The Accountant 2: Affleck and Bernthal Shine in a Sequel That Outdoes the Original

MOVIE REVIEW

RATING: 8/10

2 min read

Honestly, this movie was a blast from start to finish. It’s rare for a sequel to outdo its predecessor, but this one pulls it off with confidence and style. The biggest highlight is, without question, the pairing of Ben Affleck and Jon Bernthal. Their chemistry is electric, and they bring out the best in each other on screen. Whether they’re exchanging sharp banter, throwing punches, or sharing surprisingly emotional moments, the two leads are the heart of the film. Their dynamic is filled with both humor and heart, creating scenes that are genuinely funny and touching, which lend the film its emotional weight.

The action is top-tier. The shootouts and hand-to-hand combat are choreographed with precision, and the sound design adds another level of intensity. Every gunshot and punch lands with impact, making the action sequences feel visceral and immersive. It's the kind of action that gets your adrenaline pumping and keeps you glued to the screen.

What surprised me was the heart in the story. The film quickly and smoothly ties up loose ends from the first installment, allowing it to pivot into a new storyline involving gifted children. This subplot not only introduces an intriguing new direction for the franchise but also adds depth to the story. It raises questions about intelligence, potential, and the role people like Christian Wolff might play in shaping young minds. I thought this was one of the coolest elements of the film.

Ben Affleck’s character gets a more layered portrayal this time around. While his autism was a defining trait in the first film, this sequel explores his emotional growth in a more meaningful way. You see Christian evolve—not just as a fighter or a protector, but as a person learning to connect and care on a deeper level.

If there’s one downside, it’s the supporting characters and the subplot involving the antagonist. Some of the side characters felt underdeveloped, and the villain’s arc was a bit rushed and didn’t have the same weight as the central story. Still, those are minor gripes in what is otherwise a fantastic sequel.

Overall, this movie delivers everything a good sequel should: more action, deeper character development, and a new story that expands the world in exciting ways. I genuinely hope to see Affleck and Bernthal return for more.