Nobody 2 Review: Bob Odenkirk’s Reluctant Assassin Returns in Bloody, Hilarious Style

Returning to Hutch Mansell’s world in Nobody 2.

In the tidal wave of movies inspired by the franchise’s producing success, 2021’s ‘Nobody’, starring the unlikely Bob Odenkirk as a former government assassin, was a particular highlight. It managed to not take itself too seriously, while still making audiences flinch with visceral over-the-top action. ‘Nobody 2’ continues that trend, even raising the bar for how silly these stylized beat-em-ups can be.

Bob Odenkirk returns as Hutch Mansell, an assassin whose exploits four years ago have him working an endless stream of missions to pay off the debts he owes to criminal organizations. Hutch’s wife, Becca (Connie Nielsen), tries to be understanding, but it’s clear the whole family misses their dad. Hutch begs his bosses for a break and eventually can take his family to a nostalgic water park in Plummerville. It is spot he once visited as a kid with his dad (Christopher Lloyd). Of course, the vacation is cut short due to Plummerville’s shady police sheriff (Colin Hanks), corrupt theme park operator (John Ortiz), and bloodthirsty crime boss (Sharon Stone).

The Franchise’s Winning Tone

The best thing about ‘Nobody 2’ is the tone. Many of the John Wick clones are self-serious in nature (think ‘Atomic Blonde’ and ‘Ballerina’), but the Nobody franchise isn’t interested in being taken too seriously. Director Timo Tjahjanto effectively capitalizes on the style of the first film, taking it further in several ways. There are multiple leaps in logic that the plot and action take, but it doesn’t require the audience to think too hard about it. The comedy doesn’t make the punches hit any less hard or the gore less disgusting. And even if it’s a bit thematically shallow, it’s fun to watch.

Wild and Creative Action Scenes

The action itself is well choreographed in a variety of abstract locations. I had never witnessed a 4-on-1 fight scene on a tourist duck boat in the middle of a lake, but that has now been fixed. Whack-a-Mole mallets, katanas, and boat anchors are all used in a variety of fight scenes, creating an improvised fighting style to keep it fresh for audiences. The final set piece utilizes the water park as a ‘Home Alone’-style playground for deadly traps and explosives, complete with blood running down a water slide in crude style.

Standout Performances

Odenkirk’s unimpressive physique, unassuming looks, and crackly voice make him that much more interesting as an action star. When it’s time to get serious, it’s somehow still believable that Hutch can kick some serious…rear end. Sharon Stone is a standout as the villainous Lendina. She plays a crime boss who can get her hands dirty when the time comes. Stone is chewing scenery, dancing onscreen, and having a general good time.

Verdict

‘Nobody 2’ isn’t a perfect action movie, but its ability to push genre norms and create a fun and gritty atmosphere with a non-traditional action star makes it worth the price of admission.