Overview

Hard Target 2 revives the spirit of the 1993 Jean-Claude Van Damme classic, this time with Scott Adkins stepping into the lead as Wes “The Jailor” Baylor — a disgraced MMA fighter seeking redemption. Invited to fight in a high-stakes match in Myanmar, Baylor soon discovers he’s been tricked into becoming prey in a deadly human hunt organized by a wealthy group of thrill-seekers. Stranded in the jungle and pursued by armed killers, Baylor must use his combat instincts and survival skills to turn the hunters into the hunted.

Highlights

Scott Adkins delivers a physically intense and charismatic performance, proving once again why he’s one of the top modern action stars.

The film maintains the “manhunt in the jungle” concept from the original, combining survival thriller tension with brutal martial arts action.

Robert Knepper shines as the villainous Aldrich, a smooth-talking mastermind with a taste for cruelty and class.

Rhona Mitra adds a layer of toughness and unpredictability as one of the hunters.

Director Roel Reiné (known for The Marine 2 and Death Race 2) keeps the pacing tight, using sweeping drone shots and gritty, grounded cinematography.

Most Memorable Moments

The opening MMA fight, setting up Baylor’s guilt and emotional struggle.

The first jungle chase, where the hunters unleash chaos with drones, traps, and explosives.

The knife fight on the bridge, a standout hand-to-hand sequence showcasing Adkins’ martial arts mastery.

The final showdown between Baylor and Aldrich — personal, vicious, and cathartic.

Verdict

Hard Target 2 doesn’t reinvent the formula, but it’s a solid, well-executed action sequel that knows exactly what it wants to be — lean, mean, and packed with adrenaline. Scott Adkins elevates the film with his athleticism and sincerity, while the jungle setting and survival premise keep the tension high. It’s a worthy successor to the Van Damme classic — brutal, fast-paced, and unapologetically old-school.

Rating: 7/10