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
