Reviews (200)

A purposely trashy thriller
While Final Destination 2 follows the plot of it's predecessor, the similarities between the films stops there. The teen-melodrama and too good looking for their own good young stars are replaced (for the most part) with well orchestrated accident scenes and some very nice gore effects. It all starts when Kimberly (A.J. Cook) has a premonition of a huge multi-car pile up and inadvertantly saves herself and a few others. And then one by one, death comes calling with some over the top computer assisted and well orchestrated grisly deaths. Ali Larter reprises her role from the first film as Clear Rivers, and Tony Todd returns in his cameo role as well. Director David Ellis has crafted a purposely cheesy, trashy, and fun horror film that both outshines and pales in comparison to the original; and while it is very graphic and grisly for a mainstream horror film, it is never too mean spirited. The Infinifilm DVD is another fine piece of product from New Line (although I personally like the Platinum Series of DVD's more), and the Bits & Pieces featurette provides enough ample entertainment for horror afficiandos.

Death By Design
The first Final Destination film turned out better than I thought it was going be. After a friend recommended the DVD to me, it ended up being a really good teen horror flick with a twist. The usual carnage, sex, and contrived premise was gone. In its place was a likeable cast, clever set ups, and just the right amount of gore...without someone running around in a mask. That said, my hopes for FD 2 were raised. In the end, the sequel is solid, but it still didn't have quite the same zip of the original.

The sequel picks up a year after the events of FD. Kimberly Corman (A.J. Cook) and her friends head out on a fun road trip. While on the highway, Kim senses that something ominous is about to happen. However, due to a series of strange events, she and a select group of motorists are spared a tragic end in a multi-car accident. Or are they? With help from Clear (Ali Larter, the sole survivor of FD), Thomas Burke (Michael Landes),
and Mr. Bludworth (Tony Todd), Kim tries to beat death itself and change its sinister plans.

Directed by David R. Ellis, FD 2, has more clever ways for folks to meet their end. As with most horror sequels, the gross out factor is turned up a few notches here, and while I enjoyed the arc for Larter's character, with the gimmick exposed, the premise isn't as "new" The script by a whole new writing team, has its ups and downs, but basicly follows the outline of the original. Some characters are 3 demensional, while others are not. I know it's not shakespeare. But the chemistry of script and casting is important for this film sequel, with only 2 actors from the first flick present, its even more important.

As part of New Line's Infinifilm DVD product line, FD 2 is packed with some good bonus material, that compensates some of film's troubles. The extras can be accessed the usual way-or in the Infinifilm mode while you watch the film-in bits and pieces. The filmmakers, Ellis, producer Craig Perry, and writers Eric Bress, and J. Mackye Gruber is ok. The deleted/alternate scenes are meaty, but don't really add much to the final version. They can be watched with or wthout commentary. The documentary Bringing Death To Life, takes a look at the film's stunts, special effects, and make-up secrets. Trailers, music videos, and screen tests are here as well. Going beyond the film is a fact track and 2 featurettes. The Terror Gauge looks at how the mind and body react to watching a horror film; Cheating Death-Beyond And Back examines the near death phenomenom (That's really great). Rounding out the extras is some DVD-ROM content: script-to-screen, games, wallpapers, and links to internet websites. Viewers can watch the film in either, the widescreen, or fullscreen format

Despite my issues with the film, FD 2 is solid enough, along with some fine extras, to recommend on disc. But don't forget the original is out there as well. *** and half stars

Not your standard teen slasher
From an orchestrated car pile-up that puts just about any action movies of the last 4 years to shame to an increasingly creative and surprising casualty list, Final Destination 2 just plain outdistances the genre's competiton.

FD2 is not blessed with a decent plot that does not see our clavacade of victims simply run upstairs to be slaughtered by axe or chainsaw. Instead, viewers will find themselves gasping at the different, and in some cases, highly unorthodox manner death is visited upon the characters.

Although it's never going to be a film classic, FD2 has carved out a niche as a very creative, well above-par horror/suspense movie that plays by no rules but it's own. 5 stars for being just what it is--a scary movie.

Whata Ride!!!
This was an absolutley original and breathtaking horror/sci-fi film to watch. It featured some of the best visual and special effects as well as some amazing choreographed stunts. In my view this was a great movie due to its overwhelming originally and script. The horrific opening pileup sequence is so well shot and will leave you with your pulse racing and your mouth on the floor, literally. The movie, although not nearly as dark and sinister as the first film goes much more deeper and more detailed on all of its elaborate death scenes. The originally factor is shown by three different elements. First and foremost, the fact that the entire movie was filmed w/ out the use of night. It goes to show that you do not need darkness to set the eerie tone of a horror movie. Second, this is the fist teen horror film that doesn't resort to using just teens. In the beginning of the film when we were introduced to the four teens going on a road trip, I was reluctant to want to sit through a complete re-run of the first film. It was nice to have a little mix of the age groups in this film. Thirdly, the movie featured some never before heard of actors, which in this case the script, and horrific death sequences were the real stars. All and all, this was a very unpredicatable and fun film to watch. The DVD features the infinifilm featurette , which contains the making of, and some more interactive menu options, My recomendation, GET IT AS FAST AS YOU CAN BEFORE YOUR TIME RUNS OUT!!!!!

