Den of Thieves 2: Pantera is derivative. Built around an underdeveloped interpersonal conflict, its drama and themes are inert. Supposedly contemplating morality, that tension is told not shown. This is because the characters are flat, with only one unearned scene of expository motivation. Instead, its script prioritizes a convoluted plot, overstuffed with tropes. There's bland dialogue, a McGuffin, weak humor, dead ends, contrivances, and predictability. Some scenes are missing while others feel unnecessary. Lastly, the acting is inconsistent at best, with Butler bringing the sole personality. Ultimately, Den of Thieves 2 just doesn't create emotional investment.
Technically, Den of Thieves 2 is mundane. Generally mild, its direction lacks style or energy. Though there's movement and focus, its cinematography feels underlit and desaturated. Despite a few set pieces, its editing has absent momentum, uneven structure, and a bloated runtime. Aside from expected action, the sound is relatively standard. Its music uses restrained techno but is primarily a nonfactor. Faint senses of location, cliche wardrobes, and blunt product placements undermine the production design's globe-trotting. Its cast has mediocre fame plus spotty fit. The effects offer average stunts for the genre. Consequently, Den of Thieves 2 is downright forgettable.
Writing: 3/10
Direction: 4/10
Cinematography: 5/10
Acting: 4/10
Editing: 3/10
Sound: 6/10
Score/Soundtrack: 5/10
Production Design: 6/10
Casting: 5/10
Effects: 6/10
Overall Score: 4.7/10
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