Following the legacy of Nicholas Sparks’ romantic storytelling, The Longest Ride 2: Second Chances (2025) delivers an emotionally rich sequel to the beloved 2015 film. Directed by Lasse Hallström and written by Dana Stevens, the film reintroduces the Southern charm, multi-generational love, and unexpected connections that captivated audiences a decade ago.
Set in modern-day North Carolina, the story follows Cody Levinson (Jacob Elordi), a rebellious rodeo rider who learns he may be the long-lost grandson of Ira Levinson—the elderly man whose letters helped shape Luke and Sophia’s love story in the first film. As Cody struggles to find his place in the world, he crosses paths with Grace Mitchell (Sydney Sweeney), a passionate art history graduate student researching the legacy of Ruth Levinson’s private art collection. As they uncover long-buried secrets from the past, Cody and Grace are drawn together by more than just curiosity—bound by fate, history, and a powerful new love.
The film was both written and produced by Temple Hill Entertainment, the original production company behind The Longest Ride, in partnership with 20th Century Studios. With a reported production budget of $40 million, the film balances intimate storytelling with beautifully shot rodeo scenes and sweeping Southern landscapes.
The Longest Ride 2: Second Chances officially released on October 17, 2025, and exceeded expectations at the box office. It grossed $92 million domestically and $134 million internationally, totaling an impressive $226 million worldwide. The film benefited from a strong fan base and word-of-mouth marketing driven by social media buzz and the breakout chemistry between Elordi and Sweeney.
Critics praised the film for its “soulful performances” and “emotionally satisfying narrative,” while audiences gave it a 92% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. The movie received multiple accolades, including a People’s Choice Award for Favorite Drama Movie, and a Teen Choice Award for Best On-Screen Chemistry.
With heartfelt performances, a fresh story, and faithful ties to the original, Second Chances proves that true love—and great storytelling—can endure the test of time.
