Today’s quick review: Blade II. When Jared Nomak (Luke Goss), a mutant vampire known as a Reaper, begins preying on other vampires, Overlord Eli Damaskinos (Thomas Kretschmann) calls a truce with Blade (Wesley Snipes), a ruthless vampire hunter, to eliminate their shared enemy. Blade must lead the Bloodpack, an elite team of vampire warriors, into the heart of Reaper territory. But the threat of betrayal makes the mission all the more dangerous.
Blade II is an action horror movie based on the Marvel comic book character. Blade II picks up two years after the original movie as Blade tracks down his missing mentor. The sequel improves on the first film in a number of ways, including its action, its special effects, and its supporting cast. However, its focus on action comes at the cost of story: the human world is barely seen, and the plot focuses exclusively on vampire hunting.
Blade II goes all-in on its action. With the Bloodpack, the Reapers, and Blade himself running around, the movie gets plenty of chances to indulge in its gory, larger-than-life combat. Advances in CGI give the stunts an extra kick, allowing for heavier hits and more creative camera angles. Wesley Snipes is in fine form as the laconic, unflappable Blade, and he’s backed by a supporting cast that includes Ron Perlman, Norman Reedus, and Donnie Yen.
Blade II is well worth a watch for action fans who don’t mind a bit of violence. Though it offers little in the way of story or drama, its solid execution and plentiful action make it a great pick for those looking for popcorn. For more supernatural action in a similar vein, check out Underworld and its sequels. For another action-focused movie with a solid story and even more gore, check out Dredd.
6.7 out of 10 on IMDB. I give it a 7.0 for polished and energetic action.