Film Review of The Mummy Returns (2001)
source: imdb
Released in 2001, The Mummy Returns is the sequel to The Mummy (1999). The movie brings back the original characters and introduces The Rock, Dwayne Johnson to the franchise and started his own spinoff "The Scorpion King". This time, Rick and the gang are up against not just the mummy but the scorpion king as well.
Plot Summary
source: imdb
The story takes place years after the events of the first movie. Rick O’Connell and Evelyn Carnahan are now married and have a young son named Alex. Their peaceful family life is interrupted when they discover an ancient bracelet connected to the legendary Scorpion King (The Rock), a powerful warrior who made a dangerous pact with the god Anubis in exchange for supernatural power.
When Alex becomes connected to the bracelet, he becomes the target of a group of cultists who want to use him to locate the Scorpion King. Their leader happened to be the reincarnation of Anck-su-Namun, the woman Imhotep loved in the first film. The cultists intend to resurrect Imhotep and use his power to defeat the Scorpion King, who commands a terrifying supernatural army and transfer the control of the army to Imhotep.
Rick and Evelyn again face dangerous enemies and journey through ancient ruins to save their son. Along the way, they receive help from Evelyn's brother Jonathan and the warrior Ardeth Bay. The family must race against time to stop Imhotep and prevent the Scorpion King's army from bringing destruction to the world.
My Thoughts on the Movie
source: imdb
The Mummy Returns continue to combine action, humor and adventure in the movie. Like its the first movie, it takes inspiration from ancient Egyptian mythology and uses it to create a fantastic backstory and history. This lore brought spinoffs of the story of the Scorpion King.
Brendan Fraser once again is great as Rick O’Connell. His character is tough but funny, making him a likable action hero. Rachel Weisz also returns as Evelyn, giving the character more opportunities to demonstrate courage and resourcefulness. Their relationship adds emotional weight to the story, especially because the danger now threatens their child.
The film is more actioned packed the original that reminded me of the second installment of "The Hobbit". There are chases and battles that keep the pace moving. The Scorpion King's lore adds to the mythology although he looks funny now compared to new CGIs.
An important theme is family. Rick and Evelyn are no longer simply adventurers searching for treasure. They are parents willing to risk everything to protect their son. This gives the story about family rather than simple adventure from the first film.
Sequels usually disappoint but The Mummy Returns is one of the exceptions. It's still a good movie to watch if you ignore the poor CGI by today's standards. I recommend it before watching the coming sequel.