The Raids 2 is very different to its predecessor, the
original film used a simple concept as the foundation of its story and
delivered a fast paced (no fat) experience over an exhilarating 90 minutes,
which essentially occurred all in one location in real-time. The sequel tells a
much grander story involving multiple characters/gangs/families, in a variety
of places over the course of several years with a running time of 2 and half
hours plus. Despite this, the two films feel very much part of the same series
and I think this is primarily down to how the action/fight sequences are
filmed. Even though the story is on a larger scale, the fights tend to still
involve close-quarters combat in confined spaces which echo the majority of
hallway sequences of the first film. And my god are these fights incredible,
even more so seeing they’re all done for real with no CGI or wire-work to
enhance them!
Some of the stand-out sequences involve a full-on prison
riot, hammer-girl in a train carriage, a car chase that gives The Matrix
Reloaded a run for its money and the climatic show-down in a restaurant
kitchen. I’ve listed four sequences here, however I think there are probably 12
or more all of which raise for bar for action and martial arts.
The story and acting are all great, and despite being a
foreign language film its relatively easy to keep up with the story – seriously
don’t let the fact that the film is subtitled put you off going to see it.
It’ll probably be one of best action films you’ll see all year.
Overall I’d say this is a worthy follow-up to probably the
best action movie this decade, although it’s a bit bloated compared to its
predecessor The Raid 2 still delivers exhilarating action and is great viewing
experience. Highly recommended.
9/10
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