The Mosley Review: The Accountant 2
Well here's a true rarity of a gem. There are many films out there that don't really scream for a sequel to be made. For the most part, if they're not a major franchise or known adaptation of a book series, they are self contained. The first film was a unique concept that not only delivered the thrills of a good spy thriller, but it also dove into the ideas of how gifted many people on the spectrum are. I truly loved the numbers game and how it drove the story forward and while capturing that fun aspect of an early 2000's action film. There was a possibility to explore more into the world of the characters, but if it had stayed as a one off tale, then it would've been cool. Now comes a new chapter and not only does it delve more into the talents of the people the titular character works with, it actually switches up the tone to fit the brothers more. I loved the multi-layered weaving of the murder mystery and revenge plots that brilliantly link together. But like I said, the real star of this film is the brotherly road trip story that drives the film and made it all the more engaging.
Ben Affleck returns as Christian Wolff / The Accountant and he was even more charming, funny and quick. The way Ben portrays his form of autisim with such respect and I loved that he shows the brilliance of the character more this time. The first film focused on his hardships growing up and now we get to see Christian live and try to have more fun with his life. I loved that we get to see his dedication to his family as we explore his bond with his brother. Jon Bernthal was fantastic and energetic as his estranged brother, Braxton. At times, he was completely unhinged and I loved his dark sense of humor as well. The chemistry between them has never been stronger and it is the classic "big and little brother" bond they share. The bickering and teasing that Braxton does to Christian was all too familiar. I truly loved the county bar scene the most as Christian breaks out of his shell and Braxton cheers him on. Cynthia Addai-Robinson was great as Deputy Director of the Treasury Department's FinCEN, Marybeth Medina. She was the typical by the book of law character that gets in over her head, but it was still fun to watch her investigate and solve the many cases at hand with Christian and Braxton. The team aspect and chemistry they all had together was fun to watch as the tension built. Daniella Pineda was awesome as the assassin, Anaïs. She really handles herself so well in the many action scenes, but that's not all she has to offer. Her story in particular was truly rough and was truly heartbreaking as it unfolds. The way it ends was on so many levels of satisfying. A real scene stealer was Allison Robertson as Justine. It was great to put a face to the automated voice that Christian would take contracts from. Even though she doesn't speak a word because of the character being a mute, you feel her sweetness, strife and fun.
The score by Bryce Dessner serviceable and helped underline the growing dread and tension of the third act. I was truly surprised by the use of space in each scene and how it was shot. Blocking the movement and placements of characters can sometimes be tricky, but this film does it in such a way that was easy to follow. Especially in the small rooms the main characters find themselves in. The action of the third act was excellent and felt like a classic western shootout with precision. With the tonal shift from very serious and sometimes cold, it could be a bit jarring for some, but I welcomed it. The first film was about Christian, but this one was more in the tone and style of Braxton. For an unforeseen sequel, this was a pleasant surprise. Let me know what you thought of the film or my review in the comments below. Thanks for reading!
