Writer: Fanaqi N.

Writer Ratings:
Overall: 4.0 Out of 5
Cast: 4.5 Out of 5
Plot: 3.5 Out of 5
Effects: 3.0 Out of 5
Cinematography: 4.0 Out of 5

Watch this if you liked: “The Expendables”

"The Expendables 2" can be considered as a great ass-kicking masterpiece that brings back all the brilliant veteran action stars who gained fame from their classic action films of the past few decades.

Under English filmmaker Simon West's directorial effort and the script from Richard Wenk, the sequel really brings back the action packed nostalgia that we have experienced through the first movie back in 2010.

Due to a request by Mr. Church (Bruce Willis), the Expendables have come together as a team once again for an high-risk operation that holds the data of a hidden bomb in Russia.

The adrenaline level in this sequel has increased vastly compared to the first one and the script is extremely hilarious. Hence, the movie provides a whole new phenomenon for audiences compared to the first with more variety of action, funnier jokes and also emotional scenes that thug ones very heartstrings.

Each of the cast gives in 100 per cent of their effort when it comes to the in depth portrayal of their own characters. For instance, Jason Statham who plays Lee, has the unbelievable charm to gain attention from anyone with his macho persona. Dolph Ludgren's role as Gunner, is an amusing chauvinist with a frightful face that one will never think this man to be a bomb making expert. Jet Li also presents an undisputed performance as an Asian 'hero represent'; Yin Yang. Nevertheless, the minimal existence of Yin Yang in this story is less important compared to his unforgettable appearance in the first movie.

Another major attraction of this movie apart from the anticipated exchange between Schwarzenegger and Stallone; two of the action world's biggest heroes, is certainly Chuck Norris who's back on screens to show who is really boss. In a modest attempt to avoid angering Norris with a performance assessment, this reviewer will politely avoid disclosing his role and will recommend audiences to see and judge the man in action themselves (at their own risk of course!).

Apart from the amazing performance and stunts, scriptwriter Wenk also makes an obvious attempt in leading audiences to get familiarised with the cultural aspects based off the many multiethnic stars. This aspect successfully adds in more depth to the story and their multi-faceted characters

However it should be mentioned that casting Nan Yu as the female protagonist in this film was not the best choice. The actress fails to deliver exciting stunts and more than often falls flat. The role would have better suited more experienced actresses like Michelle Yeoh or the beautiful Zhang Ziyi; both of whom would be able to fit the role better than Nan Yu.

Remember that you must be 18 years old and above to take a ride with "The Expendables 2" due to the awesome violent elements, so obviously children are not advisable to watch and are expendable from attending the screenings.

Cinema Online, 17 August 2012