Review of The Raid 2 (2014) by Johnathon W — 25 Mar 2016

Solid sequel that improves on its predecessor in many ways, but goes too far in some. The cast is effective and believable in their action roles (the return of Yahan Ruhian is nice though not explained & I especially liked Hammer Girl).

Gareth Evans makes the film look better and expanding out into the larger world gives it some much needed variety. However, the film has too many characters & plots and as a result is too long by at least 30 minutes.

Where the first film suffered from too little story, this one has too much. Thankfully, Evans does know how to film action scenes by pulling the camera back & using longer takes so to display the awesome stunt & fight choregraphy (the car chase/fight is a particular highlight).

Overall, still one of the best martial arts film in recent years, but goes too far in improving on the first's mistakes.