Netflix’s latest action blockbuster, The Old Guard 2, has shot to the top of the UK streaming charts, despite receiving a critical drubbing—and a whole lot of divided opinions online.
While reviewers have slammed the sequel as ‘tedious,’ fans are flooding social media to demand a third film.
Currently sitting at number one on Netflix UK, The Old Guard 2 has clearly found its audience.
In a surprising twist, its 2020 predecessor, The Old Guard, has also surged back into popularity, claiming the number five spot on the platform—a clear sign that viewers are revisiting the original to keep up with the story.
But not everyone is thrilled.
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On Reddit, viewers are hotly debating whether the sequel lives up to the first film.
One disgruntled user, @acow552, didn’t hold back: ‘Sadly, I’m sure there will be a third. By not writing an ending to the second, they are basically holding Netflix hostage to make a third, because everyone will riot if there isn’t. Personally, I hope there isn’t. They shouldn’t be rewarded for that piece of garbage they call a movie.’
Despite the backlash, the sequel’s cliffhanger ending has left many fans eager, even desperate, for more.
‘I will be so upset if they do not make another one,’ wrote @r/netflix. Especially after the ending of the second movie left us hanging like that. They better be giving us a third one or I will quit Netflix for good.’
Others were equally frustrated by the sequel’s lack of resolution, but grudgingly admitted they’d still tune in if a third instalment gets the green light.
‘Yes, the sequel was absolutely terrible,’ said @missbrenee. ‘They could’ve at least wrapped it up completely or just left the first movie alone. And if there is a part three, we know we’ll have to wait a year and a half for it with the way Netflix operates.’
Still, not all the commentary has been negative.
While critics have largely dismissed the film as underwhelming, audiences around the globe are proving otherwise with their viewing habits.
Both The Old Guard and its sequel are currently in Australia’s top 10, with the second film sitting firmly at number one, according to @collectionnumber7412 on Reddit.
‘I don’t understand where people are getting the ‘bad rating’ from,’ they added, pointing to the movie’s strong performance in international markets.
There’s also the undeniable curiosity factor. Whether out of genuine enjoyment or a need for closure, many fans admit that even if they hated the second film, they’re still on the hook for the third.
‘Everyone saying they didn’t like the second one knows deep down they will watch the third one regardless,’ joked @delicious-smell435, summing up the collective mood of Netflix’s action-loving fanbase.
The Old Guard 2 continues the story of a covert group of immortal mercenaries, led by Charlize Theron’s stoic warrior, Andy.
Based on the comic book series by Greg Rucka and Leandro Fernández, the original film was praised for its gritty action and fresh take on the superhero genre.
The sequel, however, has struggled to strike the same chord with critics – many of whom have taken issue with its pacing and lack of character development.
Yet with millions streaming it worldwide, and a fanbase loudly calling for resolution after that cliffhanger ending, it’s clear that Netflix may already have its answer.
Whether you loved it, hated it, or just want to see what happens next, one thing’s for sure: The Old Guard saga isn’t over yet.
Netflix has yet to officially confirm a third film, but judging by the heated demand – and the fear of subscription cancellations – the streamer might not want to test viewers’ patience much longer.
Until then, fans will just have to keep refreshing their Netflix homepage and arguing on Reddit.
The Old Guard 2 is now streaming on Netflix.
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