This sequel takes place in 80s Washington, DC (there’s even a Virginia Is for Lovers banner). While pining for her true love (Chris Pine), she comes to numerous rescues… on the DL. Two villains emerge: Max Lord, a greedy huckster who wants to rule the world (Pedro Pascal with verve but not special) and The Cheetah, a mousy researcher with a wish for super powers (Kristen Wiig who manages to subtly incorporate her comic charm). The evil-rules-the-world theme is tired and the evolution of the story is rather dumb. What we really care about is the action and there are some moments that thrill, but most of the scenes aren’t spectacular. To make matters worse, the attempts at emotional drama get in the way of a good time. After the engaging spirit and rousing stunts in the original (my review), this follow-up doesn’t manage to instill the same magic or thrills.
BTW, look for the real-life daughters of Gadot and Jenkins in a snowball toss near the end with Gadot’s hubby and other daughter riding a carousel in that sequence.
NOTE: Sit thru the early end credits for a wonderful surprise cameo.
(3 / 5)