Today’s quick review: Rush Hour 2. While on vacation in Hong Kong, Los Angeles police officer James Carter (Chris Tucker) joins his friend Inspector Lee (Jackie Chan) in investigating a bombing at the United States Embassy. The prime suspect is Ricky Tan (John Lone), a notorious crime boss and a former friend of Lee’s father. To bring him to justice, Lee and Carter must put their lives and careers on the line.
Rush Hour 2 is an action comedy that picks up where the original Rush Hour left off. Fresh off his trip to Los Angeles, Lee returns to his job, only to discover another crisis in the making. His investigation interrupts Carter’s vacation, dragging the Los Angeles cop kicking and screaming back to police work. Carter and Lee bring their usual brand of chaos to the case, using every resource at their disposal to track down a dangerous criminal gang.
Rush Hour 2 follows a similar formula as the first film and executes it just as well. The culture clash of the original plays out in reverse: where Lee flew to Los Angeles on a mission, James Carter flies into Hong Kong ready to party. The personal side of the plot involves Lee’s history with Ricky Tan, as well as the strain on Lee’s and Carter’s friendship. The changes are enough to make the film feel distinct without compromising on tone or quality.
Rush Hour 2 also offers better action than its predecessor. The sequel includes more fight scenes, a few more explosions, and a greater attention to fight choreography. The focus of the action is still on Jackie Chan’s skillful martial arts, but Chris Tucker gets in on the action as well. The jokes are the same sort of banter as the first film, but Lee and Carter start the film as friends rather than strangers.
Watch Rush Hour 2 when you are in the mood for a light, well-balanced, and entertaining action comedy. Fans of the first film will enjoy the second, and vice versa. Skip it if you are looking for an exceptional film rather than a well-rounded one.
6.6 out of 10 on IMDB. I give it a 7.0 to 7.5 for solid action and comedy.