In “The Old Guard 2,” streaming on Netflix, viewers are left questioning the resolution of the film as it ends abruptly mid-climax. About 80 minutes in, after following Charlize Theron’s band of immortal warriors as they face threats from the new villain, Discord, played by Uma Thurman, the narrative stops without delivering a clear ending. This decision by the filmmakers may have been intended as a clever commentary on the nature of immortality, but for audiences, it results in an unsatisfying experience.
The sequel doesn’t quite capture the same magic as its predecessor, which debuted in 2020 and provided a refreshing escape. That film introduced us to Theron’s Andromache the Scythian and KiKi Layne’s character, Nile, while establishing a backdrop of betrayal and unresolved histories. One of the major plot points left dangling from the first film was the fate of Quynh, Andy’s companion who was tragically left at the bottom of the ocean. “The Old Guard 2” hints at this past while exploring deeper themes of mortality, but it ultimately feels like a step backward rather than a progression of the franchise.
Behind the scenes, the change in direction from Gina Prince-Bythewood to Victoria Mahoney has influenced the film’s tone. Although the film opens with a lively action sequence and moments of humor, it quickly shifts to a more ponderous exploration of time and the consequences of immortality, particularly for Andy, who grapples with her lost power. Meanwhile, Thurman’s character, Discord, presents an interesting villain, but her full potential remains unrealized, leaving audiences wanting a more climactic confrontation.
Overall, “The Old Guard 2” serves as a passable sequel but may leave fans feeling frustrated due to its unresolved storyline and lack of a proper conclusion. The film offers moments of entertainment, especially through standout performances like that of Matthias Schoenaerts, yet the abrupt ending might lead to disappointment for viewers who were hoping for a satisfying wrap-up. This sequel adds to the ongoing conversation about franchise filmmaking, where viewers often find themselves in incomplete narratives, sparking discussions about the expectations and demands of modern audiences.
With a runtime of 105 minutes and rated R for graphic violence and some language, “The Old Guard 2” might serve best as background viewing rather than a captivating standalone experience. Despite its flaws, fans of the original could still find moments to appreciate, leaving the door open for potential future installments, albeit with the hope for a more cohesive storytelling approach.