The Mummy Returns
2001/Adventure/PG-13
Stars: *** Explanation of ratings
Colorful but somewhat predictable thrill ride.
The Mummy Returns is the sequel to 1999's The Mummy. It starts off right into the action, and rarely does it lose its pace. This film was a fun movie that was probably better than the original. However, if you have not seen the original, you may be a little lost because none of the returning characters are re-charactarized. The plot is entertaining, although much of it is predictable. Special effects are widely used, but they don't get in the way. Anyone who likes swashbuckling, lighthearted movies will enjoy The Mummy Returns. The plot is more of a globetrotting adventure than a dungeon hack, and is more of an adventure than a horror.
On the downside, I think that The Rock (playing the Scorpoin King) should have had more screen time, because his presence is commanding. The child's character was weak, and he seemed to have the mentality of a graduate Egyptology student mixed with a childish sense of humor. The pathos created for the mummy and his love was confuzing, because their romance is portrayed to be more tragic than evil.
Overall, I liked The Mummy Returns, but if you go, don't expect Raiders of the Lost Ark. Do expect an enaging movie targeted towards fans of the adventure genre. Quake fans will like this movie, but there is not too much gore. The producers made everything work well, and if you don't understand something that happens in the first half-hour, you will understand fine by the time it becomes relevant.