Lethal Weapon 2

A palpably superior sequel, Lethal Weapon 2 follows Martin Riggs (Mel Gibson) and Roger Murtaugh (Danny Glover) as they set out to take down a group of vicious South African fascists. Filmmaker Richard Donner kicks Lethal Weapon 2 off with a gripping car chase that’s as funny as it is exciting, with that tone maintained for the duration of the picture’s consistent (yet slightly overlong, admittedly) running time. It’s clear, from start to finish, that Lethal Weapon 2‘s strongest asset is the irresistible chemistry between Gibson and Glover’s respective (and iconic) characters, although Donner certainly manages to elicit equally strong work from an above-average supporting cast that includes Joss Ackland and Patsy Kensit. (Joe Pesci, cast as the fast-talking Leo Getz, steals each and every one of his scenes.) The progressively captivating vibe is enhanced by an ongoing emphasis on impressively enthralling action sequences, as Donner’s well-established comfort with such moments ensures that the picture’s myriad of larger-than-life set pieces never become excessive or unwelcome. The end result is a top-tier bit of ’80s action filmmaking, and it’s not a stretch to label Riggs and Murtaugh as two of the most indelible cops in movie history.

***1/2 out of ****