F/X2 (1991)

F/X2 is that rare action-thriller that feels handmade in the best way: a clever, street-level New York caper where the hero’s greatest weapon isn’t a gun, but imagination. Watching Bryan Brown’s Rollie rig practical-effects tricks to stay one step ahead of killers and crooked cops gives the movie a playful, cat-and-mouse energy, while Brian Dennehy’s warm, rumpled presence as Leo McCarthy turns the investigation into a buddy dynamic you actually enjoy spending time with. The tone is breezy without being silly—witty, crafty, and constantly in motion, with set pieces that land because you can almost feel the gears turning rather than a computer doing the work. If you want a gritty, hyper-serious thriller, this may feel too light on its feet, but if you’re on the fence, it’s a charming, well-built crowd-pleaser that reminds you how much fun a smart B-movie can be.

F/X2 is clearly trying to bottle the first film’s charm again: a practical-effects wizard using movie tricks to outsmart real-world killers, with a buddy-cop edge thanks to Bryan Brown and the reliably watchable Brian Dennehy. The problem is the story keeps piling on twists, conspiracies, and motivations that don’t quite add up, so instead of clever you may find it messy and oddly cheesy. The finale in particular goes for bigger and louder, but it’s not always easy to track what’s happening or why you should care. If you’re here for light, old-school action and some fun gadgetry (including a memorably goofy toy-based bit), you’ll get mild entertainment; if you want tight logic, sharp writing, or the snap of the original, this one will test your patience.