Plot: What’s it about?
The Judas bugs used to demolish a wave of diseased cockroaches had impressive skills, as they could mimic other creatures, a useful trait indeed. Remi (Alix Koromzay) was involved in that project, but now has a new life and wants to live in peace. But that isn’t in the cards of course, as those massive bugs have decided to return and Remi is due to be paid a visit. The Judas bugs are very dangerous and hard to combat, but now they could be even more powerful, thanks to yet another metamorphosis process. The bugs now not only have the size of a human, but they can mimic humans also, which is very bad news. This time, the battle will be more fierce & lethal, as the Judas bugs have good disguises, as well as staggering powers. Remi, some students, and a police officer soon have to take on the bugs themselves, but can they overcome these beasts, even with Remi’s knowledge about the species?
Dimension has become the leader in direct to video sequels, so of course, they’ve now released Mimic 2. I was entertained by the first Mimic and I suppose a sequel was plausible, but under direct to video status, I wasn’t too hopeful. But it had some potential and as such, I decided to sit down and give Mimic 2 a spin. The premise here is pretty much the same, but don’t look for many returning faces, as you won’t see them. I have to admit, Mimic 2 was better than I had expected, but it was good in a different way than the first film, I think. This one pulls out most of the plot and relies more on action, which will of course divide the audience. I don’t think anyone will get attached to the characters or be too interested in the storyline, as this one is just a basic thrill ride. Some suspense, some cool special effects, and plenty of action are the key elements in Mimic 2. I think fans of fast paced, action driven sci/fi should be pleased here, I know I was. In the end, I recommend Mimic 2 as a rental to those interested, but it wouldn’t make a bad purchase either.
This is not the kind of movie you watch for the performances, but as far as direct to video sequels go, Mimic 2 isn’t too bad. I wouldn’t say there’s a standout effort here, but since she is the sole returning cast member from the original, I suppose Alix Koromzay deserves more attention than the others. If you’ve just seen Mimic once, then you might not even remember Alix as Remi, but rest assured, she was there and now she’s back. It is important to have a link between sequels of course, but I had hoped for a stronger one than Koromzay. She is a decent performer and all, but she is unable to shoulder an entire film, though she has some help in Mimic 2, however. Of a list of average turns in Mimic 2, Koromzay is the best one, though that still isn’t saying much. Koromzay can also be seen in such films as The Haunting, Nightwatch, Lucinda’s Spell, and Mr. Murder. The cast also includes Brunos Campos (The Last Don, Hardshell), Jon Polito (Blankman, The Crow), and Edward Albert (Sexual Malice, Demon Keeper).
Video: How does it look?
Mimic 2 is presented in a 1.85:1 anamorphic widescreen transfer. This movie has some slick, dark visuals and that scheme is preserved here, to be sure. I was able to detect some small flaws, but on the whole, this is a superb effort. Mimic 2 is a very dark movie, but this transfer seems to handle the shadows well, with no detail loss to speak of. A couple of times the black levels were a little too dark, but never too much so, so no real complaints. The colors look terrific also, with vivid hues that never err, even for a second. A few minor problems aside, this is an excellent visual treatment and I don’t think anyone will be let down here.
Audio: How does it sound?
The original Mimic had a reference level audio track and as such, Mimic 2 works hard to keep up and in the end, it works out very well. The included Dolby Digital 5.1 option is powerful and very effective, with no weak spots to point out. The surrounds are used all the time and not just for impact presence, but also for atmosphere and subtle touches. This ensures the film’s eerie environment is intact and in this case, that is vital. No problems with dialogue are to be heard, which means whether small or large, all the audio elements are in perfect order here. This disc also includes English subtitles, in case you need those.
Supplements: What are the extras?
This disc includes five brief behind the scenes featurettes, a featurette on the sound design, and a selection of deleted sequences.
