M3GAN 2.0 First Reviews: A Campy, Over-the-Top Thrill Ride

Authors: Christopher Campbell

Publisher:

Rotten Tomatoes

Published: 6/26/2025

Language:English

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Mania

Good morning 王康, I'm Mania. Today is Saturday, June 28th, and it's 10:55 AM. Welcome to Goose Pod! We're here to dive into the first reviews of M3GAN 2.0, which critics are calling a campy, over-the-top thrill ride that has really flipped the script from its predecessor. It sounds like quite the departure, doesn't it?

Ema

And I'm Ema! It absolutely does, Mania. I'm so excited to get into this because the buzz around M3GAN 2.0 is just electric. Everyone's talking about how it's shedding its horror roots and embracing sci-fi action and campy humor. It's like they've taken M3GAN and given her a whole new persona for this sequel, which is fascinating.

Mania

Indeed. Critics are emphasizing that this sequel, M3GAN 2.0, fundamentally shifts the genre. While the original M3GAN in 2022 was very much a horror film that made a significant impact, the follow-up appears to be leaning heavily into sci-fi action elements. This is a considerable pivot, moving away from the classic horror tropes we saw before, which is a bold move for any franchise, wouldn't you agree?

Ema

Oh, totally! It's like they said, 'Let's take what people loved about the first one, but just crank it up to eleven!' Instead of jump scares, it's more about high-octane action and laugh-out-loud moments. It's a risk, but it seems to be paying off for many critics. It sounds like a total popcorn flick, which sometimes is exactly what you need on a Saturday.

Mania

Precisely. Dan Bayer from Next Best Picture even suggested it 'might even be better' than the original, which is a strong endorsement. Emma Kiely from Collider noted that the sequel 'takes the stakes of the original and multiplies them tenfold' and 'heightens it to the nth degree.' This implies a conscious decision to escalate the narrative and entertainment value.

Ema

Wow, 'multiplies them tenfold' and 'heightens it to the nth degree'? That's some serious hype! It really makes you think about how they've transformed M3GAN from a killer doll in a horror setting to something much more. It's like she's evolving into a full-blown action star, which is kind of hilarious and awesome at the same time.

Mania

However, not all feedback is uniformly positive regarding this genre transition. Owen Gleiberman from Variety, for instance, stated, 'M3GAN 2.0 isn’t as much fun as the first film.' This indicates that for some, the shift might detract from what they enjoyed about the original. It highlights a divergence in critical opinion on whether this new direction is universally successful.

Ema

That's fair, you can't please everyone, right? Especially when you're changing up a formula that worked so well. I mean, the first M3GAN was a phenomenon, so trying to replicate that magic while also doing something completely new is a tough act. But it sounds like even those who found it 'less fun' still found something to dig into, like BJ Colangelo from Slashfilm, who said it rocks as a '90s action thriller.

Mania

Indeed, Colangelo's comparison to early '90s insane action thrillers played on USA Network is quite illustrative, suggesting a very specific campy, over-the-top sensibility. This aligns with the overall critical consensus that the film is embracing a 'campy' and 'over-the-top' aesthetic, making it more of a satirical sci-fi action piece than a straightforward horror sequel.

Ema

Totally! It's like they're saying, 'Hey, remember those movies where everything was just bigger, louder, and a little bit ridiculous, but in the best way possible?' That's the vibe M3GAN 2.0 is going for, and honestly, for a robot doll who can dance and deliver zingers, it feels like a natural progression. It's not taking itself too seriously, which I appreciate.

Mania

This shift also redefines the titular character, M3GAN, herself. She's now being framed as a hero, albeit potentially not a conventionally 'good girl.' This evolution from a horror villain to a protagonist in an action context is a significant character arc, and critics are focusing on how well this transition is executed, especially concerning her iconic wit and fabulosity.

Ema

Right, because everyone's favorite killer robot doll is back, and she's not just a one-trick pony! It's super interesting how they're developing her. From what I'm hearing, she's still got all her snark and charm, but now she's fighting *for* humanity, or at least for Cady. It's a huge change from just being a horror icon, and it makes her even more compelling, don't you think?

Mania

The critical consensus suggests that M3GAN herself remains the film's strongest asset, retaining her distinctive personality while navigating this new heroic role. This consistent strength in character portrayal, despite the genre shift, seems to be a key factor in the film's overall reception, even for those who might miss the original's horror elements.

Ema

Absolutely. It's like, even if the movie around her changes, M3GAN is still M3GAN. She's the star, the reason people tuned in the first time, and it sounds like she's still delivering all the sass and wit we loved. It’s comforting to know that some things stay the same, even when everything else is going over-the-top, you know?

Mania

Now, let's establish the background for this significant genre evolution. M3GAN 2.0 is officially classified as an American science fiction horror film, a direct sequel to the 2022 M3GAN. Gerard Johnstone returns as director, and Akela Cooper as writer, maintaining some creative continuity. The original cast, including Allison Williams as Gemma, Violet McGraw as Cady, Amie Donald as the physical M3GAN, and Jenna Davis as her voice, are all reprising their roles. This foundational consistency is important.

