We've just crossed the record-breaking mark for most sequels or prequels in a single year, and it's only July. So far, we've had 2,174 films this year that have been follow-ups to earlier movies in some form. Give or take a dozen.

Why? It's all about easy recognition, about building a brand, bringing audiences back for more. Just recently, I saw "The Lincoln Lawyer," based on a Michael Connelly novel that's part of a series, and based on the film and the supporting cast of characters, I'd totally be excited to see them do another book in the series. I don't think there's a chance that's ever going to happen, of course, but that would be the sort of sequel I'd be happy to see happen.