In my opinion, this film is one of those rare cases where the sequel is better than the original. In at least several ways, RH2 improves upon its predecesor:
1. More Jackie. He is not simply playing second fiddle to Chris Tucker this time around. He seems more relaxed than ever acting in an English-language film.
2. More action. It's obvious that Jackie had more of a say in the fight sequences, even if they are still not as well filmed as in his Hong Kong films.
3. More slash potential! The first film really didn't give me a slashy vibe between Jackie and Chris' characters, Lee and Carter, but this time their chemistry is much improved and there are some great slashy moments. Jackie gets to have some lovely angsty moments when he believes Carter is dead, and by the end Carter is practically following Lee around like a puppy dog. They're very very cute together this time around.
I really enjoyed it--even if the plot is stupid and shoddily strung together. What do you expect from a film like this, anyway? Check your brain at the door and have some good summer movie fun.
SUMMARY:
Overall rating: A- Mindless fun. If you're easily offended you'll probably hate Chris Tucker's humor, but I found him funny.
Droolworthiness: A The massage parlor scene gives us some nice, long shorts of Jackie's legs. There's a very brief butt shot to be enjoyed, too. And I just love Jackie in dark blue silk, mmm....
Slashiness: B+ Definitely more potential than in the first film--I can't wait to see what kind of slashiness we get between Jackie and Chris in the 3rd film! But they're still not as perfectly slashy together as Jackie and Owen Wilson were in Shanghai Noon.
Action: B+ The massage parlour scene is the best--a classic fast, acrobatic, Jackie & props bonanza. The other scenes are generally fast, with some good moves but not filmed well enough to really enjoy. Jackie actually gives Chris the big climax fight(!) in a hilarious showdown with Zhang Ziyi.
Jackie and Chris get a little closer in this sequel...