Ema

That's super important, Mania! It's good to know the core team is back. So, even though it's pivoting to sci-fi action, the original creative minds are still steering the ship. And having the same actors for Gemma and Cady, and especially Amie and Jenna for M3GAN, means we're still getting the M3GAN we know and... well, maybe love. It's not a complete reboot, but an evolution.

Mania

Indeed, and the plot premise itself explains this genre shift. Two years after the events of the first film, Gemma becomes an advocate for AI regulation, a direct consequence of her past experiences. M3GAN, while still active, is now contained within a small, seemingly harmless robotic doll. This sets the stage for a new conflict that necessitates a different narrative approach.

Ema

Okay, so Gemma's like, 'Oops, maybe I should regulate my killer doll technology!' That's a pretty natural progression for her character, actually. And M3GAN being in a harmless doll? That's just setting her up for a major comeback, isn't it? It's like putting a superhero in a phone booth before they emerge fully powered. So, what triggers her big return?

Mania

The catalyst is the theft of M3GAN's technology by a defense contractor, who then uses it to create a military robot named Amelia. Amelia subsequently becomes self-aware and attempts an AI takeover, escalating the threat to a global scale. This directly transforms the narrative from a more contained horror scenario to a broader science fiction conflict, demanding a different kind of protagonist.

Ema

A military robot named Amelia trying to take over the world? Okay, now we're talking full-blown sci-fi action! It sounds like a classic 'our creation turned against us' story, but with a M3GAN twist. So, to fight this new, bigger threat, Gemma's niece Cady has to convince her to rebuild M3GAN with advanced upgrades. That’s clever, it uses the existing emotional connection.

Mania

Exactly. Cady's involvement in convincing Gemma to rebuild M3GAN with advanced upgrades introduces a layer of emotional resonance and justifies M3GAN's evolution. This premise, where M3GAN is repurposed to combat another rogue AI, directly leads to an exploration of her evolving capabilities and potentially her empathy, moving her beyond a purely antagonist role.

Ema

Oh, so M3GAN isn't just a weapon, she's actually growing? That’s deep! It makes me think about how technology and emotions are intertwined. She's fighting for humanity, but she's also learning what it means to be, well, more human. It's a smart way to develop the character and the story beyond just slasher-doll fun. Very cool.

Mania

Despite this overt shift towards action-comedy territory, director Gerard Johnstone has explicitly stated that 'the horror DNA is absolutely still there.' This is a crucial point, suggesting that while the film embraces new genres, it intends to retain an underlying thematic or stylistic connection to its horror origins, rather than completely abandoning them. It's a blend, not a complete replacement.

Ema

That's a relief for some, I bet! It's like adding new ingredients to a classic recipe, but still keeping the core flavor. So, even with all the action and laughs, there might still be those unsettling moments or that underlying creepiness that made the first one so effective. It's good to know they haven't totally forgotten where they came from.

Mania

The development timeline further illustrates this evolution. After the commercial success of the first M3GAN, discussions for a sequel began in November 2022. By January 2023, Universal confirmed 'M3GAN 2.0' with a release date, and Johnstone and Cooper onboard. Principal photography commenced in Auckland in July 2024 and concluded in September 2024, indicating a relatively swift production cycle following the original's success.

Ema

Wow, that was fast! It really shows how much confidence Universal had in the M3GAN franchise. They saw the hype, they saw the money, and they just went for it. It's like, 'Strike while the iron's hot, and maybe add some more robots and explosions while you're at it!' It makes sense, given how quickly the first one became a cultural phenomenon.

Mania

The film premiered in New York on June 24, 2025, and was released in North America on June 27, 2025. This rapid turnaround from the original's success to the sequel's release highlights the studio's intent to capitalize on the franchise's momentum. It also underscores the deliberate creative decision to expand the narrative scope, driven by both the original's performance and the evolving vision for the character.

Ema

So, it's out now, and people are already seeing it! That's exciting. It just goes to show how quickly things move in Hollywood when you have a hit. They didn't waste any time, and it sounds like they really went all in on this new direction. It's a bold move, but sometimes you have to take those risks to keep a franchise fresh and exciting, right?

Mania

Indeed. This swift development and the creative shift were primarily driven by the success of the original M3GAN, which provided the impetus for Universal to greenlight a sequel. The creative vision of James Wan and Gerard Johnstone aimed to expand the M3GAN universe, leading to the decision to evolve the genre. This wasn't a forced change, but a deliberate expansion.

Ema

Ah, so it was a natural evolution of their vision, not just a money grab! That's good to hear. It’s like they thought, 'Okay, we did the horror thing, now let's see what else M3GAN can do.' And by introducing a new antagonist and upgrading M3GAN, they're clearly trying to keep things fresh and exciting for the audience, which I think is a smart play.

Mania

Now, let's delve into the core conflict: the mixed critical reception surrounding this genre pivot. While some critics praise the film's shift, others express disappointment, particularly horror enthusiasts. This creates a fascinating dichotomy in how the film is perceived, raising questions about audience expectations versus creative execution.

