Draft:Southland Tales (franchise)

The Southland Tales franchise consists of American science fiction black comedy-thrillers, including one theatrical films and. ....

Untitled sequel film (TBA)
In January 2021, Richard Kelly announced that developments are underway to expand the film into a franchise with intention being that the original cast return. The filmmaker explained that the original film is Chapters 4-6, while a prequel project will explore Chapters 1-3. Kelly stated that he intends to incorporate animation into the franchise, with future projects as well, while additional projects can explore events that take place in the plot's 2024 timeline. Kelly later stated that he decided to officially write a sequel, following a conversation that he had with James Cameron regarding the first movie; while expressing regret for releasing the latter chapters of Southland Tales in the original film, stating that this placed the audience at a disadvantage in understanding the overall plot. The filmmaker stated that discussions are ongoing as to whether the projects should be released as films or in a long-form format through a streaming service.

In February of the same year, Kelly stated that the project in whatever form it takes will likely be released via streaming, and that he has been working on expanding the franchise for years, though he began working in earnest following his conversation with Cameron. While confirming that the plot would follow the graphic novels he wrote, he hopes to include newly created additional scenes and dialogue incorporated into the original film via animated sequences; explaining that the sequel is intended to be viewed as a feature length sequel to the first installment, or that the 6 chapters can be watched as a limited series. In May 2024, Kelly stated that he hopes to realize a complete six chapters, as well as adapting the graphic novel.

Short film
An animated segment, released initially separate from the feature film, This is the Way the World Ends was included on the collector's edition home release compiled by Richard Kelly and named as a part of the franchise.

In other media
Written by the film's writer/director Richard Kelly and illustrated by Brett Weldele, The Prequel Saga consists of a collection of three graphic novels. Originally conceived as a multi-media franchise which would include two installments, totaling nine parts: a six-volume graphic novel series and the feature film with three parts; the novels were reduced to three installments instead. Kelly additionally developed a website which would connect the various plots and stories, for the general audience.


 * Southland Tales: Part One - Two Roads Diverge


 * Southland Tales: Part Two - Fingerprints


 * Southland Tales: Part Three - The Mechanicals

The story continues through the movie's three parts which are titled, Part Four: Temptation Waits, Part Five: Memory Gospel, and Part Six: Wave of Mutilation.