This happens with sequels.  A studio catches lightning in a bottle, makes money, tries to duplicate formula and gets mixed but disappointing results. That seems to be the biggest problem with “RED 2”, starring Bruce Willis, John Malkovich, and Helen Mirren.

Everyone is back, which is good I guess. But they don’t seem to be having as much fun. Maybe it’s the plot, which involves Marvin (Malkovich) trying to convince Frank (Willis) their lives are in danger when they are framed for something to do with an old weapon program during the cold war.

So once they are on the run, they have to drag Sarah (Mary-Louise Parker) along, because all she is doing is complaining she wants a gun and wants something to do. This is precisely what kills this movie. Too many characters and not enough for them to do. Continue reading ‘RED 2’ is more of the same but not in a good way →