Hitman's Wife's Bodyguard: A Sequel That Falls Short

Viewers get a visual vacation as Michael Bryce, Darius Kincaid, and Sonia embark on their mission across glamorous European locales in the latest installment of the hitman series. While the film tries to recapture the magic of its predecessor with cool stunts, fast action, and stunning scenery, it falls short due to a weaker script and added complexity from introducing a third character.

The chemistry between Bryce and Kincaid is what made the first film a hit, but adding Sonia to the mix disrupts the balance. The dialogue references classic '80s action comedies, which only highlights the problematic attitudes of the era. Reynolds' character, Michael Bryce, is now portrayed as traumatized from his efforts to protect Kincaid and his struggles with mental health are mocked throughout.

The film's humor is less effective in this sequel, relying on outdated stereotypes and making light of serious issues. Equating masculinity with brutality, the movie portrays Bryce's emotional fragility as a joke. The body count is high, with frequent gunfire, stabbings, and physical fights, and profanity is rampant throughout.

While the first film aimed to help Bryce understand that some things are out of his control, this sequel focuses on making him less responsible and more comfortable with killing. Unfortunately, the script doesn't live up to its potential, and the added character creates an uneven dynamic.

Despite these shortcomings, fans of action comedies may still find some enjoyment in The Hitman's Wife's Bodyguard. However, parents should be aware that the film contains mature themes, including drinking, drug use, and graphic violence. As always, it's essential to assess your child's sensitivity before introducing them to this type of content.

In conclusion, while The Hitman's Wife's Bodyguard has its moments, it fails to recapture the magic of its predecessor. With a weaker script and added complexity, the film relies too heavily on outdated stereotypes and problematic attitudes. If you're looking for a fun but uneven sequel, you may find some enjoyment in this movie, but be prepared for an experience that's less satisfying than the original.

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