The Raid 2

IMDB
First time viewed: Yes
Current Release: Yes
Watched With: Paul

The Raid was an intense fast-paced action-packed thrill ride. A beautifully crafted action film with a simple set up and ample pay-off. A joy to watch.

The sequel however, is just simply epic. It breaks free of the simple confines of the original and spans generations and various warring clans from around the world. And though it does take quite a while to understand what exactly is going on and what is being set up, once the dominos start toppling, there's no stopping it. The character work here is wonderful and then of course there's the insane goretastic old-school action. Beauteous.

Gareth Evans really stepped up to the plate and delivered. Across the board, the cinematography, edit, production design and acting, and yes the action, all are honed with great care and the finished film is very satisfying indeed, despite the very slow burn. In truth I didn't even realise the film was 3 hours long while watching it. Great stuff. And some thrilling camera moves too...