The phrase "direct prequel" means a story or movie that takes place before another story or movie, directly leading into it and providing background information or setting the stage for the original story. Full definition
Sam Raimi directs the prequel film that shows us how a traveling magician (James Franco) ends up in the magical world of Oz. (shockya.com)
Taking us back to the hallowed realms of Generation One Transformers, WfC's plot serves as a direct prequel to the original animated series, which I'm sure will make long - time fans **** in their limited edition Optimus Prime silk pyjamas, your standard fair, you (metacritic.com)
ROGUE ONE: A STAR WARS STORY: Gareth Edwards («Godzilla») directs this prequel to «A New Hope» about a band of resistance fighters (including Felicity Jones, Diego Luna, Ben Mendelsohn and Forest Whitaker) who risk their lives to steal the plans for an under - construction Death Star. (chron.com)