Lethal Weapon 2 (1990)
Lethal Weapon 2 Movie Review is here, and this week we're diving back into one of the greatest action sequels of all time on The Movie Review Podcast, where we don't take the movies or ourselves too seriously. Join Whitey and Damo as they revisit the explosive 1989 classic that proved lightning really can strike twice. With bigger action, bigger laughs, and one unforgettable diplomatic immunity speech, Lethal Weapon 2 remains a benchmark for the buddy cop genre.
After the gritty success of the original film, director Richard Donner returned with Mel Gibson and Danny Glover to deliver a sequel that shifted gears without losing what made the franchise special. Instead of doubling down on the darkness, Lethal Weapon 2 leans heavily into comedy while still delivering spectacular action set pieces, memorable villains and the chemistry that made Martin Riggs and Roger Murtaugh one of cinema's greatest partnerships.
Whitey and Damo discuss whether Lethal Weapon 2 is actually better than the original, and why so many fans continue to rank it among the greatest sequels ever made. Is it worthy of being mentioned alongside Aliens, Terminator 2, and The Empire Strikes Back? Or has nostalgia been doing some heavy lifting?
As always, the boys break down everything that makes the film unforgettable. From the outrageous opening car chase and the destruction of Murtaugh's family station wagon, through to the South African villains hiding behind diplomatic immunity, every iconic scene gets the Born to Watch treatment.
Of course, no discussion of Lethal Weapon 2 would be complete without Leo Getz. Joe Pesci steals almost every scene he's in, introducing one of the franchise's funniest and most quotable characters. Whitey and Damo chat about how Leo changed the series' tone forever, while debating whether the increased focus on comedy was ultimately a strength or a weakness.
There is also plenty of appreciation for Mel Gibson at the absolute peak of his powers. Charismatic, reckless and endlessly entertaining, Riggs remains one of the defining action heroes of the 1980s. Danny Glover's dry reactions provide the perfect balance, proving once again why this pairing remains one of Hollywood's greatest double acts.
Naturally, the boys can't help themselves when it comes to picking apart the film's logic. Why are the LAPD driving family station wagons during high-speed pursuits? Where did that helicopter suddenly appear from? Why does a caravan explode like it's filled with rocket fuel? And how does every South African henchman seem to carry an entire arsenal beneath a sports coat?
The laughs continue with another legendary Snobs Report, a look back at some forgotten gems from 1989, discussion around Richard Donner's incredible directing career, and a celebration of just how good cinema was during the final years of the 1980s. There are plenty of side trips into other classics, including The Omen, Uncle Buck, The Dream Team and more, because one movie conversation is never enough on Born to Watch.
As always, you'll get the Good, the Bad and the Ugly, Film School for F-Wits, trivia, behind-the-scenes stories, box office numbers, memorable performances and plenty of arguments over whether the sequel really surpasses the original.
Whether you grew up watching Lethal Weapon 2 on VHS, caught it at the cinema back in 1989, or you're discovering it for the very first time, this episode is packed with nostalgia, laughs and classic Born to Watch banter.
Join the conversation!
Do you think Lethal Weapon 2 is the best film in the franchise?
Is it one of the greatest action sequels ever made?
Let us know your favourite scenes, quotes and moments by leaving a review, commenting on our socials or joining the Born to Watch community.
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