Meg 2: The Trench

Meg 2: The Trench, also known as Shark 2 in some areas, is a science fiction action film that was released in 2023. Directed by Ben Wheatley, this movie is a sequel to the popular 2018 film The Meg. The story is based on the 1999 novel The Trench by Steve Alten.

The film features a talented cast, including Jason Statham, who reprises his role as Jonas Taylor, alongside Wu Jing, Sophia Cai, and Cliff Curtis. The screenplay is co-written by Jon Hoeber, Erich Hoeber, and Dean Georgaris, who also contributed to the first movie.

Plot Overview

Set six years after the events of the first film, Jonas Taylor now battles environmental crimes while helping a team from Mana One explore the depths of the Mariana Trench, home to the megalodon. After the tragic loss of his wife, Suyin Zhang, Jonas is raising her teenage daughter, Meiying, with the help of her uncle, Jiuming Zhang. The film kicks off with Jonas and Jiuming embarking on a routine submersible dive into the Trench, leading them to confront not only giant sharks but also a mercenary mining operation led by a vengeful villain.

The film features intense underwater battles as the crew must navigate dangers posed by the megalodons and other sea creatures. Their mission turns into a fight for survival when they discover illegal mining activities that endanger their research and lives. Statham's character, along with the team, must use all their skills to survive against both the monstrous sea creatures and the mercenaries who threaten their mission.

Release Information

Meg 2: The Trench premiered at the Shanghai International Film Festival on 09 June 2023, before hitting theaters in the United States on 04 August 2023. The movie has achieved significant box office success, grossing $397.7 million globally against a budget of $129–139 million.

Reception

The film received mixed reviews from critics. On the review aggregator site Rotten Tomatoes, it holds a 27% approval rating from critics, indicating that while it has its fun moments, the story lacks coherence. Critics noted that the film sometimes loses focus, prioritizing action over plot development.

Despite the negative reviews, audiences seemed to enjoy it, giving it a CinemaScore of "B–". Comments from viewers and certain critics highlighted the movie's entertaining and campy nature, making it a fun watch for fans of the genre.

As the movie's success continues, there are discussions about a potential third installment. Director Ben Wheatley expressed hope to continue the story based on the novels by Alten, indicating that there may be more underwater adventures ahead.

Final Thoughts

Meg 2: The Trench presents a thrilling blend of science fiction and action, appealing to fans who enjoy shark-themed adventures. While it may not have received universal acclaim, its captivating visuals and intense sequences make it a noteworthy entry in the franchise.