The Old Guard 2 Review: Iconic Sword Fight, Zero Ending

The Old Guard 2 review: Netflix’s sequel to the 2020 hit The Old Guard brings back Charlize Theron’s Andy and introduces Uma Thurman as Discord, the first immortal. But sadly, it feels more like half a movie than a full sequel.

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Key Facts

• Director: Victoria Mahoney (replaced Gina Prince-Bythewood)
• Writers: Greg Rucka & Sarah L. Walker
• Release Date: July 2, 2025 on Netflix
• Runtime: About 107 minutes
• MPAA Rating: R, for graphic violence and some language

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Plot Overview (Minimal Spoilers)

Andy, now mortal after losing her immortality in the last film, reunites with Nile, Joe, Nicky, and Copley. They team up with Tuah (Henry Golding), a mentor figure, when new threats emerge: Discord (Uma Thurman), the first immortal, and Quỳnh (Veronica Ngô), Andy’s betrayed comrade freed from centuries of torture.

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A major twist emerges when Booker (Matthias Schoenaerts) sacrifices his immortality to save Andy—and pays the price. The final act has Discord capture the team mid-battle. The film ends on a dramatic cliffhanger, with no resolution—or guarantee of a part 3.

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Old Guard 2 – Highlights & Misses

What works

• Fight of the year: Theron vs Thurman’s sword clash is easily the film’s high point. Director Mahoney beefed up the sequence to showcase both icons.
• Strong cast: Returning immortals KiKi Layne, Marwan Kenzari, Luca Marinelli, and Chiwetel Ejiofor are reliable. Veronica Ngô’s Quỳnh adds dramatic weight.

What disappoints

• Plot pacing is inconsistent—short bursts of action followed by long, slow exposition. Critics call it “lifeless” and a “background movie” .
• Cliffhanger fatigue: The sudden stop mid‑climax feels unfair. Many viewers won’t know if part 3 is coming. Reviews say fans might feel cheated .
• Tone shift: The first film balanced action and heart. This sequel leans too much into existential angst and mythology, losing some emotional grounding.

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Verdict: Who Is It For?

This sequel is worth a watch if you:

• Want to see Charlize Theron & Uma Thurman face off.
• Like the immortal mythos and don’t need a full ending.
• Enjoy rich lore and character drama.

But if you expect a standalone story with satisfying closure—or electrifying, nonstop action—you’ll likely walk away frustrated.

Rating: ★★☆☆ out of 4

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The Old Guard 2 review – Final Note

The Old Guard 2 delivers on style and star power—but ends in mid-air. Viewers craving epic battles between immortal legends will find thrills here. Yet, the unresolved story might leave you wishing Netflix had offered a “continue watching” button on a sequel that feels more like a first act than a full film.