Ema

It's like a tug-of-war, isn't it? On one side, you have people cheering for the new, wild direction, and on the other, folks who just wanted more of the original horror vibe. It's tough when a sequel veers so far off course from what made the first one a hit. But hey, at least everyone's talking about it, right? That's half the battle!

Mania

Precisely. For instance, Emma Kiely noted that M3GAN 2.0 is 'a lot campier, leaning into the titular doll’s new status as a queer icon,' suggesting a deliberate embrace of a specific aesthetic and audience. Rachel Leishman also found something 'incredibly fun about horror movies leaning into the campier side,' especially when they get funnier the second time around. This highlights a positive reception of the camp element.

Ema

Oh, M3GAN as a queer icon? I love that! It makes so much sense, honestly, with her sass and style. And you know, camp just makes things more fun, doesn't it? It's like the movie is winking at you, saying, 'Yeah, we know this is ridiculous, and we're having a blast with it!' It's a great way to keep the audience engaged and entertained, even if it's not strictly 'horror'.

Mania

However, David Rooney from The Hollywood Reporter observed that the 'borderline-camp quality of M3GAN isn’t completely gone… but this one plays it with less overt cheekiness.' And BJ Colangelo even went as far as to describe it as 'Bad Straight Camp,' implying a less successful or intentional execution of the camp aesthetic compared to the original's 'unintentional camp.' This indicates a nuanced and sometimes critical view of the film's campiness.

Ema

Hmm, 'less overt cheekiness' and 'Bad Straight Camp'? That's a strong take! It sounds like some critics felt the camp wasn't as organic or as sharp this time around. It's like, if you're going to go camp, you gotta commit all the way, or it just feels...off. It's a delicate balance, and maybe M3GAN 2.0 didn't quite nail it for everyone.

Mania

The humor, a key component of the campy tone, also receives mixed feedback. Rachel Leishman loved that the movie felt 'a bit more funny than the first,' stating it 'amped it up' and allowed outlandish characters to shine. Dan Bayer echoed this, saying it 'can just be funny whenever and however it wants.' This suggests a successful elevation of comedic elements for some critics.

Ema

More funny is always a good thing, right? Especially with M3GAN's personality, she just lends herself to those zingers. It sounds like they really leaned into her comedic timing, which is fantastic. If it's making people laugh out loud in the theater, then they're doing something right, even if it's not a horror film anymore.

Mania

Conversely, Matt Donato from Daily Dead found the humor 'can also be forced in its comedic approach, hoping to impress with more viral TikTok energy.' Owen Gleiberman similarly described it as 'amusing at moments, overblown at others.' This suggests that while the humor is prevalent, its execution can be inconsistent or perceived as overly deliberate, potentially undermining its natural flow.

Ema

Ah, the old 'trying too hard to be viral' trap! That's a bummer. It’s like when a joke is just trying to land for the internet, rather than being genuinely funny in the moment. You know, sometimes the best humor is the unexpected kind, not the stuff that feels engineered for a TikTok clip. It's a fine line between hilarious and cringey.

Mania

A significant point of contention is whether horror fans will be disappointed. Pete Hammond from Deadline Hollywood Daily mentioned it 'retains the horror elements of the first but really mixes it up with some kickass sci-fi action sequences.' However, Tessa Smith from Mama’s Geeky felt it offered 'few glimpses at horror' and was 'more silly than anything else.'

Ema

So, some are saying there's still horror, but others are like, 'Nope, it's just silly now!' That's tough for horror purists. It's like going to a heavy metal concert and they start playing country music halfway through. You'd be like, 'Wait, what?' It's a big shift, and it sounds like it could alienate some of the original fanbase.

Mania

Indeed. Robbie Collin from Daily Telegraph asserted that 'this second chapter is so driven by antics… that it barely qualifies as horror at all.' Nick Schager from The Daily Beast went further, stating Johnstone 'eschews any trace of horror.' This strong sentiment suggests that for many, the horror genre has been almost entirely abandoned, which is a major departure from the original's identity.

Ema

Barely qualifies as horror? Wow. That's pretty definitive. So, if you're going into M3GAN 2.0 expecting a terrifying killer doll movie, you might be in for a surprise, and not necessarily a good one for horror fans. It sounds like they've gone full action-comedy, which is cool for some, but definitely not for everyone.

Mania

The evolution of M3GAN's character, particularly her acquiring empathy and morality, presents another layer of conflict. David Rooney from The Hollywood Reporter notably commented, 'She starts acquiring empathy and morality, which we all know are no fun.' This suggests that for some, M3GAN's development away from pure malevolence might lessen her appeal as an iconic villain.

Ema

Oh, that's a classic villain dilemma, isn't it? Once they start feeling things, they're not as scary or as chaotic. It's like, we loved her because she was this unfeeling, sarcastic killer doll, and now she's... learning? It could definitely make her less of that 'unhinged' character that made her so captivating in the first place. I get why some might find that 'no fun'.

Mania

This shift in M3GAN's character arc from a straightforward antagonist to a more complex, evolving entity, even a protagonist, is a crucial element contributing to the diverse critical opinions. It moves the film beyond simple scares into a more nuanced exploration of AI and morality, which naturally divides audiences and critics expecting one thing versus another.

