Hard Target 2 is a 2016 American action film directed by Roel Reiné, serving as a direct-to-video sequel to the 1993 film Hard Target directed by John Woo. The film continues the legacy of intense action and survival themes, bringing a fresh story to the franchise.
Plot Summary:
The film opens with Wes Baylor (Scott Adkins), a former MMA champion haunted by a tragic accident in the ring that led to the death of his best friend. Struggling with guilt and unable to return to the sport, Wes drifts through Southeast Asia, participating in underground fights to make a living.
The Proposition:
Wes’s life takes a dramatic turn when he is approached by Aldrich (Robert Knepper), a wealthy and sinister businessman. Aldrich offers Wes a chance to participate in a high-stakes fight in Myanmar, promising a substantial reward. Desperate for a fresh start and intrigued by the potential payout, Wes reluctantly agrees.
The Hunt Begins:
Upon arriving in Myanmar, Wes discovers the true nature of the event. He is not a participant in a traditional fight but the prey in a deadly human hunt. Aldrich and his elite group of hunters, including the ruthless Madden (Temuera Morrison), have organized a deadly game where Wes must survive in the dense jungle while being pursued by well-equipped and merciless hunters.
Survival and Strategy:
Armed with only basic survival gear and his combat skills, Wes uses his wits and resourcefulness to navigate the treacherous terrain. The hunters, armed with high-tech weapons and tracking devices, underestimate Wes’s determination and combat prowess. As the hunt progresses, Wes turns the tables on his pursuers, using guerrilla tactics and his knowledge of martial arts to outsmart and defeat them one by one.
Alliances and Betrayals:
During his flight, Wes encounters Tha (Ann Truong), a local woman whose village has been terrorized by Aldrich’s operations. Tha becomes an unexpected ally, guiding Wes through the jungle and providing crucial assistance. Their bond deepens as they share their stories and common desire for justice.
The Final Showdown:
The climax of the film sees Wes confronting Aldrich and Madden in a brutal and explosive showdown. Utilizing his fighting skills and newfound resilience, Wes battles through the hunters’ traps and ambushes, determined to bring an end to the deadly game and seek retribution for those harmed by Aldrich’s sadistic pursuits.
Epilogue:
With the hunters defeated and Aldrich’s operation exposed, Wes emerges victorious but scarred by the ordeal. He finds a sense of redemption and a new purpose, vowing to use his skills to protect the innocent and stand against those who exploit the vulnerable.
Hard Target 2 delivers a high-octane blend of martial arts action and survival thriller elements, staying true to the spirit of the original film while introducing new characters and settings. Directed by Roel Reiné and starring Scott Adkins, the film offers an adrenaline-fueled ride through a deadly game of cat and mouse in the unforgiving jungles of Southeast Asia.
