Angel Has Fallen: What Movie Comes Before?

by Jhon Lennon 43 views

Hey, movie buffs! If you're diving into the action-packed world of Mike Banning and the Fallen film series, you might be wondering about the order of these thrillers. Specifically, what movie comes before Angel Has Fallen? Let's break it down and get you all caught up with the saga. Understanding the chronological order not only enriches your viewing experience but also allows you to appreciate the character development and intricate plotlines that tie these films together. So, grab your popcorn, settle in, and let’s explore the exciting journey that leads up to Angel Has Fallen.

Unveiling the Fallen Series

The Fallen series is an adrenaline-pumping action franchise starring Gerard Butler as Mike Banning, a Secret Service agent with a knack for finding himself in the middle of intense, high-stakes situations. The series is known for its gripping action sequences, suspenseful plots, and the ever-present threat to national security. Before we delve into the specific film that precedes Angel Has Fallen, let's take a quick overview of the series to set the stage.

The Premise

At its core, the Fallen series revolves around Mike Banning's unwavering dedication to protecting the President of the United States and, by extension, the country. Each film presents a unique and formidable threat, ranging from terrorist attacks to elaborate conspiracies. Banning's character is portrayed as a highly skilled, no-nonsense agent who is willing to put his life on the line to safeguard the nation. His personal struggles and evolving relationships with key characters add depth to the action-heavy narrative, making the series more than just a string of explosive set pieces.

Key Characters

  • Mike Banning (Gerard Butler): The protagonist and central figure of the series. Banning is a Secret Service agent renowned for his combat skills, strategic thinking, and unwavering loyalty. His character evolves throughout the series, facing personal and professional challenges that test his resolve.
  • President Benjamin Asher (Aaron Eckhart): The President of the United States in the first two films. Asher's relationship with Banning is a crucial element, showcasing a bond of trust and mutual respect that adds emotional weight to the action.
  • Allan Trumbull (Morgan Freeman): Initially the Vice President and later the President in Angel Has Fallen. Trumbull's character represents a seasoned statesman whose wisdom and leadership are vital in navigating the crises presented in the films.

The Importance of Order

Watching the Fallen movies in the correct order is essential for several reasons:

  • Character Development: The films trace the evolution of Mike Banning and other key characters. Understanding their past experiences and relationships enriches your appreciation of their actions and decisions in each subsequent movie.
  • Plot Continuity: While each film presents a standalone threat, there are overarching plot elements and recurring themes that connect the series. Watching the movies in order ensures you grasp the nuances of the storyline.
  • Emotional Impact: The emotional stakes in the Fallen series are heightened by the relationships and personal challenges faced by the characters. Following their journey from the beginning enhances the emotional impact of each film.

Olympus Has Fallen: The Predecessor

The film that comes directly before Angel Has Fallen is Olympus Has Fallen, released in 2013. Olympus Has Fallen sets the stage for the subsequent movies and introduces us to the key players and the high-octane world of Mike Banning. This is where the saga begins, establishing the foundation for Banning's character and his relationship with President Asher. Without understanding the events of Olympus Has Fallen, the narrative of Angel Has Fallen might feel incomplete. So, let's explore why Olympus Has Fallen is such a crucial part of the series.

Plot Overview

Olympus Has Fallen centers around a daring and meticulously planned attack on the White House by a group of North Korean terrorists. The assault, which catches the U.S. government off guard, results in the capture of President Benjamin Asher and his staff. Mike Banning, a former Secret Service agent who had been removed from the President's detail, finds himself as the last line of defense. He must use his skills and knowledge to infiltrate the White House, rescue the President, and prevent a catastrophic global conflict. The film is a relentless thrill ride, filled with intense action sequences and suspenseful moments as Banning navigates the besieged White House.

Key Events and Moments

  • The White House Attack: The graphic and intense depiction of the White House takeover is a defining moment of the film, showcasing the vulnerability of even the most heavily guarded institutions.
  • Mike Banning's Heroics: Banning's relentless determination and combat skills are on full display as he battles the terrorists, rescuing hostages and working his way towards President Asher.
  • Relationship with President Asher: The bond between Banning and President Asher is a central theme, highlighting their mutual respect and the lengths to which Banning will go to protect the President.
  • Confrontation with the Terrorist Leader: The climactic showdown between Banning and the terrorist leader Kang is a high-stakes battle of wits and skill, with the fate of the nation hanging in the balance.

