M:i 2 - A Cheesy, Action-packed Thriller

Movies are art - paintings in motion. And, as with all art, beauty is in the eyes of the beholder. In my opinion, you only need a few simple ingredients to make a good action flick: Good acting, a decent plot, and the cinematography to match.

"Casino Royale" is a spectacular example and exceeds expectations by redefining 007, basically stripping him of all the gadgets and portraying him as a man with a license to kill launching into a world of deception. The tension builds and builds and builds as he is simply sitting at a poker game across from his target - who secretly, calculatingly turns the tables on him. 

"Mission: Impossible" is relatively similar as Ethan Hunt sets off to find the mole in the IMF, ending in exposing the mole, of course hitting his emotional breaking point when he discovers it's the team leader. 

When both movies came out, they were new, exciting, and satisfying. Unfortunately, someone hacked into the M:I and reconciled the DNA of the film, altering it to generate more of a kung-fu hybrid. 

"Mission: Impossible 2" is a high-octane action film directed by John Woo and released in the year 2000. Starring Tom Cruise as Ethan Hunt, the film is the second installment in the popular "Mission: Impossible" franchise.

The movie revolves around Ethan Hunt's mission to retrieve a deadly virus known as "Chimera" that has the potential to wipe out entire populations. In his pursuit, he crosses paths with Nyah Nordoff-Hall, portrayed by Thandie Newton, who has a personal connection to the antagonist, Sean Ambrose, played by Dougray Scott. The film takes the audience on a thrilling ride filled with explosive stunts, intense espionage, and unexpected twists.

One of the defining features of "Mission: Impossible 2" is its signature action sequences, known for their over-the-top style and slow-motion shots. Director John Woo's distinctive filmmaking style brings a unique flair to the franchise, characterized by intricate choreography and gravity-defying feats. Tom Cruise's dedication to performing his own stunts adds a genuine element of excitement and authenticity to the movie.

While the action is undoubtedly a highlight, some critics have noted that the plot of "Mission: Impossible 2" might be somewhat formulaic and less intricate compared to the other films in the series. The focus on the romantic subplot between Ethan and Nyah also drew mixed opinions, as it diverted attention from the core espionage elements that the franchise is known for.

Director John Woo's filmmaking style includes dramatic slow-motion shots, stylized action choreography, and emotional intensity. While this can be engaging for some, others might find it melodramatic or exaggerated. The film's dialogue and plot elements can come across as clichéd or overly dramatic. 

Certain lines and plot twists might contribute to the perceived cheesiness. Some characters, the supporting cast including former agent Sean Ambrose, portrayed in a more caricatured or stereotypical manner, which can contribute to the overall sense of cheesiness. The musical score also played a significant role in how a movie is perceived,  leaning towards melodrama,  out of sync with the tone, enhancing the cheesy feeling.

Visual Effects: While the film was released in 2000, some of the visual effects might not have aged well, leading to moments that appear cheesy by modern standards.

Overall, "Mission: Impossible 2" offers an adrenaline-packed cinematic experience that appeals to fans of high-stakes action and espionage. It might not be the most complex installment in the series, but its intense action sequences and Tom Cruise's charismatic performance make it an entertaining watch for those seeking a thrilling popcorn flick.