‘Den of Thieves 2’ Completely Changed Gerard Butler’s Nick, and It Works

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  • Does Everyone Really Believe Nick Has Become a Criminal?

In a surprising twist, the movie “Den of Thieves 2: Pantera” has been released, and instead of playing the LA cop Nick O’Brien (Gerard Butler) chasing down criminals like before, he finds himself entangled in the criminal world this time. His colleagues at the department seem uninterested in pursuing Donnie Wilson (O’Shea Jackson Jr.) any further since the money Donnie allegedly stole from the Federal Reserve was already scheduled for destruction, making it seem as though no robbery actually occurred. With no missing funds to account for across federal banks, the case appears inconsequential. Pursuing this investigation would potentially damage both the police force and the Federal Reserve’s reputation, so Nick’s efforts appear to be at a standstill. However, he remains resolute and, as usual, takes matters into his own hands.

After a diamond heist on an airport runway in Antwerp, Nick suspects Donnie’s involvement and decides to investigate in Europe, although it’s outside his authority. Using his expired U.S. Marshal badge only as a scare tactic, Nick eventually tracks Donnie down in Nice, France. Contrary to Donnie’s assumptions, their meeting doesn’t lead to an arrest and return to the U.S.; instead, Nick is there to claim a share of the ill-gotten gains. Essentially, Nick has decided to join the criminals’ side. Given his personal and professional life seeming bleak following the events in Den of Thieves, Nick, fed up with his situation, now covets what the crooks possess: money.

What Leads Nick to Switch Sides in ‘Den of Thieves 2’?

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In the opening scenes of “Den of Thieves 2”, Nick is grappling with the repercussions of his past choices, which find him in a family court setting. Following his infidelity and overall poor behavior as depicted in the first movie, Nick is now divorced and appears to have lost all custody of his two daughters. His actions have driven his loved ones away, leaving him isolated and financially ruined. In many aspects, Nick’s predicament presents an ideal starting point for a cop to consider crossing over to the criminal side of the law.

Struggling with the consequences of his mistakes, Nick concentrates on tracking down the criminal who escaped him. Yet, as far as his superiors are concerned, this pursuit is pointless. Despite the bleak outlook, Nick journeys to Europe and locates Donnie. Prior to his trip, there’s no hint that he might switch allegiances. Instead, it appears he intends to apprehend Donnie. However, upon bursting into Donnie’s apartment to lie in wait, Nick surprisingly reveals his eagerness to join Donnie’s latest heist.

Regardless of the unusual circumstances, Donnie isn’t hesitant about involving Nick in the group. As usual, Nick leaves little room for debate. With nothing much left to lose, Nick has strategically positioned himself to join Donnie’s team as a new member. Since all the others are former military or law enforcement, it doesn’t shock anyone that Nick’s shift towards questionable activities is happening. In fact, his background as a cop benefits them by providing an entrance to the vault they intend to rob.

Does Everyone Really Believe Nick Has Become a Criminal?

In the first film, though Nick doesn’t appear to be a corrupt cop, he’s shown to be very close to the ethical boundary. Although he never stole from anyone or harmed fellow cops, he didn’t hesitate to bend the rules if it led to catching criminals. Essentially, he’s comfortable with using strong-arm tactics to get what he wants. It’s also convenient for him that he doesn’t have to confront any of his police colleagues who might unintentionally be affected by his actions.

Since the movie is set in Europe and revolves around stealing from wealthy individuals, it’s evident that Nick doesn’t seem to care about breaking the law. Therefore, Donnie and his team assume Nick is legitimate. Similarly, viewers find themselves in the same position of uncertainty. Throughout the film, there’s no hint that Nick might be double-crossing them. Given what we already know about Nick’s character, it feels plausible that he would grow frustrated with his current circumstances. However, considering the complex nature of the world portrayed in Den of Thieves, there’s likely more to Nick than meets the eye.

By the way, Den of Thieves 2: Pantera is now showing in theaters, and you can stream the original Den of Thieves on Max.

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2025-01-14 04:01