Meg 2: The Trench (2023)

I thought the original Meg movie was alright, so I decided to give Meg 2: The Trench (let’s just call it The Trench from here on) a shot. In The Trench, Jonas Taylor (played by Jason Statham) returns to the ocean to confront a significant threat — a group of sea monsters that have been unleashed from the deep!

The acting in The Trench is decent, although not particularly noteworthy. Jason Statham does his usual competent job as the main character but the supporting cast doesn’t leave a lasting impression. The characters themselves lack development or complexity. The story follows the formulaic structure of most monster movies without much deviation from the norm. While survival is obviously the theme, it’s not explored in any way. The movie’s tone is also inconsistent with moments of tension and horror mixed with cheesy one-liners and exaggerated action scenes.

As for directing by Ben Wheatley, it’s competent but not remarkable. The film’s score is forgettable, without any standout tracks or memorable highlights. While the cinematography’s adequate, some of the effects are hit or miss. Some of the sea creatures are pretty impressive, while others seem like they were taken out of a low-budget film.

The editing feels a bit disjointed with certain scenes appearing rushed and others overly prolonged. The movie’s pacing is uneven with moments of action followed by extended periods of explanation. And the dialogue is utterly forgettable with zero standout lines or memorable moments.

The Trench is a monster movie that essentially matches the original. Although there are moments of suspense and excitement, the film falls short due to its storyline, shallow characters, and inconsistent tone. If you’re a fan of the first film you might find this sequel enjoyable. But if you’re seeking a substantial cinematic experience, it may leave you disappointed.

(In cinemas in Australia – check your local movie guide for show times.)