When Netflix dropped The Old Guard 2 after half a decade, it came as a surprise. To be honest, I wasn’t even expecting a sequel, but as soon as I saw the cover and release date, I knew I had to check it out—without watching the trailer—just to see what South African-born Charlize Theron had up her sleeve this time around.

Going into the sequel, I barely remembered the events of the first film, but what always stood out to me was the fresh concept of immortality and how it collides with the realities of being mortal. That unique approach pulled me back in, and I was curious to see how the storyline would evolve.

This time, the story once again follows Andy (Charlize Theron) leading her band of immortal warriors against a dangerous new threat. Things get even more complicated with the resurfacing of a long-lost immortal, raising the stakes for their mission to safeguard humanity. The narrative hints strongly at a third installment, making this film feel like a bridge rather than a complete conclusion.

One thing that bothered me, though, was the heavy reliance on fake fire. Visual effects (VFX) flames may be cheaper and safer, but they often lack the impact of the real thing. If I ever had the budget, I’d go for real fire over digital flames every time—it adds a raw intensity that CGI just can’t match.

Synopsis:
Andy leads immortal warriors against a powerful enemy threatening their group. They grapple with the resurfacing of a long-lost immortal, complicating their mission to safeguard humanity.

Directed by: Victoria Mahoney
Writers: Greg Rucka, Sarah L. Walker, Leandro Fernandez
Main Cast: Charlize Theron (Andy), KiKi Layne, Matthias Schoenaerts

In the end, The Old Guard 2 may not answer every question or resolve every arc, but it sets the stage for something bigger. It’s a sequel that holds your attention, even if it leaves you waiting for more.