franchise has had in the movie industry. Here’s to hoping that Hollywood can still deliver this kind of entertainment to our screens once again – mummies or no mummies.
Which of the modern day The Mummy movies is your favorite? Would you like to see the franchise get another reboot?