Bigger, Better & Bloodier Than The Expendables

Rating: Null/10 (7 November 2014)

Bigger, better & bloodier, The Expendables 2 is an explosive sequel to its predecessor that improves upon the original in almost every department & is a worthy addition to the newly established franchise. Continuing its homage to past action classics, the film hugely improves on the action, violence & humour aspects and the new recruits to its ensemble cast are unquestionably a welcome addition.
The Expendables 2 continues the journey of the notorious band of elite mercenaries who are reunited for a new assignment which seems like a seemingly simple operation but when one of their own is murdered on the job, the mission evolves into a quest for revenge as the group tries to avenge their loss by going one on one against a formidable enemy who's also in possession of a deadly weapon.
Directed by Simon West, the film opens on a high note with an impressive action sequence and never loses its high-octane fuel throughout its runtime. The direction is good, writing takes the premise into darker territories, the humour & references are nicely handled, camera-work is dynamic, editing improves the pacing & Brian Tyler's score provides the adrenaline rush in just the right doses.
Coming to the performances, the reprising cast continues its job in the same fashion as before & it was pretty refreshing to see more of Schwarzenegger & Willis in this one. But what makes the ensemble all the more solid are the new additions in Liam Hemsworth as the latest member of Expendables, Chuck Norris in a hilarious cameo & Jean-Claude Van Damme as the main antagonist, at which the veteran brilliantly excels.
On an overall scale, The Expendables 2 is an intensely enjoyable, highly entertaining & immensely satisfying action flick which delivers everything it promised and is better than the original in every way. From the excellent opening sequence to the final showdown between Stallone & Van Damme, it never tries to hold back the blood, gore or violence which I really appreciate. A definite must for fans of the original.