Plot: What’s it about?
A simple man with a simple man, that was once the only life known to Jobe Smith (Matt Frewer). He lived in fear when at home and when he worked, he was mocked and made fun of, so he didn’t have many places to turn. But when he started playing virtual reality games, his life started to change in massive ways. These were no normal games however, instead powerful cutting edge programs that were tested on Jobe’s simple mind. The programs were a smash success, turning Jobe from a simple man into a genius. His intellect became massive and boundless, which lead to some less desirable changes in his life. Jobe was obsessed with getting more power, so he sought to take control of all within his grasp, but he was stopped short of his goal. Some time later however, a ruthless industrialist rescues him from cyberspace, with the promise of a potential return to his old powerful self. But time hasn’t been kind to Jobe, as his legs are of no use and without them, he is unable to be as mobile as he wishes. His new boss insists he will be given top of the line prosthetic ones however, once his assignment is completed. Jobe is ordered to rebuild and break down a device known as Chiron. The task will not be a simple one, but if he succeeds, he will be given another chance to control the world…
The original Lawnmower Man was a fun movie, even if it had some serious flaws and could have been better. This sequel however, never even shows a single sign of potential and hits all new lows as far as bad sequels. But this movie wasn’t made to showcase a platinum script or great performances, instead the sole force behind Lawnmower Man 2 is special effects, which were touted to be excellent. As usual, the hype was just hype and the visuals here look quite laughable, even terrible at times. I know a lot of kinks hadn’t been worked out in the realm of computer generated special effects back in 1996, but tons of movies had good, even great special effects at the time, so there is no real excuse. So even if you can get past the bad acting and poor writing, you can’t even enjoy this one on a brainless level, as the sci/fi elements are botched and the special effects are miserable. If this were a student film, I would be more tolerant of the mistakes, but this was a major studio release in all respects. I have no clue who over at New Line decided to let this one get the green light, but I hope they’re off the sauce by now. I can usually find some kind of good in movies, but I am left silent in the case of Lawnmower Man 2. So unless you’re already a fan, this one is best left to gather dust on the rental shelves.
Video: How does it look?
Lawnmower Man 2 is presented in 2.35:1 anamorphic widescreen, with a full frame version also included on this release. This is a bad movie, but it stills deserves to look good and New Line has given us a terrific presentation. The movie has a bright, vivid color scheme with hyped up hues, which is well replicated here. I did notice some slight fades, but nothing that obvious and on the whole, the colors look quite bold. A lot of blues and metallic shades can be seen, which makes for a cool visual presence at times. No worries in terms of contrast, thanks to smooth and well balanced black levels at all times. The print is in great condition also, so kudos to New Line for not just rushing out a mediocre treatment.
Audio: How does it sound?
The film also sounds good, thanks to an active and well executed Dolby Digital 5.1 option. I didn’t expect a whole lot here, but this mix is quite good. There is a lot of surround presence, often with some solid power behind it. I wouldn’t stack this up against an all out action picture, but for what it is, this soundtrack sounds terrific. There is subtle presence in a number of scenes, as well as the more potent elements. All the elements seem in proper order, with a nice overall presentation that more than satisfies the needs of the material. Now don’t expect a dynamic, over the top audio showcase, but this movie does sound good. This disc also includes a 2.0 surround option, as well as English subtitles.
Supplements: What are the extras?
This disc includes the film’s theatrical trailer.