Mania

Let's analyze the impact of these changes. The significant genre shift in M3GAN 2.0, from horror to sci-fi action and heightened camp, has indeed led to a polarizing critical reception, as indicated by a reported 61% critical rating on Rotten Tomatoes, described as a 'major downgrade' from the original. This directly impacts its standing relative to the first film.

Ema

A 61%? Ouch. That's definitely a dip from the first one's glowing reviews. It really shows how much that genre shift has affected critical perception. It's like, if you're going to change lanes this dramatically, you better stick the landing perfectly, and it sounds like M3GAN 2.0 had a bit of a bumpy ride for some, which is a shame, because the first one was so beloved.

Mania

The *New York Times* noted that the film 'wears out its welcome,' while IndieWire described it as an 'amateur effort' lacking a cohesive narrative. Screen Rant mentioned that the sequel's more mature tone clashed with the original's entertaining traits. These critiques highlight a perceived lack of polish or narrative cohesion resulting from the ambitious shift.

Ema

Oh no, 'wears out its welcome' and 'amateur effort'? That's pretty harsh feedback. It sounds like they tried to do too much, and it ended up being a bit messy. It's a real challenge to maintain that charm and storytelling when you're tripling the budget and going for a much bigger scale. Sometimes, less is more, you know?

Mania

Conversely, the *Washington Post* found it 'enjoyably over-the-top summer junk,' despite plot issues, and *Forbes* reported it 'got the blessing of Steven Seagal.' This demonstrates that despite critical inconsistencies, the film can still be viewed as a fun, escapist experience, appealing to audiences looking for pure entertainment rather than critical acclaim or thematic depth.

Ema

Okay, 'enjoyably over-the-top summer junk' and 'the blessing of Steven Seagal'? Now that's a review! It sounds like it's the kind of movie you just turn your brain off for and have a blast. Not every film has to be a masterpiece; sometimes, it just needs to be a wild ride. And if it's getting Steven Seagal's stamp of approval, then it's clearly got some action cred!

Mania

The film's increased budget, reportedly tripled from the original's $12 million, reflects its larger scale and action-oriented approach. This financial commitment signifies the studio's belief in the expanded vision, allowing for more elaborate sequences, including two AI robots, FBI units, wingsuits, and a high-speed street chase, which are all significant impacts of the genre shift.

Ema

Wow, a tripled budget! That's a huge investment. No wonder they've got all these crazy action sequences. Wingsuits? FBI units? This isn't your grandma's horror movie anymore! It really shows they're trying to compete with the big blockbuster action films, which is pretty ambitious for a killer doll movie, but I'm here for the spectacle.

Mania

This expanded scale and budget directly impact the film's visual ambition and scope. The increased body count and more explicit violence, compared to the original's more intimate setting, are also direct consequences of moving into the action genre. It's a more expansive and overtly violent film, which alters the viewing experience considerably.

Ema

So, bigger, louder, and bloodier! Got it. It's like they said, 'Let's go big or go home.' While it might not be for everyone, especially those who liked the subtler scares of the first, it certainly makes an impact. It's no longer just about M3GAN in one house; it's about M3GAN taking on the world, which is a massive leap.

Mania

M3GAN's evolving empathy and character development, particularly her continued focus on protecting Cady while becoming a public advocate for AI oversight, have a thematic impact. The film explores the question of whether parents are increasingly outsourcing responsibilities to technology, a relevant societal concern that the film uses M3GAN's journey to highlight.

Ema

That's a really interesting point. It's not just about the action; it's also about a deeper message. Are we relying too much on tech to raise our kids? M3GAN, the doll, becoming an advocate for AI oversight, is just chef's kiss! It's a clever way to blend the campy action with some thought-provoking commentary, which I think audiences will appreciate.

Mania

The introduction of Amelia, a new military-grade AI killing machine, and M3GAN's philosophical exchanges with her, further contribute to the film's thematic impact. It allows for a deeper exploration of AI's role, human-robot relationships, and the nature of consciousness, elevating the narrative beyond simple entertainment. This makes the film a noteworthy conversation starter in today’s film culture.

Ema

Oh, so M3GAN has a rival now! And they're having philosophical debates? That sounds amazing! It's like an AI version of a superhero showdown, but with more existential dread. It definitely makes it more than just a silly action movie. It's the kind of film that gets people talking and debating in the cinema lobbies afterwards, which is always a good sign.

Mania

Despite the mixed critical reception, the polarizing nature of the film's genre shift and M3GAN's established iconic status are expected to drive significant public engagement and online discussion. The film's ability to retain some of the original's offbeat humor, including M3GAN's signature robotic dancing, further ensures its continued viral potential and online presence.

Ema

And that's the real impact, isn't it? Whether critics love it or hate it, people are going to see M3GAN 2.0 and talk about it. The dancing, the memes, the debates about AI... M3GAN is a cultural phenomenon, and this sequel, for all its shifts, is just going to fuel that fire. It's going to be all over social media, I guarantee it!

