‘The Expendables 2' Review: An adrenaline pumping action ride

Zeenews Bureau

First things first, ‘The Expendables 2’ is far more thrilling, testosterone dripping and high on action than its prequel ‘The Expendables’. The earlier version evoked a massive interest among action buffs for its sheer line-up of the legends, but the film failed to impress, and hence the expectation from the sequel was not much. But the second part – once you come out of the theatre watching it – will sure leave you with the taste of gun-powder in your mouth. The high octane thriller has so much action, you couldn’t have asked for more. But more than that, much to everyone’s relief is Sylvester Stallone handing the megaphone to ‘Con Air’ famed Simon West, whose deft direction leaves you at the edge of the seat. ‘The Expendables 2’ brings together a familiar bunch of Hollywood’s real action stars led by Barney Ross (Stallone) and consisting of world’s most lethal mercenaries. There is bladed weapons expert Lee Christmas (Jason Statham), hand-to-hand combat expert Yin Yang (Jet Li), volatile genius Gunner Jensen (Dolph Lundgren), barrel-weapons specialist Hale Caesar (Terry Crews), demolitions expert Toll Road (Randy Couture) and sniper Billy the Kid (‘The Hunger Games’ famed Liam Hemsworth). The story builds after they have just completed a successful mission in Nepal when Ross is contacted by shadowy CIA operative Mr. Church (Bruce Willis). But let’s not concentrate here on the story, as it is almost on the beaten track with the protagonists pitted against a formidable opponent - the appropriately named Jean Vilain (Jean-Claude Van Damme). The real action starts after the mercenaries are double crossed, the end result of which is total mayhem. As far as adrenaline-thumbing action goes, you will have more than your fill, with bountiful ammunition expended, martial arts match-ups in full show, and every form of transportation imaginable, from helicopters to jet skis being thrown into the fray aplenty. However, the real saving grace here in the second instalment of ‘The Expendables’ is good direction by Simon. Exercising all those prospects which were missed the last time, director has diligently utilized the potential of all the legends in the film. Building character depth, every actor in the film has been given enough screen time to exhibit their talent. Another good thing in the film is that the plot is less confusing this time and the shots in the film is sans Bourn-like shaky cams which makes it easier to watch the larger-than-life actions stars truly in their element. Watch it if you want to have an explosive weekend! Ratings: Three cheers for the mind-blowing action!