'Ultimate Avengers II (2006)' doesn't stick as close to its source-material as its predecessor, instead introducing Black Panther and having much of the action take place in and around Wakanda. Its changes aren't necessarily detrimental, however, and it feels like a unique sequel to the first film. It still keeps the spirit of the comic-book intact, providing the great characterisations you'd expect from an adaptation of it. It makes a couple of risky decisions, only one of which is seemingly slightly - and only slightly - neutered to fit its 'kid-friendly' status. The flick ends up being just as enjoyable as the first, even if it is slightly sillier and isn't quite as well-rounded overall. The pacing is much better this time, though, and there's never a dull moment. The plentiful - and sometimes surprisingly brutal - action is often compounded by tangible stakes, which makes for an experience you constantly care about. It really is remarkable how character-focused the flick is, even during its brasher bits. The set-pieces can seem a little segmented at times, however. The animation is bloom-heavy and sometimes stiff, but it is more than serviceable and allows for the quieter moments to work as well as the loud ones. In the end, the movie is a breeze to watch and a blast while you do. 7/10
Review of Ultimate Avengers II
Ultimate Avengers II
(2006 Video)
Doesn't stick as close to the source-material as the first; still, it's usually a blast.
26 June 2018