Richard Donner’s sequel is only marginally less impressive than the original but was enough to set the law of diminishing returns in motion.
Mel Gibson, as Riggs, and Danny Glover, as Murtaugh, were back with the same unbeatable formula that made Lethal Weapon (1987) the most popular cop-buddy flick of all time.
These guys seem like old friends by now – We know how they live, feel, and think. Riggs is the wild man with the collie, the passion for chilli, and the rage. Murtaugh is the solid family man, the reliable cop who keeps his partner straight.
This time they’re up to their badges kicking butt, battling a new gang of murderous psychos, and babysitting a wimpy mob accountant (Joe Pesci) who becomes a reluctant third member of the team.
The homicidal maniacs are South African fascists with diplomatic immunity, but that doesn’t stop this team from breaking every law in Los Angeles to smash them.
Martin Riggs
Mel Gibson Roger Murtaugh
Danny Glover Leo Getz
Joe Pesci Arjen Rudd
Joss Ackland Pieter Vorstedt
Derrick O’Connor Rika Van Den Haas
Patsy Kensit Trish Murtaugh
Darlene Love Rianne Murtaugh
Traci Wolfe Captain Murphy
Steve Kahan Hans
Mark Rolston Meagan Shapiro
Jenette Goldstein Tim Cavanaugh
Dean Norris Tom Wyler
Juney Smith Eddie Estaban
Nestor Serrano Joseph Ragucci
Philip Suriano
Director
Richard Donner
Video
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