5 Pixar Films That Merit a Sequel (And 5 That Should Remain Standalone)

      Joseph Jenkinson discusses five Pixar films that merit a sequel and five that should remain untouched.

      Once upon a time, Toy Story was Pixar’s sole sequel. The studio was renowned for crafting unique, imaginative stories that didn't require follow-ups. However, since the 2010s, characters like Lightning McQueen, the Parr family, and Riley's emotions have reappeared for new tales. The recent success of Toy Story 5 has only fueled Pixar's desire to expand its major franchises further. With Incredibles 3, Monsters, Inc. 3, and Coco 2 currently in different development phases, the trend toward sequels shows no signs of stopping.

      Fortunately, Pixar has proven adept at continuing its stories while maintaining the emotional core that endeared them to audiences. Nonetheless, not all films are in dire need of a follow-up. This list does not rank Pixar's films but evaluates which stories still have significant potential left. With that said, let's examine the five Pixar films that deserve a sequel.

      5. Toy Story

      Mentioning Toy Story 6 might seem premature given that Toy Story 5 has just hit theaters, but Pixar has already hinted that another sequel is a real possibility. While there has been no official confirmation, director Andrew Stanton referred to Toy Story 3 as “the end of the Andy years,” implying that the recent films center around Bonnie instead. Thus, a sixth film would be a logical conclusion to this new trilogy.

      Moreover, Toy Story 5 has shown that audiences still eagerly anticipate adventures with Woody, Buzz, and the rest of the crew. The film was both critically acclaimed and commercially successful, ranking among Pixar’s best box-office performances in recent years. After thirty years, the studio continues to find fresh emotional depths without undermining its legacy.

      If a sixth installment materializes, it should steer clear of simply concocting another reason for the toys to get separated. Instead, it could explore Bonnie’s maturation, similar to Andy’s journey, and delve into a new stage of childhood from a different viewpoint. Few franchises have progressed as organically as Toy Story, and if Pixar intends for this to be a new trilogy, a satisfying conclusion to Bonnie’s narrative seems like the natural progression.

      4. A Bug’s Life

      A Bug’s Life occupies an interesting position in Pixar's lineup. Released between Toy Story and Toy Story 2, it has become one of the studio’s most overlooked films, despite its charm, memorable characters, and imaginative world. This makes it a great candidate for a long-overdue sequel, especially with advancements in animation that could enhance its tiny universe.

      By the film's end, Flik has gained the respect of his colony after defeating Hopper and the grasshoppers. His inventions are aiding Ant Island's prosperity, while the Circus Bugs leave with a promise to return. This farewell lays a perfect foundation for another adventure. Rather than having Flik seek help from outsiders, a sequel could reverse the narrative by having the Circus Bugs return for assistance with a new problem elsewhere in the insect realm. Expanding the setting beyond Ant Island could introduce new species, diverse ecosystems, and creative visual concepts.

      Most of the original cast remains available, though the absence of Pixar legend Joe Ranft, who voiced Heimlich, would be deeply felt. Nevertheless, the studio has previously recast iconic characters when necessary. Over twenty-five years later, A Bug’s Life deserves the chance to emerge from the shadows of Pixar’s larger franchises and remind viewers why it was beloved in the first place.

      3. Elemental

      Elemental has undergone one of the most surprising turnarounds in recent box-office history. After a disappointing debut, many hastily labeled it another Pixar letdown following Lightyear's struggles. However, strong word of mouth steadily turned the film into a global success, eventually grossing nearly $500 million worldwide. This gradual rise indicates that audiences connected with Ember and Wade more deeply than the initial numbers suggested.

      Fortunately, the ending leaves ample room for a sequel. Ember and Wade embark on a new life as Ember pursues her dream of being a glass artist beyond Fire Town. A sequel could naturally expand the vibrant world established in the original, introducing new cities, cultures, and communities showcasing the four classic elements in innovative ways. The realms of earth and air, in particular, remain largely unexplored.

      There is also considerable emotional ground left to cover. Director Peter Sohn drew from his own immigrant experiences when developing the first film, using romance to delve into themes of cultural identity, discrimination, and generational expectations—issues that remain relevant today. Whether following Ember and Wade as they navigate marriage, raise a family, or balance differing cultural traditions, Elemental has the unique advantage of merging limitless world-building possibilities with relatable, grounded human experiences. This foundation is precisely what a worthwhile Pixar sequel should offer.

      2. Brave

      Although Brave was divisive upon release, it has since garnered a stronger reputation over the years, largely due to Mer