Truly better than its predecessor

Rating: Null/10 (14 July 2001)

Honestly, it escapes me why so many people have a problem with this film. What's up? Yes, we have a film without a great deal of originality, yes, the plot is predictable, and yes, there is hardly if any character depth. So what?? "The Mummy Returns" is a light-hearted shot at Indiana Jones meant to appeal to virtually all ages, are people truly expecting to watch this film and receive a thought-provoking Shakespearean performance?
What we do get, however, is a highly enjoyable thrill ride that has non-stop action and adventure from the very first scene. For what its genre is meant to be, this film is well-acted and gives a good show, and believe me, I know a terrible performance when I see it. The special effects are absolutely incredible and the stunts are something else. To let you know how much of an achievement this movie really is, I left a movie theatre in 1999 having just watched "The Mummy" with a mildly-impressed attitude towards it. Having viewed its sequel, I can honestly say it not only lives up to its original, but is actually a hell of a lot better.
*MILD SPOILERS AHEAD*
No doubt my favourite sequence was 1933 London, the stormy weather really giving an effectively sinister mood. This is where, in my humble opinion, the action really begins. After a nasty run in with the bad guys resulting in Rick O' Connel pursuing his kidnapped wife Evelyn, a newly-resurrected Imhotep sends his mummified priests after our heroes.
The O' Connels make their escape in a double decker bus (don't ask) which results in THE best chase scene ever! I won't give too much away, but for me, this WAS the movie. The film really ended for me the moment the bus-chase ended (but don't listen to me, this is only the beginning of the action).
My only problem with this movie is the way in which CGI effects are badly distinct at the film's climax as they are used to portray the Scorpion King. I can only guess that so much budget was used to create the rest of the film that not much was left for the most important part!
But anyway, to conclude: if you want a thought-provoking, philosophical, deep and intelligent movie where the characters are in depth, go and watch a Shakespearean play. If you're looking for a great adventure flick with brilliant special effects and a more-than-sufficiently-entertaining performance, then "The Mummy Returns" is for you.