Rebel Moon — Part Two: The Scargiver review: A notable improvement

Rebel Moon — Part Two: The Scargiver revolves around a fierce battle, which sees the rebels fighting alongside the villagers of Veldt against the forces of the Motherworld. The film is now streaming on Netflix. 

Story

In Rebel Moon — Part Two: The Scargiver, a fully recovered Admiral Noble decides to set course for Veldt to obtain the grain and take Kora into custody.

The rebels’ relief over Noble’s assumed death does not last long upon returning to Veldt, as they soon learn that Noble’s forces are set to arrive within a mere five days.

Determined to stand their ground and fight, the rebels realize that they have an advantage—the grain on Veldt, something that their enemies desperately need.

Furthermore, this time, the villagers take up arms to fight alongside the rebels to defend their home, and the rebels gain an army of their own.

As the battle draws near, past secrets are shared and new bonds are formed, but will the rebels’ efforts be enough to defeat Admiral Noble?

Performances

While the cast of the film plays their parts well, especially Bae Doona, two actors—Sofia Boutella as Kora and Ed Skrein as Noble—particularly stand out. 

Fighting on opposite sides, Boutella and Skrein deliver convincing performances that highlight the similarities and differences between their characters. 

As a result, they both appear fierce but champion vastly different causes. Their performances draw the audience into the plot.

Positives

Rebel Moon — Part Two: The Scargiver is certainly better than its predecessor. This part provides the audience with glimpses into the rebels’ pasts, allowing for a better understanding of the characters.

However, the highlight of the film is undoubtedly the action scenes. The battle between the rebel army and Admiral Noble’s forces takes center stage.

The action sequences during the battle are well-directed, elaborate, and energetic. The battle is quite exciting.

Snyder’s touch is also clearly visible in some of the film’s best scenes, which feature striking visual effects accompanied by his signature slow-motion shots.

Despite the engaging action sequences, the film portrays the brutality and ugly nature of war, which sees peaceful farmers take up arms to defend their home against overwhelmingly powerful forces.

Negatives

While the character development in this film is an improvement over the first part, it still falls short. There is a lack of emotional connection between the characters and the audience. 

As a result, none of the deaths in the film move the audience. They should not have been as inconsequential as they ended up being.

Furthermore, despite its best efforts, the film fails to convincingly portray a bond between the villagers and the rebels. 

The scene where the villagers honor the rebels with Sam’s handmade gifts lacks the heartwarming impact it was intended to have.

Perhaps a more natural integration of the rebels’ backstories into the film would have been better than having them sit in a circle and share their stories, which did not give any of their stories adequate attention.

Additionally, there is minimal plot development in the film. It feels as though the film is merely laying the groundwork for the next installment.

Verdict

Rebel Moon — Part Two: The Scargiver is an improvement compared to the first part, but it is not without its flaws and is still satisfactory at best.

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Also Read: Rebel Moon — Part Two: The Scargiver summary and ending explained