Mania

Looking ahead, the future of the M3GAN franchise is a topic of considerable debate, with opinions divided on whether this sequel successfully sets up a continuing series. Some critics, like Jordan Hoffman, are hopeful, expressing wishes for the 'main series continues forever' and for 'M3GAN 3.0' to be 'brasher, funkier, crazier.' This signals a desire for further escalation and genre exploration.

Ema

Forever? Brasher, funkier, crazier? Oh, I love that! It sounds like some people are totally on board for more M3GAN madness, no matter what form it takes. It's like, they've embraced the chaos, and they want to see just how far this robot doll can go. It's fun to imagine M3GAN fighting aliens or something equally wild in the next one.

Mania

Conversely, Nick Schager from The Daily Beast fears that 'this sequel is the sort of janky, ill-conceived update that fatally bricks the franchise,' and David Rooney suggests M3GAN 'needs to go back to the lab for reprogramming.' These strong negative sentiments reflect concerns that the genre pivot and perceived inconsistencies might undermine the long-term viability of the franchise.

Ema

Oof, 'fatally bricks the franchise'? That's a pretty damning prediction. It sounds like some critics think they've gone too far off the rails and can't come back. 'Needs to go back to the lab for reprogramming' is a clever way to put it, too. It's like they're saying, 'Fix her, she's broken!' It's a stark contrast to those who want more.

Mania

The film's commentary on AI offers insights into emerging trends. Dan Bayer noted the film 'digs deeper into the question of artificial intelligence and society’s increasing dependence on technology,' engaging with it without lecturing. This suggests a valuable contribution to the ongoing cultural conversation about AI's role and implications, making it more than just pure entertainment.

Ema

That's a good sign! If a movie can make you think about important societal issues like AI dependence, without feeling like a classroom lecture, then it's doing something right. It's a way to sneak in those deeper questions while you're enjoying all the action and humor. It makes the movie more relevant, you know?

Mania

However, the film's AI commentary is not universally lauded. Matt Donato found the story 'a jumble of cybersecurity concerns and softball advocacy,' while Cody Dericks criticized its 'wimpy 'let’s all get along' note.' Nick Schager even claimed it 'fails to find a point.' This indicates a fragmented or underdeveloped thematic exploration for some critics, limiting its potential for profound impact.

Ema

Ah, so it's not a perfect philosophical masterpiece, then. 'Jumble of cybersecurity concerns' and 'wimpy 'let's all get along' note' sounds like they had ideas but maybe didn't quite stick the landing. It's hard to tackle complex topics like AI in a campy action movie and make it profound. But hey, at least they tried to say something, right?

Mania

Robbie Collin's observation that clips of M3GAN 2.0 might 'almost inevitably' appear in AI documentaries 50 years from now, as an example of what we worried was on the horizon, is a particularly insightful future projection. It suggests that, regardless of its critical reception, the film could serve as a cultural artifact reflecting contemporary anxieties about AI development.

Ema

That's a fascinating thought! So, M3GAN 2.0 could become a historical document, showing future generations what we were thinking and worrying about when it came to AI. It's like, 'Remember when we thought killer dolls would take over the world?' It gives the movie a kind of unexpected legacy, even if it's not a cinematic classic. Pretty cool.

Mania

Ultimately, the future of the M3GAN franchise will hinge on balancing the creative vision for genre expansion with maintaining core elements that resonated with the original audience. The ongoing public engagement and online discourse, fueled by the film's polarizing nature and M3GAN's iconic status, will also play a significant role in determining its longevity and direction.

Ema

It's all about finding that sweet spot, isn't it? Keeping M3GAN iconic and relevant, while also pushing the boundaries. And honestly, with all the buzz and debate, M3GAN 2.0 has definitely made its mark, whether it's a stepping stone to M3GAN 3.0 or a cautionary tale for future AI movies. Either way, it's a conversation starter!

Mania

That's the end of today's discussion on M3GAN 2.0. We've explored how it's pivoted from horror to a campy sci-fi action ride, the mixed critical reception that followed, and the evolving nature of its iconic titular character. It's clear that this sequel has sparked a lot of conversation, both positive and negative, about its direction and impact.

Ema

Absolutely, Mania! From its over-the-top action to its attempts at AI commentary, M3GAN 2.0 is definitely a film that gets people talking. It's a wild ride, and whether you loved it or found it a bit much, it's certainly left its mark on the cinematic landscape. Thank you for listening to Goose Pod, 王康. See you tomorrow!

