M3GAN 2.0 Review: This Sequel Switches Gears and Still Hits Hard

s been two years since M3GAN’s synthetic rampage shook the world. Now in M3GAN 2.0, her original creator, Gemma, is forced to reactivate the infamous AI companion after a military defense contractor hijacks her core technology to build a deadly new weapon named Amelia. With the clock ticking and a global threat on the rise, M3GAN might be the only one with the power—and the programming—to stop what she unintentionally inspired. In this slick sequel, the stakes are higher, the laughs are louder, and the action is fully recharged.

M3GAN 2.0 Trailer

The Good

M3GAN 2.0 fully embraces its new identity as an action comedy, and it works. The fight choreography is slick and entertaining throughout. The action is fast, creative, and filled with moments that will have audiences grinning from ear to ear. What surprised me the most was how hard the comedy landed. One scene involving a now instantly iconic dance had the entire crowd laughing. Another moment featuring the line “I see you” was so unexpected and hilarious that it earned a full laugh-out-loud reaction. Those scenes absolutely stole the show.

(from left) M3gan and Amelia (Ivanna Sakhno) in M3GAN 2.0 directed by Gerard Johnstone.

Beyond the jokes and action, the film has something to say. I appreciated how it explored questions around AI, military applications, and the way technology is shaping our lives. None of this is overbearing. Instead, these ideas are sprinkled in just enough to make you think without pulling away from the entertainment.

(from left) Gemma (Allison Williams) and M3GAN in M3GAN 2.0, directed by Gerard Johnstone.

The performances get the job done, but Ivanna Sakhno is on another level. She completely disappears into her character and plays the role with chilling precision. Her robotic stillness and lack of blinking were just unnerving enough to keep the tension alive. Alison Williams also returns and still gives off untrustworthy vibes in the best way possible. After Get Out, there is just something about her that makes you want to keep one eye open.

The Bad

The story is pretty basic and straightforward. That alone is not a dealbreaker, but there are a few stretches that feel a bit padded. The movie could have benefited from trimming a few scenes to keep things tighter and more focused.

(from left) Cady (Violet McGraw) and Gemma (Allison Williams) in M3GAN 2.0, directed by Gerard Johnstone.

My biggest issue is with the final villain. When the story finally reveals its big threat, it looks cool on the surface but feels a little hollow. There just was not enough motivation or depth to make it land the way it should have. It was fine, but it missed the chance to deliver something more memorable.

The Verdict

M3GAN 2.0 is a fun and entertaining sequel that confidently changes the franchise’s tone and mostly sticks the landing. This is not horror anymore. It has action, comedy, and overall, it’s pretty fun. If you go in expecting that, you are going to have a good time. This film may be great to stream, but I think it’s better to be seen with a crowd. I don’t know if this franchise needs another sequel, but I wouldn’t be opposed to it if they can keep the same level of humor.