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Gerard Butler has become known for action-packed roles with complex characters. His new film " Den of Thieves 2: Pantera," shows where he has previously proven to excel at the genre with some action-packed qualities.
"Den of Thieves 2: Pantera" debuted at number one which is also Butler's first opening in this place since "Angel Has Fallen." The strong opening in the box office came with positive audience scores while critics may have had varied opinions. This is a great feat for those that enjoy action movie performances with a leading male presence.
The film earned $15 million on it's first weekend which is also on par with the original. Social media outreach reached 108.4 million impressions across all media. Some have noted it has high qualities as a crime thriller with notes of both “Fast and Furious” and “The Town” which created intrigue with those fans from other known series.
Butler is a seasoned action star with many credits within the action genre. His on-screen presence is what continues to make him successful in such projects. His tough guy exterior along with a dry sense of humor are what help to showcase these qualities.
In this sequel he reprised his role as a rebellious Los Angeles cop “Big Nick” O’Brien . His unique portrayal has him as a character that can both bend the rules and show emotional moments that make him appealing to fans who seek more character dimension.
The plot features an international heist with Big Nick tracking down Donnie and his criminal associates throughout European cities. He has also now created a working partnership with the people who were previously after him. His main goal for his character is to show someone who desires to make a positive change even though it can’t always be done following laws and rules that are often placed.
"Den of Thieves 2: Pantera" continues the crime element that the previous film brought. Now it has added international locales and new characters from other groups such as the Serbian mafia. This storyline uses classic styles which allows those who have enjoyed crime thriller classics to still get what they want in a newer experience.
Butler’s relationship with O’Shea Jackson Jr has more of a focus which blends the aspects of adversary along with being good colleagues with one another. They have become great in an unlikely pair dynamic. This dynamic allows humor while maintaining the necessary suspense of a heist film.
With new European scenery Butler brings his Ugly American approach as he manages his personal brand of charm by mangling accents while being sarcastic. His character continues to show that the need to stay focused on the target makes his charm unique while showing a person who doesn’t conform to social or traditional expectations.
"Den of Thieves 2" has a fast paced quality. Many notes are of praise for director Christian Gudegast for using a more polished approach than his previous efforts by highlighting visual and action elements. Even though it is considered to be on the longer side at 2 hour 24 mins some find that time creates a solid platform for a solid story.
Though some viewers find that the plot can go astray at certain parts, the film does use intense car chases, unique robberies along with action that showcase the talents of actors and crew. Some might say that it gives “Ocean’s” level planning in a more brutal environment making for an enjoyable time for most that view.
Butler's work within "Den of Thieves 2" shows his capability of action. Along with these kinds of projects, others who have a passion in these types of films are attracted to him. He’s also taken roles in others from various different stories such as his turn in Greenland along with “Plane” making him someone to look out for regardless of what path the project goes in.
He is known as an actor in the action realm of film because of his high number of projects within this genre which allows his name to be synonymous with an action thriller style format that appeals to an adult audience. There seems to always be a fan base for projects such as this and Gerard is often found as a front leader for them.