Why Olympus Has Fallen Is Essential

  • Introduction to Mike Banning: The film introduces us to Mike Banning and establishes his character as a highly skilled and dedicated Secret Service agent. His backstory and motivations are explored, setting the stage for his future actions.
  • Foundation of the Series: Olympus Has Fallen lays the foundation for the entire Fallen series, establishing the themes of national security, political intrigue, and the personal sacrifices made by those who protect the country.
  • Understanding Relationships: The film showcases the relationships between key characters, particularly Banning and President Asher, which are crucial to understanding their interactions in subsequent movies.

From Olympus to London: Setting the Stage for Angel

After Olympus Has Fallen, the series continues with London Has Fallen (2016), which directly precedes Angel Has Fallen. While each film can be enjoyed on its own, understanding the progression of events and character development is essential for a complete experience. Let's briefly recap London Has Fallen to see how it sets the stage for Angel Has Fallen.

London Has Fallen: A Quick Recap

London Has Fallen moves the action to London, where world leaders have gathered for the funeral of the British Prime Minister. What begins as a solemn occasion quickly turns into a deadly terrorist attack, orchestrated by a Pakistani arms dealer seeking revenge for his family's death. Mike Banning, now the head of the President's security detail, must once again protect President Asher and prevent a global catastrophe. The film is filled with intense action sequences, as Banning and Asher navigate the chaos of a city under siege.

How London Has Fallen Connects to Angel Has Fallen

  • Escalating Threats: London Has Fallen raises the stakes in terms of the scale and complexity of the threats faced by Banning and the President. This escalation sets the stage for the even more personal and insidious threats in Angel Has Fallen.
  • Character Development: Banning's character continues to evolve, grappling with the physical and emotional toll of his job. His experiences in London Has Fallen contribute to his weariness and vulnerability in Angel Has Fallen.
  • Themes of Trust and Betrayal: London Has Fallen explores themes of trust and betrayal, as Banning and Asher must rely on each other to survive. These themes become even more prominent in Angel Has Fallen, where Banning is framed for a crime he didn't commit.

Angel Has Fallen: The Culmination

Now that we've recapped Olympus Has Fallen and London Has Fallen, let's take a quick look at Angel Has Fallen to understand how it builds upon the events of the previous films. This will give you a sense of why watching the movies in order is so important. Guys, it's like reading a book series; you wouldn't start with the last book, would you?

Plot Overview

Angel Has Fallen sees Mike Banning framed for an assassination attempt on President Allan Trumbull. Pursued by the FBI and his own agency, Banning must clear his name and uncover the real perpetrators behind the attack. The film introduces new layers of intrigue and personal stakes, as Banning battles his own demons while trying to protect the President. The action is intense, and the suspense is palpable as Banning races against time to expose the conspiracy.

Key Differences and Themes

  • Personal Stakes: Unlike the previous films, Angel Has Fallen focuses on Banning's personal struggle to clear his name and prove his innocence. This adds a new layer of emotional depth to the action.
  • Themes of Trust and Betrayal: The film explores themes of trust and betrayal, as Banning must determine who he can rely on while evading capture.
  • Character Evolution: Banning's character undergoes significant development as he confronts his past and grapples with the consequences of his actions. His relationship with his estranged father adds another layer of complexity.

Watching the Fallen Series in Order: Final Thoughts

So, to answer the initial question, the film before Angel Has Fallen is London Has Fallen. However, to fully appreciate the nuances of the series, it's best to start with Olympus Has Fallen. Each film builds upon the previous one, enriching the viewing experience and allowing you to connect with the characters and their journey. Watching the Fallen series in order ensures you understand the character development, plot continuity, and emotional impact of each movie. So, grab your popcorn, settle in, and enjoy the thrilling ride from Olympus Has Fallen to Angel Has Fallen! You won't be disappointed, trust me!