Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3/5 stars)
Released 08-04-2023
Watched 08-06-2023
Reviewed 08-07-2023
Viewed in Theater - Using Cinemark Movie Club
"I just hope it goes better than last time."
"Meg 2 The Trench," directed by Ben Wheatley, plunges into deeper, darker waters where Jonas Taylor (Jason Statham) leads a daring research expedition, unveiling a battle with prehistoric predators and malevolent miners. Although it brings a stronger current than its predecessor, it still struggles to stay afloat in places where it really counts.
The plot unravels as Taylor's crew, including Wu Jing as Jiuming Zhang and Shuya Sophia Cai as Meiying Zhang, dives into the abyss only to find themselves pitted against colossal sharks and a dangerous mining operation. The narrative gains some weight by reflecting on issues like environmental exploitation but often falls into the trap of predictable tropes and clichéd dialogue.
Jason Statham continues to be the dependable action star we all know, and his chemistry with the supporting cast adds layers to his character. Wu Jing's performance adds gravitas to the story, while Page Kennedy as DJ adds some well-timed humor. Despite this, the characters often feel superficial, lacking the depth the movie needs to resonate on a more emotional level.
Visually, the film offers impressive underwater sequences that showcase the terrifying beauty of the ocean's unknown depths. However, the 3D element doesn't seem necessary, as it neither enhances the terror nor the spectacle. It feels more like a superfluous feature than an essential part of the viewing experience.
What makes it slightly more engaging than the original is its emphasis on moral dilemmas and the environmental undercurrent. But these aspects are often overshadowed by a standard action thriller script, lacking the bite one might expect from a movie featuring enormous ancient sharks.
In conclusion, "Meg 2" delivers a fun, albeit familiar, experience that slightly improves upon its predecessor. It's packed with action, suspense, and some genuine thrills, but it's not quite as jaw-dropping as it could have been. It's a worthy watch for fans of the genre or the first movie, but don't expect it to reinvent the wheel – or the fin, in this case.
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