Movie Review: The Accountant 2 – Is Ben Affleck’s Return Worth the Hype?
As each Halloween ushers in a wave of chilling horror flicks and December decks itself with heartwarming holiday features, the cinematic landscape during tax season remains less crowded. However, this year, audiences are treated to “The Accountant 2,” the sequel to 2016’s original film. Directed by Gavin O’Connor, the sequel may not have been high on anyone’s wish list, but in an era where successful films are often rewarded with sequels, it finds itself with a unique opportunity: to surpass extremely low expectations.
A Calculated Comeback
In “The Accountant 2,” Ben Affleck reprises his role as Christian Wolff, a meticulous CPA whose extraordinary powers of deduction are magnified by his autism. While the first film was an uneven blend of thriller and drama, this sequel makes a commendable effort to expand on the narrative. Just polishing the numbers would be considered a victory for this installment.
A Math Wizard with a Dark Past
Christian Wolff’s character is puzzling yet intriguing. As a former accountant for criminal enterprises, his current life as a vigilante unravels amidst a plot that’s anything but straightforward. Wolff’s ability to navigate complex financial schemes puts him at the forefront, including a tense scene where he disrupts a human trafficking operation involving a pizza company, all by calculating suspicious discrepancies in expense reports. Keep your receipts, indeed—this scene serves as a reminder of the hidden complexities behind even the simplest transactions.
Ben Affleck’s Unique Portrayal
Affleck’s portrayal is a departure from his more charismatic roles—a gamble where he embodies an emotionless, almost robotic demeanor. His lack of expression and clipped speech contrast starkly with the character’s inner complexity. While this approach may not completely resonate with audiences, it’s impossible to ignore that Affleck seems to relish the challenge.
An Electrifying Brotherly Dynamic
The introduction of Jon Bernthal as Wolff’s brother, Braxton, adds depth to the narrative. Braxton, characterized by his reckless abandon and propensity for violence, complements Wolff’s methodical approach. Their on-screen chemistry reflects a dynamic that is both chaotic and comical, providing viewers with the action duo they’ve been waiting for. However, it takes a while for the film to build momentum, burdened by an unfocused script that drags its feet through the first act.
A Tangled Plotline
The film opens with an intriguing yet chaotic sequence involving J.K. Simmons as Raymond King, a retired FBI financial crimes boss. As he navigates a treacherous meeting that culminates in his demise, viewers are introduced to a complex web of tension and mystery. The story quickly transitions to Marybeth Medina (played by Cynthia Addai-Robinson), King’s former protégé, who takes it upon herself to summon Wolff back into action.
Wolff now resides in a vintage Airstream RV, overseeing a group of young autistic computer prodigies. This setting is charming but often leads to clumsy narratives that fail to propel the story forward, including a clunky speed dating scene that feels out of place.
Finding Balance in Chaos
Despite the film’s convoluted nature, it manages to encapsulate the absurdity inherent in a story about a deeply talented accountant. There’s a curious mixture of seriousness and self-awareness about the tone—an acknowledgement that a quirky accountant thriller doesn’t need to take itself too seriously.
Timeliness in a Turbulent Climate
One noteworthy aspect of “The Accountant 2” is its subtle engagement with real-world issues. The film’s focus on a migrant family’s plight makes it surprisingly relevant, especially in light of ongoing conversations about immigration policy and IRS practices. For those departing from the IRS amid bureaucratic changes, this film may serve as an unexpected outlet for catharsis.
Conclusion: A Worthy Sequel or a Mismanaged Account?
“The Accountant 2,” distributed by Amazon MGM Studios, opens in theaters on Thursday and is rated R for its strong violence and coarse language. Clocking in at 125 minutes, this sequel, while not flawless, finds its footing in moments of genuine engagement and action. Two and a half stars out of four may not seem like a resounding success, but for fans eager to re-enter the world of Christian Wolff, it’s worth an afternoon in the theater—and perhaps a second look at those receipts.
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