Review of The Raid 2 (2014) by Edward B — 20 Oct 2014

The Raid 2 is one of the greatest action movies I have ever seen. Gareth Evans has stepped up his already impressive game and with this 2 hours 30 minute action epic, he has proven himself to be a true visionary behind the camera. Where The Raid: Redemption was a kinetic, fight-a-minute thrill ride, its sequel is built around a story. You won't feel its run time because you will be too engulfed in its gritty tale about family, loyalty, betrayal, and identity. Three crime families ultimately end up at war with each other with Rama being caught in the middle as an undercover cop exposing corruption.

Amidst the drama are incredibly choreographed, expertly staged, and graphically violent fight scenes. Weapons, hand-to-hand, gunfights, car chases, The Raid 2 has it all and it doesn't let up! There are at least two action scenes that I would rank among the best in recent memory. On a filmmaking standpoint, the film is beautifully framed, edited with skill and precision - it's so nice to see the actors doing their own stunts - and the sound mixing adds entire new dimensions to what an action film can do. The Raid 2 is a masterpiece!