Scott Gentry reviews "RED 2", the explosive sequel, to the 2010 summer blockbuster "RED".

"RED 2" (12A)

Director: Dean Parisot.

Starring: Bruce Willis, Helen Mirren, John Malkovich, Anthony Hopkins and Lee Byung-hun.

Rated: 12A, for containing moderate action violence and moderate language.

Running time: 116 minutes.

Out now in UK cinemas.

*RED stands for retired, extremely dangerous.*

Following the events of "RED", Frank (Bruce Willis) and his girlfriend Sarah (Mary Louise-Parker) are now a happy couple who live together, uninterrupted by the life that Frank was so used to. However, he is soon forced to re-group with his old operatives, including Marvin Boggs (John Malkovich); and plunged once again, into the world of uncompromising assassins, vicious terrorists and relentless government officials. No-one ever said retirement would be easy! 

"RED" was a surprise hit of 2010 (based upon a famed graphic novel); which boasted a fresh take on the action genre. It included a cast that may be elderly, but was more than capable to play characters of a demanding genre.

"RED 2" is much the same as its predecessor. It includes the original cast (excluding Morgan Freeman) and places them in chaotic and overblown action sequences, much like before. However, it is not a straight copy-cat film. "RED 2" mixes the unique blend of humour with plenty of action. 

Saying that, "RED 2" seems to have a less intelligent script than before. It is written by the Hoeber brothers, who are well known for hit and miss scripts for films such as "Battleship" and "Whiteout". 

It almost seems as though they have not tried very hard at all to produce an entertaining sequel, to a film that has grown in popularity. 

"RED 2" is diverting, yet it lacks the narrative needed to carry the film through its close to two hour running time. Although, the film does not seem concerned by the quality of it`s plot, but the characters and the jokes which accompany them.


The film`s cast is well led, by the more than capable Bruce Willis, who uses his "Die Hard" charm to good use. John Malkovich is as zany as ever and Anthony Hopkins is more entertaining to watch than some of his recent roles. 

Verdict

"RED 2" is large amounts of fun whether it be intelligent or not. An enjoyable sequel that doesn't try too hard; but ends up delivering a satisfying piece of film.

5 stars out of 10 = Good.

Written by Scott Gentry.