I watched the new film “Hunt for Thieves 2”. It’s a huge thing that you can go to the movies to see now.

In an environment where foreign premieres have become rare in Russian cinemas, each new release is perceived as an event. If especially, then this is a sequel to a popular film.

Not only does Manhunt 2: Panther highlight the return of Gerard Butler as the charismatic detective, but it also promises to reintroduce the spectacle into a world of massive thefts, tense confrontations and intense crime action.

Compared to the limited selection of international releases, this film is actually quite good. But did it live up to expectations and was it able to maintain the mass that became the first part beloved among fans of the genre? Let’s figure it out.

We have already watched the new product and will hasten to share our impressions.

We’ve already seen this somewhere. And all at once

What is the film about?: Big Nick is back on the hunt. This time his goal is in Europe: Donnie is now spinning in the treacherous and unpredictable world of thieves and jewelry, and is also connected with the famous Panther mafia, with which they are planning a grandiose development of the world’s largest diamond exchange.

The second part continues the story of a team of robbers who take on a daring robbery. I think the key to success: everything you need for a spectacular action movie is in place. There is a cunning plan, tension, betrayals and unexpected encounters. However, the implementation leaves much to be desired.

The main problem with the plot is its economy. All developments, be it a cunning maneuver or a sudden turn, seem familiar and easy to read. The whole story would be made up of crime genre clichés. Here the rules are really standard: the heroes develop a complex plan, difficulties in separating conflicts, and in the finale we get a large-scale robbery, which almost fails, but ends with the expected budget.

But there are also advantages. For example, the film shows in some detail the process of preparing for a robbery: how the heroes analyze the risks, plan exit routes and use modern technologies. These moments are catchy, although they don’t reach the level of tension of the first part.

From the very beginning, the film tries to capture visual dynamics. However, towards the middle the pace begins to sag significantly. Details of the characters’ personal lives or their internal aspects take up too much screen time, without adding anything new to their image. This slows down the plot and reduces interest.

Fortunately, the ending makes up for many of its shortcomings. The robbery scene was filmed with good dynamics, tension and entertainment. It is in these moments that the film reminds you that it should not only be beautiful, but also exciting. In addition, here the director managed to build the right balance between action and drama, which was so lacking at first.

Gerard Butler is back as the band’s leader and his charisma still works. He manages to follow the viewer’s gaze even in those moments when the script clearly fails. However, his character is almost not international. If in the first part we looked at his main conflicts and motivations, here he seems to be just a functional character.

Visually – stylish, but this is not enough

Despite the profitability, the film is not without its bright moments. For example, a scene where the characters use high-tech devices to hack computer security systems brings freshness and adds spice to the action.

However, there were some controversial issues. Some key plot points, such as betrayals within the team, feel too obvious. This breaks the intrigue and the low level of emotional adaptation of the viewer.

If there is an undeniable strength in the film, it is the visual component. The cinematography, locations and overall design look impressive. City landscapes, luxurious interiors of the diamond fund and dynamic scenes of robberies create the atmosphere of an expensive and stylish movie.

However, a pretty picture doesn’t always go hand in hand with change. At times, it feels like the creators are trying to cover up the script’s flaws with visual effects. Yes, it’s nice to look at, but when a weak plot is hidden behind bright shots, the impression still remains blurry.

Sequel just for fans

“Hunt of Thieves 2: Panther” is a film that appealed to supporters of the first part and those who love stylish crime thrillers. It doesn’t live up to the level of the original, but it’s still entertaining enough to spend an evening at the cinema with.

Yes, it has obvious disadvantages: low height, lengthy and open spaces. But its strengths – a spectacular finale, Gerard Butler’s charisma and a bright visual presentation – allow the film to retain the audience.

If you’re looking for a light and stylish movie to watch in the evening, “Hunt of Thieves 2” may please you. But don’t expect from him the emotions that the first part gave.