RIPD 2: Unveiling the Sequel to Ryan Reynolds's Notorious Flop

Ryan Reynolds faced challenges in his earlier comic book movie endeavors, particularly before his breakout role as Deadpool. He took on the character of Hannibal King in Blade: Trinity, marking the beginning of his journey towards eventually embodying the iconic red spandex-clad hero. Unfortunately, his portrayals of Wade Wilson in X-Men Origins: Wolverine and Hal Jordan in Green Lantern were widely criticized and met with disappointment. Prior to landing the role he was truly meant for, Reynolds had also appeared in the comic book adaptation RIPD. Although it didn't achieve success, a sequel titled RIPD 2: Rise of the Damned came into existence.

In the past, it was more common for sequels of theatrical films to be released directly to video rather than streaming platforms. Franchises would often produce a few installments for the big screen before resorting to releasing subsequent movies on home video. Nowadays, streaming services such as Netflix are cautious about the perception associated with films being bypassed for theatrical release and released exclusively on their platforms. This is because the phrase "dumped on streaming" could potentially harm the industry's long-term prospects. Fans understandably express disappointment when movies like Prey are denied theatrical release opportunities. However, there was no similar negative reaction to the existence of RIPD 2.

RIPD 2 is a sequel to RIPD

RIPD, released in 2013, is an action/comedy film directed by Robert Schwentke, known for his work in films like Time Traveler's Wife and Red. It is based on Peter M. Lenkov's comic book series from 1999. Initially, David Dobkin, the director of Wedding Crashers, was involved in the project after the studio acquired the rights in 2006. However, the film faced significant delays, leading to Dobkin's departure. Universal didn't officially give the green light for the film until 2010. Ryan Reynolds was cast as the lead, while Zack Galifianakis declined the other lead role, leaving Jeff Bridges to take his place. The film released in the summer of 2013, facing competition from Despicable Me 2, Pacific Rim, and The Heat. Unfortunately, it performed poorly at the box office, earning only half of its production budget. Critics also gave it negative reviews. Surprisingly, a sequel was approved, and RIPD 2 will be released on the small screen in 2022. The film features Ryan Reynolds as Nick Walker, a corrupt cop who dies while on duty. He awakens in a luminous office building and meets Proctor, a supervisor from the RIPD. The Rest in Peace Division is a spectral police force responsible for controlling the deceased. Similar to Men in Black, they deal with ghosts instead of aliens. Walker must cooperate with the division to solve his own murder. He is partnered with a seasoned cowboy and sent into the field. Despite its commercial failure and critical reception, the film was granted another opportunity for success.

What is RIPD 2 about?

RIPD 2 continues the story of Roy Pulsipher, the cowboy character portrayed by Jeff Bridges in the 2013 film. In this sequel, Jeffery Donovan takes on the role, lacking the same captivating energy that made him the only enjoyable aspect of RIPD. The setting shifts back to 1876, leaving behind the modern backdrop of the previous movie in exchange for thrilling Old West action. Serving as a prequel, RIPD 2 delves into Roy's demise at the hands of a gang of outlaws, which leads him into the division. Roy is partnered with Jeanne, portrayed by Penelope Mitchell, a skilled French swordswoman who has been slaying the deceased for decades. Together, they are tasked with safeguarding Earth from the wicked Otis Clairborn, played by Richard Brake. Clairborn plans to amass an army of damned souls from the depths of Hell. While RIPD 2 may not resemble its predecessor in appearance, its storyline bears striking resemblance.

What is RIPD's Rotten Tomatoes score?

RIPD received a dismal 12% positive rating from Rotten Tomatoes, facing severe criticism from both reviewers and audiences alike. However, its sequel, RIPD 2, managed to achieve a slightly higher score, earning a 20% positive rating from critics. Despite this, the average score for the sequel was lower, standing at 3.1 compared to its predecessor's 3.7. It is worth noting that only five critics gave their opinions on RIPD 2. Going beyond Rotten Tomatoes, some individuals found the incorporation of a Western setting in RIPD 2 to be more captivating. This creative choice helped distinguish the sequel from its more generic predecessor. By borrowing elements from another genre, it was able to give the impression of a genuine film. Nevertheless, neither of these movies garnered a substantial fanbase, making it highly unlikely that an RIPD 3 will ever be produced. While the possibility of a sequel seemed improbable, it is evident that it did come to fruition.

RIPD 2 remains curiously absent from public knowledge, with no discussions surrounding its production. A behind-the-scenes documentary for a straight-to-DVD sequel to a box-office failure seems unlikely. It is necessary for someone to provide an explanation for the creation of this movie, not because it is the worst film ever made, but because it may be deemed as unnecessary. The comic books, which are still readily available, generally surpass both films in quality. The original version of the story provides the most fulfilling experience. While RIPD 2 has no reason to exist, it somehow does. Against all odds, it has risen from the dead; a specialty of the Rest in Peace Division.