FINAL DESTINATION 2
THIS IS MY 3RD FAV.MOVIE. I LOVED IT.IT WAS MUCH BETTER THAN THE FIRST AND MUCH MORE ORIGINAL. THE DEATH SCENES R MUCH MORE ELABERITE AND MORE BLOODY. IT ALSO HAS A SINCE OF HUMOR. AND ITS GOT 1 OF THE BEST DVD COVERS I HAVE EVER SEEN. ... Read more

Amazon.com

A lot has changed in the biker-movie genre since Hell's Angels on Wheels, and Torque may be the new benchmark of feverish chopper action. Martin Henderson plays Cary, a speed king and relatively civilized outlaw with a knack for annoying everyone, including drug smugglers, the FBI, an ex-girlfriend, and, worst of all, biker gang leader Trey (Ice Cube), who thinks Cary killed his brother. On the run from everyone, Cary survives by playing all sides against one another. But the story is less important than the frantic, over-the-top, tongue-in-cheek action surrounding it. The Fast and the Furious producer Neal H. Moritz is responsible for this crazy, violent, yet appealingly sardonic cowboys-on-wheels piece. --Tom Keogh ... Read more

Reviews (34)

It's a simple math problem.
Add xXx with 2 Fast, 2 Furious, minus the great looking leading men (and women), minus memorable lines, minus originality (both in screenplay and car/bike chase scenes) and it equals the terrible Torque.

Nothing was new, original, or worth watching if you saw and liked xXx, The Fast and the Furious, and 2 Fast, 2 Furious because you will get nothing more for Torque than a good two stars lower than you rated those previous movies. This movie did TERRIBLE in the box office compared to the other three.

Ice Cube is no Vin Diesel (not even Tyrese for that matter), and Martin Henderson is a much older and more average version of Paul Walker. The only near-leading lady (if you don't count the 5 minute cameo of the pretty Christina Milian) is easily upstaged by all the extras. So obviously this copy-cat movie isn't even saved by a good looking cast.

The acting was very average, but that's to be expected since not many members of the cast have a long movie credit list. The one-liners were downright silly at times, not that there were many to being with.

The basic plot was a biker guy (after coming back from 6 months in Thailand running from the police) gets framed for a murder by another group of bikers because "Ford" (Martin, our main character) won't return the other-bikers' bikes that have drugs in them. Did I mention the man they killed is the brother of the leader in ANOTHER biker gang (this gang happens to be a -ridiculously- urban group for a gang who's in the middle of nowhere) and he goes after Ford too? The gallant Ford, his two friends and his girlfriend have to clear his name. Of course, cars are blown up, people die, car/bike chases ensue and all that jazz.

It sounds complicated because the movie (obviously) tries to hard but the movie is surprisingly (err...well not THAT surprisingly) forgettable.

I generously gave it 2 Stars because it reminded me to give even more credit to xXx and the t.F.a.t.F. and it's sequel. The blatant (and repeated) stealing of the great ending computer generated scene in xXx and it's -desperate- attempt to have more dazzling action scenes than The Fast and the Furious made three years prior to Torque.

This movie doesn't succeed, in any way. Maybe four years ago, but not after the handfuls of better action and action/drama flicks that have hit the box office in the past three.

This is not a film for the cynical.
I see no reason to not like this movie if you paid money to go see it. If you didn't realize it would be a cheesy action flick with clique driven dialogue, you are so completely ignorant on your movie selections that you disserve to be disappointed.
The plot is a so recycled I can't even remember what film should get the credit for using it originally. The dialogue is so corny that the characters even make fun of each other after delivering their one-liners. The action is such over-the-top physics-defying fluff that it comes off as a science fiction film, and a good one at that.
Martin Henderson and Monet Mauzer act extremely well with the limited dialogue they were given. It seemed as though they knew how over-the top it was and just had fun with it, which makes for a very enjoyable viewing experience. The thing that sets this film apart from movies like The Fast and The Furious, Two Fast Two Furious or Biker Boyz is that it doesn't take itself nearly as serious as those films do.
Torque is director Joseph Kahn's first feature film. His background includes a celebrated career as a music video director and it shows.
So, if you know going into this movie that it is basically an eighty-one minute music video, and that concept is not offensive, you should have a wonderful time. If that doesn't sound like your bag, don't waste your time by going to see it then further waste your time by writing a review of the film like you thought it was going to get the Oscar for best picture of the year.

I wouldn't watch it again.
I didn't have high expectations from a this movie from the start but it was far worse than I ever thought it could be. Most of the stunts are completely rediculous. I've never heard of people "bunny hopping" a 450 lb. crotch rocket 10 feet in the air or fist fighting on two bikes weaving through traffic at what appears to be warp speed (whatever that is). The only reason I would watch it again would be if I'm drunk and want to pass out.