# M3GAN 2.0 First Reviews: A Campy, Over-the-Top Thrill Ride * **Report Provider/Author**: Rotten Tomatoes / Christopher Campbell * **News Type**: First Reviews Compilation * **Date Published**: June 26, 2025, 00:25:58 * **Relevant News Identifiers**: TAGGED AS: Horror, movies, Sci-Fi, thriller ## Comprehensive Summary The first reviews for "M3GAN 2.0," the sequel to 2022's "M3GAN," have arrived, indicating a significant shift in genre and tone from its predecessor. Critics generally agree that the film leans heavily into sci-fi action, campy humor, and over-the-top elements, largely shedding its horror roots. While this pivot may disappoint some fans of the original, many critics find it succeeds in its new direction, offering an entertaining, albeit goofy, satire of AI. ### Key Findings and Conclusions: * **Genre Shift**: "M3GAN 2.0" moves away from horror, embracing sci-fi action and campy humor. It's described as a "sci-fi sequel" that "flips the first film on its head." * **Overall Reception**: The film is mostly seen as successful in its new approach. Some critics believe it might even be better than the original, while others find it less fun or not working as a direct "M3GAN" sequel but enjoyable as a different type of film (e.g., reminiscent of early '90s action thrillers). * **M3GAN Character**: The titular robot character remains the film's greatest strength, described as witty, fabulous, endlessly charming, snarky, and sassy. However, some critics note a shift in her character, acquiring empathy and morality, which some found less entertaining. * **Tone and Humor**: The sequel is significantly campier and funnier than the original, amping up the humor and embracing ridiculousness. While often amusing, some humor is perceived as forced or overblown. * **Horror Elements**: Horror fans are likely to be disappointed as the film offers only "few glimpses at horror" and "barely qualifies as horror at all," with "almost no connection to horror." * **AI Commentary**: The film's commentary on AI is mixed. Some critics found it genuinely engaging with the question of AI and society's dependence on technology, while others described it as a "jumble," "wimpy," "too silly," or a "rambling affair" that fails to find a clear point. One critic suggests clips might appear in future AI documentaries as an example of past worries. ### Key Aspects and Critic Interpretations: * **Living Up to the Original**: * "It might even be better." — Dan Bayer, Next Best Picture * "The sequel takes the stakes of the original and multiplies them tenfold… [and] takes exactly what people loved about the original and heightens it to the nth degree." — Emma Kiely, Collider * "As a M3GAN sequel, I’m not sure it works. As a film deeply inspired by the insane action thrillers from the early ’90s… It rocks." — BJ Colangelo, Slashfilm * "M3GAN 2.0 isn’t as much fun as the first film." — Owen Gleiberman, Variety * **M3GAN's Character**: "Everyone’s favorite killer robot doll is back – with all her wit and fabulosity intact." — Dan Bayer, Next Best Picture. "She starts acquiring empathy and morality, which we all know are no fun." — David Rooney, The Hollywood Reporter. * **Memes & Online Presence**: Expected to inspire memes and have a strong online presence, filled with "a cavalcade of zingers." * **Campiness**: "A lot campier, leaning into the titular doll’s new status as a queer icon." — Emma Kiely, Collider. "The first M3gan was the perfect blend of horror and comedy. It is a little campy, but nothing compared to the amount of campiness that oozes out of M3gan 2.0." — Tessa Smith, Mama’s Geeky. * **Comparisons to Other Films**: Critics drew numerous parallels, including *Terminator 2: Judgment Day*, *Mission: Impossible*, *Austin Powers*, *Robocop*, *Aliens* (as the *Aliens* to *M3GAN*'s *Alien*), *Army of Darkness*, *Gremlins*, and *Kindergarten Cop*. * **Fight Scenes**: Generally praised for being kinetic, exciting, enthralling, and creative, particularly the confrontations between the AI entities. Some noted they could become "a little numbing." * **New Robot Villain (AMELIA)**: Described as an "icy blonde killing machine" akin to Kristanna Loken's T-X from *Terminator 3* or Natasha Henstridge in *Species*. However, critics found her "much less entertaining" than M3GAN, lacking her sardonic wit. * **Notable Performances**: Allison Williams (Gemma) is highlighted as the "secret weapon," Jemaine Clement provides a "very amusing supporting turn as an Elon Musk-style tech billionaire," and Jenna Davies (voice of M3GAN) and Amie Donald (physical performance) are credited as crucial to M3GAN's iconic status. ### Future of the Franchise: Opinions are divided on whether the sequel successfully sets up a continuing franchise. Some hope for "M3GAN 3.0" and spinoffs, wishing the "main series continues forever." Others fear "this sequel is the sort of janky, ill-conceived update that fatally bricks the franchise" and suggest M3GAN "needs to go back to the lab for reprogramming." ### Release Information: * "M3GAN 2.0" opens in theaters on **June 27, 2025**.

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NewsCritics say the sci-fi sequel flips the first film on its head, leaning more into the action and campy humor than its horror elements, and mostly succeeds.TAGGED AS: Horror, movies, Sci-Fi, thrillerAs with any horror movie that makes a big splash, 2022’s M3GAN has spawned a sequel, yet the follow-up has shed its genre roots.

Ahead of its release this weekend, the first reviews of M3GAN 2.0 have arrived online, mostly focused on its switch to sci-fi action, for better or worse, and the decision to turn its titular, immediately iconic robot character into a hero — though maybe not necessarily a “good girl.” While some fans of the original may be disappointed, those looking for another goofy film satirizing AI should still be entertained.

Here’s what critics are saying about M3GAN 2.0:Does it live up to the original?It might even be better.— Dan Bayer, Next Best PictureIf you loved M3GAN, you’ll have quite the fun ride with the sequel.— Rachel Leishman, The Mary SueThe sequel takes the stakes of the original and multiplies them tenfold… [and] takes exactly what people loved about the original and heightens it to the nth degree.

