M3GAN 2.0: The Killer Doll Returns with Action-Packed Sequel

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In recent times, it’s become quite effortless to unearth a genuinely chilling horror film that sends shivers down your spine. Over the past year, we’ve been treated to some bone-chilling favorites that could potentially stand the test of time and be regarded as contemporary masterpieces (such as Sinners, The Substance, and Longlegs). However, what I find more challenging is discovering a film that not only scares but also offers an enjoyable experience for the audience when confronting their fears.

M3GAN 2.0

The Film is Scheduled to Premiere on June 27, 2025

This movie is Directed by Gerard Johnstone himself

The Script for this movie has been Written by Gerard Johnstone

The Main Cast includes Allison Williams, Violet McGraw, Amie Donald, Jenna Davis, Brian Jordan Alvarez, Jen Van Epps, Ivanna Sakhno, Timm Sharp, and Jemaine Clement

It is Rated as PG-13 due to strong violence, graphic scenes, some strong language, sexual content, and brief drug references

The Running Time for this movie is 2 hours (120 minutes)

In the late 1900s, numerous campy horror movies emerged, providing plenty of notable examples, but it was the simultaneous thrill and amusement of 2023’s M3GAN that demonstrated audiences prefer a mix of laughter and fear. This trend persists with its follow-up, M3GAN 2.0. Yet, M3GAN also consistently shows that her creepy robot persona conceals capabilities beyond typical slasher fare.

I’m thrilled to share that the skilled filmmaker Gerard Johnstone teamed up once more with Akela Cooper, the original screenwriter, and the horror franchise powerhouse duo of James Wan and Jason Blum for the production of M3GAN. This reunion proved beneficial as the movie managed to maintain its quality in its second installment. Contrary to expectations, a sequel about a lethal pre-teen AI doll could have easily flopped, but not here. In fact, it seems that the sequel surpasses the original! What I appreciate most is the variety each offers, making them appealing choices for different moods.

In the potential sequel to M3GAN, instead of concocting an outlandish explanation for Gemma, played by Allison Williams, reviving the android M3GAN, we might encounter a plot twist similar to “Terminator 2: Judgement Day”. This time, when a more dangerous robot emerges as a threat, it’s not about friendship turning sour but rather an alignment of interests – “the enemy of my enemy is my friend”. This shift in direction makes the sequel less horror-centric than the original M3GAN, yet it proves to be a refreshing change for the better.

Writer/director Gerard Johnstone understood the assignment with his surprisingly action-heavy second M3GAN movie.

In the challenge of creating sequels that rekindle the charm of the initial film, M3GAN 2.0 manages to seamlessly expand upon what made the original captivating while introducing something novel and distinct from the previous storyline. This is largely due to the characters starting in significantly different positions than their last appearance. Gemma, who once mismanaged robotic technology with M3GAN, has transformed into a vocal proponent for AI regulation. On the other hand, her niece Cady (Violet McGraw), is now older and more self-assured compared to her previous portrayal.

Instead of M3GAN seemingly being destroyed, there’s a surprise when another robot like her emerges. This one is a military model named AMELIA (Ivanna Sakhno), short for Autonomous Military Engagement Logistics and Infiltration Android. As a horror enthusiast, I find the horror aspects thrilling, but it’s refreshing to see the franchise explore more science-fiction and action elements that have been hinted at all along, even though the Blumhouse production may lead audiences to expect something different.

In the sequel, titled M3GAN 2.0, we witness larger-scale action, featuring thrilling car chases and numerous intense confrontations between M3GAN and AMELIA. The fate of the world hangs in the balance, adding a sense of urgency to the story. Compared to its predecessor, the narrative of M3GAN 2.0 takes things up a notch, as it pushes the boundaries to rival the legendary status of the original M3GAN, making for an exciting progression in the series.

The entrance of Ivanna Sakhno’s AMELIA offers unexpected depth and (more) fun to the M3GAN sequel.

In the discussion about M3GAN 2.0, it’s worth noting that Amelia fits seamlessly into the narrative. Sakhno delivers an electrifying and impressive portrayal of Amelia, contrasting starkly with her counterpart in various aspects. Unlike her counterpart, Amelia is not characterized by humor, immaturity, or inappropriate jokes related to femininity; instead, she embodies the role of this cold, metallic assassin perfectly. She won’t malfunction or perform a dance before eliminating her next target, and she poses a threat to Gemma and Cady. In response, Gemma is compelled to refurbish M3GAN, enhancing her with several upgrades to defend themselves from Amelia.

It’s delightful watching Gemma and Cady engage with M3GAN post-first film, as well as witnessing the reimagined, more empathetic version of the killer doll within the series. It’s essential to remember that her programming was initially designed for Cady’s protection, which remains her primary function. Of course, there’s a dance break incorporated in the storyline.

M3GAN 2.0’s plot can get convoluted and a bit too wacky but not enough to steer away from the fun.

In the sequel of M3GAN 2.0, there’s a wealth of humor that will leave you in stitches. This is largely due to Jemaine Clement joining the cast as a tech CEO, trying to recruit Gemma to his company, but she proves uncooperative. The previous actions of Gemma might have seemed absurd and misguided, but this time around, Williams’ character is in on the joke. It makes the movie even more enjoyable. Additionally, Gemma and M3GAN create an amusing dynamic, while McGraw’s Cady serves to keep things grounded.

Similar to the original, M3GAN 2.0 maintains a delightful PG-13 family vibe that feels slightly off-kilter, yet unaltered in this sequel. Despite the enjoyable elements, it delves into its storyline with unnecessary gravity, creating a complex backstory and predictable plot twists. However, its self-assuredness allows viewers to overlook some questionable moments and still find value in its unique charm. Essentially, M3GAN is maturing into a bold, murderous doll, demonstrating even more menace as a protagonist. After this escapade, I’m eagerly anticipating the mischief she’ll get up to next.

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2025-06-25 19:08