I can see the effort was made here but unfortunately missed the mark completely.
I think it boils down to a lot of different factors.
The story was terrible, not interesting, lack of character development. However, I liked how the ending left it open for the third instalment.
Casting was a bit off, I appreciate the dad returning and Rose making an appearance, but Carrie Anne Moss? Really!!??
Casting and script in the first movie was SPOT ON. Couldnโt of been any better.
There was just so many cringe moments in the script for this movie. I found myself just wanting it to end half way through.
Acting could of been better, but was good enough, I put that on the director and editor.
Most importantly though what let this movie down majorly is something I may not be able to put into wordsโฆ.but Iโll try.
The first movie had a sense of authenticity.
The odd camera angles were very reminiscent of the game, the right amount of sound effects only used when needed. These elements play a huge part in why the first movie is such a pleasure to watch again and again. There was, dare I say, a sense of realism to the whole plot and setting.
This movie felt fake and like a action romance film.
Sorry M. J. Basset but this movie was a big fail, you just didnโt get it.
On a positive note, as of 2022, Christophe Gans (first movies writer/director) is returning to write and direct a 3rd instalment.