Total Perspective Vortex: Smokin' Aces 2 Review

"Even in my dreams, I'm an idiot who knows he's about to wake up to reality."

Smokin' Aces 2 Review

After waiting for quite a while to see this one, I'm sorry I bothered.  Beyond a Buddy Israel name drop, the only thing that carries over into this "sequel" is the generic plot angle of multiple assassins all gunning after one target.  I didn't have high hopes for this one, since the first movie wasn't exactly stellar, but did have the distinction of being somewhat entertaining.  The only chance I saw at redemption was the inclusion of Vinnie Jones, who usually does well in the gangster/assassin type movies.  Not in this one - there are no memorable characters, no standout scenes, and the ending is anti-climactic.

The director, P.J. Pesce, apparently did well for himself on the independent scene back in the 90's, but has mostly been relegated to making cash-in direct to video sequels for  movies that didn't exactly warrant sequels in the first place.  Some of his gems: Sniper 3, From Dusk Til Dawn 3, Lost Boys: The Tribe, and the Tremors TV series.

So, in summary, this movie sucks, and if you've never seen it, don't.  Go watch the first one instead.

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