Charlize Theron‘s latest action thriller, The Old Guard 2, debuted as the number one movie on Netflix globally following its release on July 2. Despite receiving a low 24% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and mixed critical responses, the film attracted a massive audience, showcasing the enduring appeal of Charlize Theron The Old Guard on the streaming platform.
The sequel continues the story of Andy, an immortal warrior portrayed by Theron, who leads her team against a new threat while coping with the unexpected reappearance of another immortal. The film brings back key cast members including KiKi Layne, Matthias Schoenaerts, Marwan Kenzari, Luca Marinelli, Veronica Ngô, and Chiwetel Ejiofor. New additions such as Henry Golding and Uma Thurman also join the ensemble under the direction of Victoria Mahoney. Greg Rucka, the comic book creator, co-wrote the screenplay.
Strong Viewer Engagement Despite Critical Challenges
The Old Guard 2 quickly secured the top spot on Netflix’s Global Top 10 movies list for the week of June 30 to July 6, with an impressive 37.5 million views amounting to 66.8 million total hours watched. It surpassed several other popular titles, including KPop Demon Hunters, Infinite, and the original The Old Guard.
The movie topped charts in 74 countries such as the United States, Canada, Mexico, Germany, Spain, France, the United Kingdom, Italy, South Africa, Hong Kong, Japan, and Australia. This widespread popularity reflects significant subscriber interest in Charlize Theron The Old Guard’s continuation, despite the film’s critical reception.
Mixed Critical Reception and Franchise Fatigue
Although The Old Guard 2 achieved major streaming success, many critics have expressed disappointment, suggesting the sequel does not live up to expectations. With Rotten Tomatoes scores ranging from 23% to 37%, reviews point to weak storytelling and a lack of compelling execution, leading some to believe this franchise extension feels strained and unnecessary.
Viewers’ enthusiasm for new releases on Netflix may have contributed to the high viewership numbers, even as many found the movie’s narrative and pacing lackluster. The emerging franchise appears to be struggling to maintain fresh momentum and originality, which could impact future projects.
Continuing the Saga with Iconic Roles and Talented Ensemble
Charlize Theron’s career is distinguished by diverse performances that combine emotional depth with action-star prowess. She first gained international prominence in the 1990s through films like The Devil’s Advocate and Mighty Joe Young, later winning an Academy Award for her portrayal of serial killer Aileen Wuornos in Monster (2003). Theron was the first South African to receive an acting Oscar and has earned multiple nominations, including one for playing a justice-seeking woman in North Country (2005) and for her role as Megyn Kelly in Bombshell (2019).
Over the years, her filmography has expanded to several major franchises, such as The Italian Job, Hancock, Mad Max: Fury Road, and the Fast & Furious series. In The Old Guard 2, Theron reprises her role as Andromache of Scythia (Andy), leading a diverse group of immortal warriors, portrayed by KiKi Layne, Matthias Schoenaerts, Marwan Kenzari, and others. This combination of action and complex character portrayals continues to define her career.
What Lies Ahead for The Old Guard Franchise
The Old Guard 2 ends on a dramatic cliffhanger, setting the stage for a potential third installment. This ending introduces an unexpected ally for Andy in the battle against Discord, intensifying speculation about the series’ future direction. Given the mix of strong viewership and critical ambivalence, how Netflix and the creative team will respond to feedback remains to be seen.
If the franchise is to sustain its momentum, future films will likely need to balance the thrilling aspects of immortal warriors battling existential threats with tighter storytelling and character development. For now, The Old Guard 2’s global success highlights the continued draw of Charlize Theron and her action-packed ventures, even as questions linger about the franchise’s long-term vitality.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What illness did Charlize Theron have as a child?
A. As a child, she often had jaundice, and the antibiotics caused her baby teeth to decay. Her top front teeth had to be removed by a dentist. Her adult teeth didn’t come in until she was about ten.
Q. Does Charlize Theron have OCD?
A. In a radio interview, Charlize Theron, who has won an Oscar, talked about her past challenges with OCD. She mentioned some of her obsessions, such as having to keep everything in a certain order. She also explained that she has trouble sleeping when she worries about items in her home being out of place.
