'The Accountant 2': Calculated Chaos

"The Accountant," a blandly named Ben Affleck crime thriller released nine years back, performed moderately well financially but didn’t create much of a stir. There wasn't an overwhelming demand for a follow-up, yet here comes "The Accountant 2." What’s unexpected is just how entertaining it turns out to be. If your original plan was to watch "The Amateur" or "A Working Man" at the cinema this weekend, consider changing your plans to avoid disappointment.

Similar to the initial movie, "A2" centers around Christian Wolff, a mob accountant with exceptional mathematical skills, often referred to as an 'autistic savant,' capable of processing vast amounts of illicit funds within his sharp mind. Despite sounding unappealing at first glance, the film proves quite engaging. A particularly captivating scene involves a detailed examination of a pizza delivery route for financial auditing purposes. Besides excelling in mathematics, Wolff demonstrates proficiency in various combat techniques and shooting abilities—his father having been an Army psychological operations officer likely influenced these talents. Essentially, he’s someone whom crossing would be unwise; however, invariably, there will always be individuals attempting just that.

First time out with Wolff we learned that he has a non-autistic brother named Braxton (Jon Bernthal) who is just as lethal as his estranged sibling and, unbeknownst to Christian, works as a freelance international assassin. We also met Ray King (J.K. Simmons), a top agent at the FBI's Financial Crimes Enforcement Network, and his hotshot protege Marybeth Medina (Cynthia Addai-Robinson). King and Medina were both on Wolff's tail; Braxton was sniffing around the edges of the plot on his way to a family reunion.

"A1" was a tough little crime flick, regardless of what you may have heard to the contrary. "A2" is quite different. Where the first film made room for feelings — about childhood trauma, crippling loneliness and suchlike — most of the feelings in the new one emanate from a conk on the head or a bullet in the brainpan. But returning director Gavin O'Connor and writer Bill Dubuque have also made room for a lot of laughs and even more action. (This movie has some of the best stunt work outside of a "John Wick" flick — too bad that new stunt Oscar category doesn't kick in until 2028.)

The narrative is quite intricate. It begins somewhat bewilderingly with an attack on a bingo parlor by villains; here, Ray King is taking refuge alongside the enigmatic assassin known as Anais (played by Daniella Pineda). Next, the setting shifts to New Hampshire at what’s referred to as a “neuroscience academy,” which served as Wolff’s upbringing ground and remains his recruitment spot for autistic teenagers who help him carry out operations. The journey then leads them to Texas, featuring some surprising maritime events along the way. Eventually, Wolff encounters Braxton, his estranged brother, whom they haven’t seen in ages. Upon their reunion, Braxton comments, "You look great." To this, Wolff responds tersely, showing little inclination towards casual conversation: "Thanks, I know.”

The dynamic between Affleck and Bernthal is incredibly potent – despite Affleck portraying a character as engaging as a fire hydrant – which essentially powers much of the film. The directors understand their target audience and deliver exactly what these viewers crave. As Braxton notes, "Isn’t there nothing more satisfying than hitting someone who thoroughly deserves it?"

I foresee an "A3" in our near future.

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