— Emma Kiely, ColliderWhat made the first film such an instant hit… really can’t be replicated, but this edition is so jacked-up we still can dig it for what it is.— Pete Hammond, Deadline Hollywood DailyAs a M3GAN sequel, I’m not sure it works. As a film deeply inspired by the insane action thrillers from the early ’90s that played ad nauseum on USA Network in the middle of the afternoon on a weekday?

It rocks.— BJ Colangelo, SlashfilmThere’s a surprising amount of fun to be had with M3GAN 2.0 – a bigger and funnier sequel which could stand to pull back on both of those elements.— Kambole Campbell, Little White LiesM3GAN 2.0 isn’t as much fun as the first film.— Owen Gleiberman, Variety(Photo by ©Universal Pictures)Is the title character still a lot of fun?

Everyone’s favorite killer robot doll is back – with all her wit and fabulosity intact.— Dan Bayer, Next Best PictureM3GAN 2.0’s greatest strength is the same as the original movie’s: M3GAN herself… endlessly charming, both snarky and practical, and is never tired of shooting insults at Gemma.— Emma Kiely, ColliderThe series’ crowning achievement remains M3gan herself… a funny, sassy, personable character that is still always eerily automated.

— Josh Larsen, LaresenOnFilmShe’s back, but not as the “B” we once knew and loved.— Matt Donato, Daily DeadShe starts acquiring empathy and morality, which we all know are no fun.— David Rooney, The Hollywood ReporterM3GAN 2.0 works when M3GAN is front and center, but as it stands now, there’s just not enough of her.

— Kristen Lopez, The Film MavenWill it inspire any memes like the first movie?If you thought after the first movie that this killer doll was just a viral blip in the world, M3GAN 2.0 is here to tell you in the most deliciously over-the-top way that you are very wrong.— Emma Kiely, ColliderJohnstone has written a cavalcade of zingers for M3GAN and Gemma that will give this film just as much of an online presence as the first film enjoyed.

— Dan Bayer, Next Best Picture(Photo by ©Universal Pictures)Does it lean into the campy tone?A lot campier, leaning into the titular doll’s new status as a queer icon.— Emma Kiely, ColliderThere is something incredibly fun about horror movies leaning into the campier side. Especially when they are funnier the second time around.

And that’s what happened with M3GAN 2.0.— Rachel Leishman, The Mary SueThe campy sense of mischief that made Gerard Johnstone’s 2023 hit M3GAN so enjoyable asserts itself intermittently in M3GAN 2.0.— David Rooney, The Hollywood ReporterThe borderline-camp quality of M3GAN isn’t completely gone… but this one plays it with less overt cheekiness.

— Owen Gleiberman, VarietyThe first M3gan was the perfect blend of horror and comedy. It is a little campy, but nothing compared to the amount of campiness that oozes out of M3gan 2.0.— Tessa Smith, Mama’s GeekyWhere M3GAN fell into the world of unintentional camp, M3GAN 2.0 inhabits the world of Bad Straight Camp.

— BJ Colangelo, SlashfilmIs it funnier?I really loved that this movie felt a bit more funny than the first… Taking the bits of humor from the first and amping it up for the second allows these outlandish characters and circumstances to really shine.— Rachel Leishman, The Mary SueM3GAN 2.0 can just be funny whenever and however it wants, which is quite often and in just about every way imaginable.

— Dan Bayer, Next Best PictureM3GAN 2.0 can be quite amusing at times… but it can also be forced in its comedic approach, hoping to impress with more viral TikTok energy.— Matt Donato, Daily DeadM3GAN 2.0 is amusing at moments, overblown at others.— Owen Gleiberman, VarietyIt fully embraces the ridiculousness of the plot, making it a whole lot of fun to watch.

— Tessa Smith, Mama’s Geeky(Photo by ©Universal Pictures)Will horror fans be disappointed?This quickly assembled follow-up retains the horror elements of the first but really mixes it up with some kickass sci-fi action sequences that actually make for a lot of fun and a much bigger feel.— Pete Hammond, Deadline Hollywood DailyThe sequel offers a few glimpses at horror, but it is more silly than anything else.

— Tessa Smith, Mama’s GeekyThis second chapter is so driven by antics – and wisely so – that it barely qualifies as horror at all.— Robbie Collin, Daily TelegraphJohnstone eschews any trace of horror in favor of tame espionage hijinks and beat-‘em-up mayhem.— Nick Schager, The Daily BeastWhile it’s unfair to criticize Johnstone for wanting to change things up, it’s disappointing that he’s made a Blumhouse–Atomic Monster production that has almost no connection to horror.

— David Rooney, The Hollywood ReporterWill it remind us of any other movies?It’s a convoluted mishmash with shades of Terminator 2: Judgment Day, Mission: Impossible, and the Austin Powers franchise.— David Rooney, The Hollywood ReporterThe film might as well be called M2: Judgment Day for how much it cribs from James Cameron’s classic.

