Review of Speed 2: Cruise Control (1997) by Tiffany S — 27 Jul 2008

"Annie" (Sandra Bullock) has apparently recovered the trauma of the hijacked bus she was a part of a few years ago. She moved on from "Jack", the hero of the bus incident whom she hooked up with, and is now dating a new beau, who is also a cop, "Alex" (Jason Patric). The two go on a romantic cruise, with the crew mistaking them as a couple on their honeymoon not knowing that "Alex" is carrying a ring in his pocket.

Then it happens. A crazed man (Willem Dafoe), who created the ship's software, hijacks the boat with plans to steal the multi-million dollar jewel collection that is being stored on board.

Now, "Alex" goes in full cop mode, despite being well into international waters and out of his jurisdiction, and tries to stop the maniac's plans, while saving the ship and all those still on board.

First off, the movie lacks the drama that the first film had. In my opinion, the first movie had an equal amount of drama and action. I just didn't feel the drama the first movie had. Also, the action really did not kick in until the last quarter of the movie. Yes, the movie had action through out, but there was just too much breathing room between action sequences in this film.

There are some good special effects in this film. Some good explosions, and the water pouring onto the ship. However, the water coming onto the ship has been seen way too many times in other movies with a cruise ship, and is not spectacular.

As for the performances in the film, it's not bad. I felt that there was some pretty bad character development with the majority of the supporting cast. Also, there was little chemistry between Bullock and Patric -- there was some, but not enough to make them a really believable couple. Dafoe is a very good madman, but I felt as if he was holding back a bit.

I would say that this might be a good rental if your first four choices are not available. It's a fine sequel, but not a perfect sequel.