Red 2

 
This sequel to 2010’s surprise hit “Red,” which chronicled the antics of a group of former black-ops agents who were marked for assassination by a new breed of much-younger agents, doesn’t nearly match up to the original. Returning are Bruce Willis, John Malkovich, Mary-Louise Parker and Helen Mirren, who are called into action to track down an incarcerated nuclear scientist (Anthony Hopkins) who holds the key to a missing, next-generation portable nuclear device that can change the balance of world power. The first film is goofy and implausible — with over-the-hill agents outsmarting and outgunning their younger counterparts — and therein lies its novelty. This one is just a weak retread in familiar territory. The actors all seemed to be having fun making this movie, though — certainly more than I had in watching it. Extras: Deleted scenes, gag reel. Blu-ray adds “The Red 2 Experience” behind-the-scenes featurette about the characters, the weapons, the spy gadgets and stunts. Vitals: Director: Dean Parisot. Stars: Bruce Willis, John Malkovich, Mary-Louise Parker, Helen Mirren, Anthony Hopkins, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Byung Hun Lee, David Thewlis, Brian Cox, Neal McDonough. 2013, CC, MPAA rating: PG-13, 116 min., Comedy Action Thriller, Box office gross: $52.210 million, Summit Ent./Lionsgate.