Robert Connolly directed The Dry in 2020 (my review). It was a mediocre mystery. This sequel (also directed by Connolly) still stars Eric Bana as a detective and it’s not much better. Five women go on a hiking retreat in the Australian bush, but one doesn’t return and the case begins. A lot of time is spent wandering the woods looking for clues, while revisiting his own traumatic childhood experience. The film also alternates between flashbacks to the hike, so that makes 3 different narratives working at once. Actually, they don’t really work that well. While the performances are sometimes strong, there’s no tension or twists to keep it interesting. The whole thing unfolds with competent skill, but never manages any “force,” natural or narrative. 
(2 / 5)
