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'M3GAN 2.0' Review - An Absurdly Good Time

Logline: The murderous doll who captivated pop culture in 2023 is back. And this time she's not alone. At times, as the world constantly evolves, the generational gaps may feel miles apart; however, one thing consistently remains true: we have to listen to the kids. Children tend to see things for what they are, have no filter, and are usually brutally honest. A five-year-old can flat-out hurt your feelings. Nevertheless, they also think outside the box, because for them, there is no box to confine themselves to. Every form of entertainment has shown us that the young ones always see the ghost, talk to the monster, hear the secrets, witness the crime, solve the mystery, and the adults never listen. At some point, we tend to forget we were also young with ideas and answers to the problems, and we were told we didn't understand or it's too complicated. We've also neglected to remember that most difficulties have somewhat simple solutions. If the kids have an idea or potential resolution, let them cook. 'You programmed me to protect someone, and I intend to do it.' As the saying goes, the internet is forever. That being said, Gemma should've known that getting rid of a highly adaptable, homicidal AI would be harder than destroying a physical body. Written and directed by Gerard Johnstone, M3GAN 2.0 is an absurdly good time. Everything you loved about M3GAN has been turned up to the max. This exciting sequel has more attitude, more dance moves, a larger body count, and double the androids. However, there are a few changes. Where its predecessor was heavy in its horror bag, the vibrant 2.0 shakes things up with a heaping side of sci-fi and action that you can liken to Terminator 2 . Nevertheless, its eerie elements remain intact as the pointed feature becomes increasingly more brutal and grim. Even as this T-800 versus T-1000 or Vision versus Ultron showdown unfolds, the story becomes akin to The First Omen . Despite the tension and terrors, M3gan's sharp jabs and quick wit have also been updated, offering a fun and comedic balance. She's like an unruly, angsty teen whose 'protect Cady at all costs' programming puts any and everyone in some sort of danger. Its campy personality is over-the-top in the most entertaining ways possible. M3GAN 2.0 is a film that knows exactly what it is and isn't shy about it. It's twice the danger and twice the fun. 'Maybe your allegiance to them has made you weak.' Doubling down on its previous messaging about the dangers of our reliance on technology, it goes even further by highlighting negligent, unregulated government use and expansion. Moreover, technology should be a tool and not a replacement. However, more than anything, this is a story of trust and second chances. It's about admitting when you're wrong and working to repair relationships, especially when it comes to parenting. Mirroring some of reality's most ridiculous people and ideas, M3GAN 2.0 is a great gateway into many topical conversations. The film is flashy and entertaining, humorous and thrilling, and while it is a slight departure, it is a worthwhile sequel. The soundtrack is groove-worthy, the action is surprisingly good, and M3gan's creepy factor elevates as the uncanny valley feeling is stronger than ever. The ensemble cast plays great off one another with a greater sense of chemistry. Johnstone's direction makes the multi-genre outing incredibly enjoyable. And while cinema is currently in its franchise-heavy era, this is one that I don't mind continuing. Is the follow-up better than the original? It's hard to say since they are so different, but I'm leaning towards yes. Fans may be divided, but one thing is for sure: this second installment definitely has more to offer. Its rewatchability is high. (from left) Cady (Violet McGraw) and Gemma (Allison Williams) in M3GAN 2.0, directed by Gerard Johnstone. © 2025 Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved. Photo Credit: Universal Pictures Pace & Pop As the film takes a hard turn into sci-fi action-adventure territory, the pace becomes more evenly balanced. While still holding onto its horror identity with some dark aesthetics, Frankenstein-esque moments, and varying levels of creepiness, it is firmly within the genre. What popped for me was how unhinged M3gan's banter was. She speaks her mind and pulls zero punches. It may be juvenile at times, but it's hilarious. (from left) M3gan and Amelia (Ivanna Sakhno) in M3GAN 2.0 directed by Gerard Johnstone. © 2025 Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved. Photo Credit: Universal Pictures Characters & Chemistry Starring: Allison Williams, Violet McGraw, Brian Jordan Alvarez, Jen Van Epps, Amie Donald, Jenna Davis, Ivanna Sakhno, Aristotle Athari, Timm Sharp, Jemaine Clement This ensemble cast doesn't necessarily have any standout performances, but they all work well together. Gemma ( Allison Williams) continues to say and do the wrong things when it comes to parenting her niece, Cady (Violet McGraw). As the genius aunt stretches herself too thin by wearing too many hats, her relationship with M3gan grows more complicated. McGraw has a stronger outing this go around as Cady has grown in age and intellect. Attempting to follow in her aunt's footsteps, Cady is tech-savvy, headstrong, and plays by her own rules. Of course, like the first film, they rarely see eye to eye. Brian Jordan Alvarez was given more breathing to bring the funny as Cole, and it works very well. Ivanna Sakhno killed it as the new android on the block, Amelia. She's deadly, seemingly unstoppable, and looks badass. Much of her performance is executed with her face, specifically her eyes, and you can't look away. Jemaine Clement is ridiculously cringey as Alton Appleton, and I loved every second of it. And lastly, bringing M3gan to life are the duo of Amie Donald and Jenna Davis (voice). The Model 3 generative android upped the ante in every way in this sequel. She's smarter, craftier, more violent, and has double the sass. I don't think we've seen the last of her. M3GAN 2.0 hacks its way into theaters on June 27, 2025. Stay safe and don't make A.I. mad. Rated: PG-13 Runtime: 1h 59m Director: Gerard Johnstone Screenplay: Gerard Johnstone Story: Gerard Johnstone and Akela Cooper Based on: characters created by Akela Cooper & James Wan Producers: James Wan, Jason Blum, Allison Williams Executive Producers: Gerard Johnstone, Adam Hendricks, Greg Gilreath, Michael Clear, Judson Scott, Mark D. Katch