'Scorpion King' aside, this is an enjoyable and effective sequel.

Rating: 7/10 (1 December 2018)

'The Mummy Returns (2001)' isn't just a carbon copy of the first and takes a few decent steps in evolving the franchise's formula, though it does get a little too grand - and silly - for its own good. It also keeps up the same fun tone and slightly irreverent feel, which makes for an overall enjoyable experience. It does, however, feel a bit tamer this time and isn't quite as tight overall. Still, everything is painted with a broadly fantastical brush and the flick introduces some fairly unique back-story elements that surely provided inspiration for Sofia Boutella's recent incarnation of the bandaged boogeyman. When 'The Rock' turns up as a fully CG creature, things take a turn for the worse, though; that particular special effect is still possibly one of the worst I've seen in a piece of this size. Nevertheless, the movie is an entertaining time, despite its few flaws. 7/10