When Pixar's most recent release, "Toy Story 5," hit theaters on June 19, it shattered the series' previous record for the biggest domestic opening weekend at $160 million and ranked as the second largest animated film debut, trailing only "Incredibles 2."

Whether audiences felt "Toy Story 5" was essential remains debatable.

Some might suggest ending the adventures of Woody, Buzz, Jessie, and their companions after the 2010 installment "Toy Story 3," widely regarded as an outstanding trilogy finale. While Forky and "Toy Story 4" brought enjoyment, their necessity is questionable.

The film industry can be unpredictable. Occasionally, follow-ups emerge despite lacking interest, whereas successful films miss opportunities for continuation. This piece examines some of the least desired sequels alongside those eagerly anticipated.

Following a pair of "Fantastic Beasts" entries, it is clear additional films are unnecessary.

Did viewers truly desire the tale of Newt Scamander, the initial magizoologist in the Wizarding World, upon the 2016 debut of "Fantastic Beasts"? Not especially. Yet five years had passed since the last "Harry Potter" movie, and in today's market intellectual properties dominate. The follow-up "Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald" arrived in 2018 with a muddled narrative, numerous pointless characters, and a finale that risked altering established canon. It earned a weak 36 percent critics score on Rotten Tomatoes alongside a 53 percent audience rating. Six years later matters worsened amid controversies involving Johnny Depp, J.K. Rowling, and Ezra Miller. "The Secrets of Dumbledore" launched in April 2022 with minimal excitement, a 46 percent Rotten Tomatoes score, and the franchise's lowest box office. Two further entries focused on Newt seem unwarranted, which may explain why Warner Bros. has avoided committing to them.

Even Lionsgate recognized the "Divergent" sequels as failures and skipped completing the series.

After "The Hunger Games" succeeded, numerous dystopian young-adult adaptations reached screens, yet only "Divergent" neared comparable results upon its 2014 release. Shailene Woodley portrayed Tris, a teen in a society split into personality-based factions, though her multiple traits made her divergent. The concept confused many, limiting cultural impact and yielding a 41 percent Rotten Tomatoes score. Two more chapters followed: "Insurgent" at 28 percent and "Allegiant" at 11 percent. Plans to split the final book into two films collapsed after poor reception to "Allegiant," canceling the conclusion. Thus the middle entries served little purpose without a finale.

"Dirty Dancing" required no sequel.

"Dirty Dancing: Havana Nights" functions more as a reimagining than a direct continuation, yet its existence raises questions. The original remains a classic despite dated elements like the age difference and certain plot points, excused by strong chemistry and charm. The 2004 follow-up shifted the setting to Cuba, introducing political and racial themes it could not adequately address. Studios should recognize that not every beloved title needs extension. Nevertheless, a legacy sequel is planned for 2027.

"Pitch Perfect" also lacked justification for two additional chapters.

No clear narrative logic supports expanding a college a cappella story into a trilogy beyond financial motives. The 2012 original offered a complete, amusing tale that launched several careers and featured memorable musical moments. Its strong box-office performance led to further entries that drifted from the college setting by the third film in 2017, removing the core premise.

Enthusiasm for "Space Jam: A New Legacy" faded quickly after release.

Nostalgia for the 1996 original may have fueled anticipation, yet the film itself holds limited merit beyond affection for Michael Jordan and the Looney Tunes. Warning signs appeared with debates over character redesigns and odd background references. The villain's pun-filled name further undermined the project.

"The Mummy" stands as a classic while its third entry disappoints greatly.

The 1999 film excels, and its 2001 sequel delivers enjoyable nostalgia despite imperfections. The 2008 chapter relocates to China, recasts a key role, and shifts focus to the son, creating an unsatisfying experience. The 2017 reboot also failed to impress. Reports suggest a proper fourth installment with original cast members may arrive in 2027.

"Sex and the City 2" nearly tarnished the franchise legacy.

The 2010 sequel feels tedious, culturally insensitive, and excessively lengthy while promoting tourism. The later series "And Just Like That" offers improvement despite character issues.

A "Snow White" sequel without its lead character proved misguided, as seen in "The Huntsman: Winter's War."

The 2012 film achieved modest success, yet the follow-up removed Kristen Stewart after off-screen events. The result lacked the original's central figure and failed to satisfy audiences.