The Expendables 2 gets the job done. A big, loud, and dumb action film that should please anyone who grew up in the 1980s, it’s also less self-serious and funnier than the first movie. The Expendables 2 also benefits from the swift pacing and upgraded action sequences provided by new director Simon West. The movie won’t win any awards, but it’s a violent good time with a cast of monotone right-wing macho men. The key to the film’s success though lies in the ability for these old action dudes to be in on the joke.
The Expendables 2 starts with a very violent opening that sets the tone. The plot is driven by revenge and some stolen material to make nukes. They are stolen by a baddie named Villain (a perfectly menacing Jean-Claude Van Damme) who wants to make a profit while oppressing the locals. Our motley group of heroes led by Sly Stallone (who resembles a side of beef and looks like he was left out in the sun for far too long) must defeat Van Damme and his various henchmen. Ahnold (who still can’t do a line reading to save his life), right-wing icon Chuck Norris, and Bruce Willis also pop up to lend a hand (and a few amusing in-jokes). The Expendables 2 also includes a homoerotic mano a mano between Van Damme (who finally takes off his designer shades) and Sly Stallone. A sweaty brawl to the death, action fans would want it no other way.
Grade: B+
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Cricket
Aug 17, 2012 -
I was disappointed with the first one.
This one looks fun though because of director, Simon West. He directed the awesome cheese that is Con Air.
Magnus782
Aug 18, 2012 -
Excellent review! While I enjoyed the first film, I thought the sequel was way better!
Game Raging Psycho
Aug 21, 2012 -
I just came back from watching this movie, all the carnage, explosions and action just made me feel all warm and fuzzy inside, snif, snif, it was so beautiful!