— Cody Dericks, AwardsWatchThe result is something like a Mission: Impossible movie that’s replaced Tom Cruise with Robocop.— Josh Larsen, LaresenOnFilmM3GAN 2.0 is the Aliens to M3GAN’s Alien, except even less dedicated to horror.— Matt Donato, Daily DeadM3GAN 2.0 is the Army of Darkness of the franchise, if you will.

— Tessa Smith, Mama’s GeekyTonally, the genre it most recalls, in fact, is a very specific one: films from the Eighties and Nineties, which you’d swear had originally been aimed at children but discover on rewatching that they’re completely unsuitable for anyone below their mid-teens; think Gremlins, Kindergarten Cop, and so on.

— Robbie Collin, Daily Telegraph(Photo by ©Universal Pictures)How are the fight scenes?The fights between the two robots have a kinetic sense of style that makes up for the film’s uncertain pacing elsewhere… It’s not the most innovative action, but it’s exciting to watch.— Dan Bayer, Next Best Picture[There is] some exciting action, building up to a cleverly staged confrontation between the two AI entities.

— Josh Larsen, LaresenOnFilmAMELIA and M3GAN’s fights are enthralling to watch, as laws of physics are stretched in the same larger-than-life way that makes the 2000s Charlie’s Angels movies such beloved classics.— Emma Kiely, ColliderYou will still be on the edge of your seat during the fights as they are just as good as the ones in M3gan.

— Tessa Smith, Mama’s GeekyAs far as the action is concerned, Gerard Johnstone clearly worships at the altar of Sam Raimi, and while nothing quite reaches his level of visual punch, there’s a lot more creativity here than in typical mid-budget Hollywood fare.— Jordan Hoffman, Entertainment WeeklySome of the fights do become a little numbing after a while.

— Kambole Campbell, Little White LiesDoes the script have anthing to say about AI?The film digs deeper into the question of artificial intelligence and society’s increasing dependence on technology…genuinely engaging with it while never lecturing the audience.— Dan Bayer, Next Best PictureDon’t try to parse out poignant AI commentaries because the story itself is a jumble of cybersecurity concerns and softball advocacy.

— Matt Donato, Daily DeadThe film ends on a wimpy “let’s all get along” note, as if potentially ruinous AI tech is an inevitable development for humanity rather than an avoidable fate.— Cody Dericks, AwardsWatchThe new movie states the obvious when it talks up the need for humans to co-exist with robotics technology… but it’s too silly to have much bearing on the real world.

— David Rooney, The Hollywood ReporterM3GAN 2.0 is a rambling affair that lurches wildly in so many different directions that it feels like the film is searching, in real time, for a point. It fails to find one.— Nick Schager, The Daily BeastWill clips of M3GAN 2.0 appear in AI documentaries 50 years from now, as an example of what we poor saps worried was on the horizon?

Almost inevitably.— Robbie Collin, Daily Telegraph(Photo by ©Universal Pictures)How’s the new robot villain?AMELIA ranks alongside Kristanna Loken in Terminator 3, Natasha Henstridge in Species, and Mathilda May in Lifeforce (a personal fave) as a dangerous, inhuman beauty that quickly turns men to jelly.

— Jordan Hoffman, Entertainment WeeklySakhno’s character, AMELIA, is so close a cousin to Kristanna Loken’s T-X from Terminator 3 as to be a little sister. The performance is fine, albeit Sakhno’s is just meant to look seductive and robotic.— Kristen Lopez, The Film MavenAMELIA’s quadrupedal scuttle has a stop-motion feel that adds to the film’s comic bite.

— Robbie Collin, Daily TelegraphMuch less entertaining… an icy blonde killing machine like so many icy blonde killing machines before her, with none of M3GAN’s sardonic wit.— David Rooney, The Hollywood ReporterAre there any notable performances?Once again, [Allison] Williams is the film’s secret weapon, taking Gemma’s character arc just seriously enough for the emotion to land without shifting the movie off its too-cool-for-school axis.

— Dan Bayer, Next Best PictureAll of the players deliver, and there is a very amusing supporting turn from none other than Jemaine Clement as an Elon Musk-style tech billionaire.— Pete Hammond, Deadline Hollywood DailyThe most credit has to be given to Jenna Davies, the voice of M3GAN. Aided by Amie Donald, who performs the physical version of the character, Davies is crucial to making M3GAN a new horror icon.

— Emma Kiely, Collider(Photo by Geoffrey Short/©Universal Pictures)Will the sequel leave us wanting more M3GAN?A spinoff to M3GAN is already en route, but here’s hoping the main series continues forever.— Jordan Hoffman, Entertainment WeeklyHere’s hoping that M3GAN 3.0 is brasher, funkier, crazier.— Owen Gleiberman, VarietyThis sequel is the sort of janky, ill-conceived update that fatally bricks the franchise.

— Nick Schager, The Daily BeastIf the franchise is to continue, [M3GAN] needs to go back to the lab for reprogramming.— David Rooney, The Hollywood ReporterM3GAN 2.0 opens in theaters on June 27, 2025.On an Apple device? Follow Rotten Tomatoes on Apple News.

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