Netflix viewers are binge-watching Meg 2: The Trench, an explosive action thriller dubbed a ‘cheesy masterpiece’ that has rocketed to the number two spot on the streaming service’s movie charts. It outpaces hits like Barbie and Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man, trailing only the fresh release Thrash, another water-based creature feature.
Plot and Stars
Released in 2023, this sequel to the 2018 original stars Jason Statham as Jonas Taylor, who heads a research team plunging into the ocean’s uncharted depths. Chaos erupts when a shady mining venture threatens their dive, sparking a high-stakes fight against massive prehistoric sharks and greedy adversaries. The team must outmaneuver, outthink, and outswim their deadly pursuers in a pulse-pounding survival saga.
Reception Breakdown
Critics gave it a modest 27% on Rotten Tomatoes, critiquing some special effects and straightforward dialogue. Audiences, however, embrace it as pure escapism, awarding a solid 72% score. Fans praise its relentless action, calling it the ideal ‘popcorn flick’ that delivers thrills without pretense.
Fan Favorites and Quotes
Viewers rave about the upgraded action and suspense. One shared: “I liked this sequel much more than the first film. More action and suspense, and an improvement in every way. The last third of the film was very well done.”
Another likened it to classics: “The Jurassic Park on water is here and it’s a splash of terror. Great movie for shark fans and nostalgic to Tremors fans… Better story than the first, more suspense than the first too. Best Shark sequel movie since Sharknado 2 and Jaws 4.”
A third viewer nailed its vibe: “It is Mission Impossible underwater and then progresses to Jurassic Park/Jaws on steroids so if that’s what you like go for it.” Others cheered: “We loved it for what it was! A lot of action and some unbelievable stunts.”
One fan called it “a feel-good exciting cheesy masterpiece of silly and over the top action adventure served with subtle parody satire and surgical wit. A thrilling parade of reptiles, bad guys and good guys… So much action nonsense goes on but it lands on its feet as a score of 10.”
Jason Statham devotees gush too: “I am a huge Jason Statham fan… This movie…this is how they did it…and, in my opinion, as a sequel, it passed with flying colours. If you too either: like action movies, are a Jason Statham fan, and/or loved the first Meg movie, then you will love this one.”
Finally, a candid take: “They delivered exactly what’s expected and it ain’t Shakespeare. It’s unapologetic for what entertainment it provides: great action, stupid dialog, a fragmented story line, amazing stunts and sharks, sharks and more sharks. Good mindless entertainment.”
Meg 2: The Trench streams now on Netflix.
