DVD Corner

Meg 2: The Trench 4K UHD Review

“Meg 2: The Trench” lacks bite (to say the least).

Based on the novel “The Trench” by Steve Alten, “Meg 2: The Trench” is a sequel to 2018’s “The Meg.” At the start of the film, Jonas Taylor is off fighting environmental crimes while simultaneously exploring the Mariana Trench where the Megaladon was last discovered. While on a trip down with a crew that includes Jiuming and Meiying (who stows away), things immediately go awry. Not only are there more Megaladon, but there’s a valuable mineral mining operation led by Driscoll and Montes. To cover up the operation and take over Mantas One, Driscoll, Montes and a traitor attempt to eliminate Jonas and company. While all of this is going on, a rupture occurs in the Trench which causes several creatures (Megaladon included) to escape to the surface world (specifically near a resort called Fun Island).

“The Meg” was already a goofy shark movie, but the sequel ups the ante. From the opening sequence involving a Megaladon jumping out of the water and eating a T-Rex, “Meg 2: The Trench” feels like bad fan fiction come to life. There’s nothing intelligent going on at any second of this movie nor are there any characters worth caring about (unless you find yourself moved by the dynamic between Jonas and his adopted daughter Meiying). Writers Jon Hoeber, Erich Hoeber and Dean Georgaris are more concerned with getting to action set pieces involving underwater attacks, endless sea base corridor running, a bored Jason Statham on a jet ski outrunning Megaladons, submarine rock dodging that resembles a dull theme park ride, a “Jurassic World” knock-off climax on “Fun Island,” and new beast attacks that involve a giant Octopus and Snappers.

It’s hard to believe that British director Ben Wheatley (best known for “High-Rise” and “Free Fire”) helmed this sequel as none of his trademark style is on display here. This feels like a slapped together cartoony CGI spectacle studio project through and through. If that’s your thing, you might be immensely entertained. If not, you’re in for a world of hurt. 

Video/Audio:

Presentation: 2.39:1 2160p. How does it look? A crisp 4K transfer that really highlights all the CGI flaws. 

Audio Track: Dolby Atmos. How does it sound? Every bubble and splash packs a punch in this dynamic Atmos track. 

Extras:
* Digital copy
* “The Making Of Meg 2: The Trench” featurette.
* “Up From The Depths: Even More Beasts”- A look at the new creatures in the sequel.

October 21, 2023 - Posted by nicklyons1 | 4K UHD Review | Jason Statham, Meg 2, Meg 2: The Trench 4K UHD Review, Megaladons, Shark Movie, Sharks, The Meg