DVD REVIEW: THE MARINE 2 (2009)

Director: Roel Reine Writer: Christopher Borrelli, John Chapin Morgan Starring: Ted DiBiase Jr, Michael Rooker Distributor: FOX (US)

Recently I’ve been rewatching the Cannon/Golan-Golbus back catalogue. During the 80’s they produced classic action films such as The Delta Force (1986) and Missing in Action (1984). They also produced some not so classic films such as Death Wish 3 (1985), Masters of the Universe (1987) and Ninja 3: The Domination (1984). Regardless of they place in cinematic history all these films delivered a special kind of over the top action, the likes of which have not been seen since Cannon/Golan-Golbus’ demise. Companies like PM Entertainment and Nu Image have tried to recapture the magic, but it took the WWE to bring it back. The WWE doesn’t try to reinvent the wheel, as much as deliver simple, well done action films.

The Marine 2 is an unrelated d2dvd sequel. This time around a terrorist group takes over a five star resort. It’s up to Marine recon sniper Joe Linwood (Ted DiBiase Jr) to save to day. Stupidly Joe tries to then down with a group of local militia. Joe soon realized that if he is going to win he needs to do it “one vs hundred” style!  Apparently the movie is “Inspired by a true story”. As the WWE has gone to no effort to elaborate; I’m presuming its just pr jive.WWE wrestler Ted DiBiase Jr  takes over the franchise from John Cena. Ted DiBiase Jr isn’t a bad actor, but he’s not a real one. This is most obvious whenever he shares screen time with the effortless Michael Rooker. What he lacks in the acting department he makes up for in the action! His predecessor, John Cena and The Rock where a lot better.  This is ok, as the movie lacks and real bad guy. Sure, the movie has one but he rates lower that Keanu Reeves on the personality index. The real star of the film is Michael Rooker. He gives a fun performance as the sidekick/mentor character. Rooker is a great actor for the fact he made a real, likable character out of pretty much nothing. Every other actor in this film had more material to work with, but ended up with far less.

The first half is lacking action as they’re too busy setting up what is a pretty simple premise. When the action does kick in it’s very engaging. The film also feature many WWE styled manplosion we’ve grown to expect. (Manplosions are like explosions but much, much bigger and more masculine)

For my money the film has too many guns and not enough body slams. It’s beyond me why you would hire someone known from their fighting abilities then give them a gun? Thankfully this film has one really good fight scene toward the third act. The fight is natural and fluid, and this is reflected in the camera work. This camera is there to serve the fight, not the other way around. The scene has many long, smooth, unbroken tracking shots which allow you to see what’s going on. There is nothing better than seeing a fighter pull off moves without the aid of editing.

ement

Keep you eye out of this impressive drop kick that DiBiase lands on cement.

This film was directed by Roel Reiné. I have no doubt that he is going to be a massive director due to his ability to mix action with art. One of his directing trademarks are stylistic action scene in which feeling and tone are given preference over any type of realism. Moments like this can we seen thought this film and the Steven Seagal helmed Pistol Whipped (2008).

I was a little disappointed with this film. I didn’t enjoy it as much as other WWE films. I think was largely due to weak leads. Action wise it delivers everything I expected. It’s worth renting at least.

LESLIE MORRIS 01/01/10