The wait for THEY FOLLOW continues, but Maika Monroe is giving fans another reason to feel good about the return of the nightmare. The actress recently offered a little more insight into the long awaited sequel to IT FOLLOWS, suggesting that David Robert Mitchell is expanding the story without losing what made the original so unsettling.
Speaking with People, Monroe confirmed that the follow up will operate on a bigger scale, though she was quick to point out that it still feels connected to the first film. That’s an important distinction for a sequel to a movie that built so much of its terror around ordinary surroundings, quiet moments and the feeling that something could be following you just beyond the edge of the frame.
Monroe said, “It definitely is [on] a bigger scale, but I think it’s still very grounded in the original.”
WATCH THE TRAILER FOR “IT FOLLOWS” BELOW
One part of the original that should remain intact is its distinctive visual approach. Cinematographer Mike Gioulakis is also returning, something Monroe was particularly happy about. She praised the look of the first film, adding that its cinematography and memorable shots are still very much part of the sequel.
Mitchell’s return behind the camera is welcome news as well. IT FOLLOWS became one of the standout horror releases of 2014, earning attention on the festival circuit before finding an even larger audience over time. Its unusual premise and patient approach to suspense helped it develop the kind of following that made a return to this world feel worth pursuing.
A Bigger Nightmare With Familiar Faces
Monroe won’t be returning alone. The sequel also features Naomi Ackie, Justine Lupe, Michael Gandolfini, Jackie Earle Haley, Anna Mirodin, Jayne Taini, Tom Pecinka, Melora Walters, Ben Krieger, Natalie Shinnick and Jan Hoag.
Ackie has also hinted that Mitchell is taking things further this time around. During an earlier conversation with Bloody Disgusting, she offered a rather brief description of the project: “It’s It Follows — but more.”
That certainly leaves plenty of room for speculation, although the filmmakers have kept most story details under wraps. Considering the nature of the original film’s mysterious entity, keeping the details close to the chest is probably the right move.
Monroe is confident that longtime fans will appreciate what is coming, telling People,
“I think they’re going to be happy. I think so … I’m feeling confident. So, I can’t wait.”
The actress has also been keeping busy with other horror projects. She recently appeared in LONGLEGS, which made a strong impression with audiences following its 2024 release and already has a sequel in development. Monroe has expressed interest in returning as Lee Harker, saying she would love another opportunity to work with director Osgood Perkins and Nicolas Cage.
For now, though, the focus is on getting back to the world of IT FOLLOWS. THEY FOLLOW does not have an announced release date, but with Monroe, Mitchell and Gioulakis returning, the sequel has some important pieces of the original in place. A bigger story is one thing. Keeping that same creeping sense of dread is what really matters.
