5 Best TV Movies Based on a Show
Some acclaimed TV shows have concluded, but their stories carry on through TV movies. The popularity of certain shows justifies sequels or films, as fans crave more content about beloved characters. Often, sequel films are made to appease fan demands rather than fill a narrative necessity. A fitting example is Mr. Monk's Last Case, where Monk's character returns during the COVID-19 pandemic, providing insight into how he manages his multiple phobias.
Conversely, some films exist to conclude unresolved storylines. While TV movies often aren't essential, viewers widely enjoy them, as they hark back to the best qualities of the original shows and provide updates on beloved characters.
5. Prison Break: The Final Break (2009)
Prison Break: The Final Break offers extra content for fans, especially those who love Sara and Michael. The film serves as a conclusion to the series before the fifth season's revival. It enhances understanding of Michael's death and its connection to Sara's protective instincts.
During the series' final seasons, acclaim for Prison Break waned. The excitement that once surrounded it faded, yet The Final Break somewhat revives that original charm. The engaging action sequences, intense stakes, and character arcs, albeit brief, recall the essence of Prison Break's season one.
4. Psych: The Movie (2017)
Psych concluded with "The Break-Up," showing Shawn and Gus's move to San Francisco. Three years later, Psych: The Movie resumes their story. James Roday and Dulé Hill reprise their roles and embark on new crime-solving adventures, reflecting their evolutions in life.
The film maintains the lighthearted charm fans adore, balancing nostalgic references with fresh content to justify its sequel. Creator Steve Franks served as director and co-writer, laying the foundation for the Psych film series. Two additional films, Psych 2: Lassie Come Home and Psych 3: This Is Gus, followed on Peacock in 2020 and 2021.
3. Deadwood: The Movie (2019)
Deadwood, HBO's enthralling Western series, ran for three seasons. It vividly depicted the growth of its eponymous town in the 1800s. Despite critical acclaim, the show faced cancellation, leading to discussions about a potential movie. In 2019, Deadwood: The Movie was finally released.
The film involving many original stars, including Timothy Olyphant and Ian McShane, continues the series. At times, it feels unnecessary, likely rehashing elements from season three. However, strong performances and heartfelt fan service compensate for this, redeeming the film's storyline.
2. El Camino: A Breaking Bad Movie (2019)
El Camino: A Breaking Bad Movie acts as an epilogue to the highly regarded series Breaking Bad. The narrative follows Jesse Pinkman (Aaron Paul) moments after the finale "Felina," focusing on his attempt to leave the traumatic past behind. This film provides pivotal context for Jesse's character and ties up loose ends from the original series.
The emotional resolution for Jesse enhances the film's significance, turning an assumption about his fate into a poignant ending. Utilizing flashbacks, the story captures memorable moments with significant Breaking Bad characters. Through profound emotional weight, Paul commands attention with his striking performance, fulfilling audience expectations.
1. Mr. Monk's Last Case: A Monk Movie (2023)
Adrian Monk (Tony Shalhoub) became an iconic character on the eponymous USA Network series. Despite rampant phobias, Monk continually exceeds the expectations placed upon him, showcasing his keen observation skills. Recognized as Shalhoub's standout role, Monk’s return was inevitable.
Mr. Monk's Last Case: A Monk Movie debuted on Peacock, reuniting viewers with Monk and original characters 12 years after the show’s finale. Set during the COVID-19 pandemic, Monk returns to detective work, aiding his stepdaughter. The film resonates with audiences, effectively blending nostalgia with fresh experiences, opening possibilities for a sequel.
Earlier, SSP told about the best shows on Netflix to stream now.