What Was I Thinking ?
Ice Cube is one of the greatest rappers of all-time. "Torque" continues the string of cinematic evidence that he shouldn't give up his day job.

Great cinematography and incredible bikes!

Delivers action and fun
People make the mistake of going into an action/racing movie like this and expecting realism. The idea of this movie is to escape reality and have fun. If you watch this movie with that in mind then you'll love it. As an action flick it's got some great scenes and it one-ups countless previous action movies. Noone complained about MI:2 when the motorcycle tires mysteriously changed to nobbies. Why? Because it's JUST A MOVIE meant for entertainment. The action is what fans are after, even if it's a little off-the-wall. I enjoyed Torque. You will too, if you aren't looking to be a stickler about realism. ... Read more

Description

Biker Cary Ford (Martin Henderson) is in possession of several motorcycles belonging to a ruthless drug dealer. Now he's putting the squeeze on Ford in an attempt to retrieve the bikes, which have something a little more valuable than gas in their tanks. ... Read more

Reviews (30)

Penn,Wright & Travolta meet the Cassavetes.
It took me a couple of viewings before I realised what a good film this is. It's satisfying in so many ways. The theme is love of course, but don't let that put you off. It's the kind of intense soul-mate love, Cassevetes' style. Nick Cassevetes does a nice job & very stylish too. The great thing about this movie is the performances. Sean Penn is outstanding,as usual,& Robin Wright pulls off her best performance as Sean's wife~(deja vu). Travolta is Travolta, which is fine by me & a comfortable role for him for a change.

Disparity of response
If you read the various reviews of this movie, you will find an amazing array of responses to it. I think this is largely a function of the horrid marketing of this movie. When my friend recmmended that I watch it, I did a once-over of its packaging and decided I wasn't interested. He insisted, and so I reluctantly agreed to watch it. Despite it's packaging, this is not a sentimental romantic comedy in the "Pretty Woman" or "Look Who's Talking" vein. If this is the sort of movie you like, you should move on and not waste your time with this.

The movie is divided into two parts. The first focuses on the troubled relationship of derelict couple Eddie and Moe (played by real-life spouses Sean and Robin Wright Penn). Penn's character is dissolute, and puts Moe in the bad position of being vulnerable to the sleazy advances of a neighbor (played well by The Sopranos' James Gandolfini). When Eddie finds out what happens as a result, he becomes steadily unhinged. His performance in a barroom scene is one of the most convincing portrayals of drunken progressive madness I have seen on film.

The second part of the film benefits mainly from the introduction of John Travolta in a role that mercifully pulls back from stretching his limited acting range. This IS the Travolta we guiltily derived pleasure from before he decided he was a mega-action flick star. What follows is a somewhat unlikely but morally and emotionally challenged dilemma for Moe (Robin Penn Wright). While viewers who tend to view life in rather black-and-white terms will be horrified by this portion of the movie, open-minded viewers will have the opportunity to analyze the various components of the ensuing relationships and positions of the players. It is troublesome and problematic and so avoids easy answers or judgements. What's great about the film, unlike other indie films that revel in their dispassion, is that it is not afraid to allow you to feel for these characters deeply, despite their many flaws. The performances are great, and the movie stands up to repeated viewings, so I highly recommend the film. Besides, it's probably your only opportunity to find out how to make a "Siberian Mist".

She's So Lovely
I didn't like this movie. I watch it and the very next day I found myself thinking about how that movie ended and how it bothered me. I will never watch this movie again and I will let my friends and family know. For someone to actually leave their life behind, a wonderful family, and children for a crazy person who can't even stable himself out is pathetic. I just don't like the fact that she pick a messed up person to replace probably the best 4 people in her life. They should have ended it differently and maybe then I would like it, but for a moive to bother me after a night of viewing, I wished that I would have never stayed up to watch it.

Sean Penn and John Travolta rock the hizay
this is about Maureen playd by Robin Wright Penn(married to SEan Penn in real life) and her boyfriend Eddie Quinn(Sean Penn) and he goes crazy and he is sent away in a mental institute for ten years, realizing that Maureen divorced him, married Joey(John Travolta) and had 2 kids with him and she also had Penn's daughter Jeannie as well. the story sorta bores until Penn snaps and delivers a honest and true performance as Eddie, and its also boosted up by the snapping John Travolta(man is he good). other cast includes Harry Dean Stanton, Debi Mazar, James Gandolfini, Burt Young, Gena Rowlands and Chloe Webb. a good view and the 2 lead males are perfect, like in your face style.

Robin Wright rocks!
Watch this movie if just to admmire Robin Wright's excellent performance in the first half. The second half didn't require that much acting from her. In fact, in my opinion, the whole movie falls apart after the point where Eddie is released from the institution. The first part of the movie really draws you in and it feels real. You may not admire the characters but it's an accurate depiction of how life is for some people. I consider this a very good, entertaining movie, compared to all the usual [stuff] that's out there. ... Read more