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The Raid was one of the slickest and thrilling action films in recent memory. Now with a bigger budget, director Gareth Evans is back and he manages to catch lightning in a bottle twice, crafting a film that can stand next to the original.

The Raid 2 takes place five minutes after the end of its predecessor. In order to protect his family after taking down the local crime lord, Rama (Iko Uwais) is forced to go undercover to bring down a large crime syndicate and uncover corruption within the police force. While the first film’s story really only served to provide a frame for the action, its sequel goes to a greater length to establish a more detailed plot.

However, this film is still focused on the intricate and fast paced fight scenes that made the original so important. The speed and technical precision exhibited by the actors is undoubtedly the most impressive aspect of the film. Long, sweeping shots show Rama dispatching foes with swift and ultra-violent strikes. The film builds and builds, leading to more elaborate set pieces that up the ante each time, ending in a thrilling climax in one of the most spectacularly choreographed duels in a film. In a world of CGI box office giants The Raid 2 is a welcome alternative that should be seen.