Sin City 2: A Dame To Kill For

Director: Robert Rodriguez, Frank Miller Starring: Mickey Rourke, Jessica Alba, Josh Brolin, Eva Green

IN a sea of comic book movies, A Dame To Kill For stands out like a blot of red on black.

Robert Rodriguez and Frank Miller’s sequel to Sin City, based on Miller’s graphic novels, is just as striking – and violent – as the gritty original.

The film’s black and white style features splashes of colour like the blood running down anti-hero Dwight’s face (Josh Brolin) or the venomous green eyes of femme fatale Ava (Eva Green).

Again the homage to hard-boiled film noir is clear thanks to the voiceovers of the tragic souls who live in Basin City, the shady characters and the brilliant use of shadows.

Weaving together two of Miller’s classic comics with newly penned stories, Sin City 2 features tales that are set both before and after the 2005 original.

This seems mostly so Rodriguez and Miller could bring back fan favourite Marv (Mickey Rourke).

But with the actor on such fine form in the role that marked his comeback almost a decade ago who can blame them?

However, the strongest plot thread that runs between the two films is Nancy’s story.

She is out for revenge following the death of police officer John Hartigan (Bruce Willis) and it is fantastic to see the character’s transformation from victim to avenging angel.

A Dame To Kill For has been criticised though for its portrayal of women.

Nancy (Jessica Alba) is an exotic dancer in a sleazy bar and Ava (the ‘dame’ in the film’s title) can barely keep her clothes on.

But this is not entirely fair as while both characters may be sexualised, they are also symbols of strength – very much in control and a force to be reckoned with.

Powers Booth deserves a mention too as he is excellent as the ruthless and corrupt Senator Roarke.

But for all its strengths, Sin City 2 feels overshadowed by its brilliant predecessor.

The original Sin City was truly groundbreaking at the time and so its long-gestating sequel lacks that wow factor.

The story structure, too, is simply not as crafted or satisfying and cast members who have not returned like Clive Owen, Devon Aoki and the late Michael Clarke Duncan are missed.

A welcome second visit to Basin City’s dark underbelly but Sin City 2 lacks the punch of the original