One of the best Netflix films typically get a sequel, however that’s not gone down too nicely for 2020’s The Previous Guard. Its sequel is a part of every little thing coming to Netflix in July 2025, however after arriving on the platform final week, critics and followers alike have given the superhero motion movie an enormous thumbs down.
For those who’re not accustomed to the plot, Charlize Theron performs Andy, who leads a bunch of immortal mercenaries which can be in a position to heal themselves. Within the sequel film, they face off in opposition to a brand new enemy within the title of defending humanity, all of the whereas coping with a long-lost immortal’s return.
Sadly, many have highlighted issues with the movie, together with an undeveloped script and an inexpensive general look, which have been cited as causes to not hassle with The Previous Guard 2. Nonetheless, the sequel has managed to make it into Netflix’s prime 10 most-watched films, and I believe there’s an ignored purpose for why it ought to keep there.
Why I like to recommend watching The Previous Guard 2
Spoilers observe for The Previous Guard 2.
Two phrases: Charlize Theron. Extra particularly, 4 phrases: Charlize Theron’s main romance. Minimize by the noise of opinions and enraged social media posts, and also you’ll discover a deserved appreciation for the will-they-won’t-they love on the film’s centre. Andy has an unstated reference to Quỳnh (Veronica Ngô), an immortal who was once linked to The Previous Guard. We met the pair through the first movie, however the sequel brings followers ever-closer to a possible Andy-Quỳnh kiss.
It doesn’t occur, however that’s nearly not the purpose. The Previous Guard 2 won’t be hitting all of the beats of a well-crafted movie, however it’s taking part in this explicit storyline to its benefit. By taking the time to develop what’s between them within the background, there will likely be a extra satisfying payoff in the long term – and which means the elevated risk of The Previous Guard 3.
Even when that doesn’t occur – Andy and Quỳnh clearly solely have eyes for one another even after 500 years alive. Netflix ought to be praised for exploring a distinct type of vulnerability and illustration .It’s not an outright LGBTQ+ movie, however the brand new Netflix film is giving us vary in its love, and we are able to all get one thing from that.
