The Butterfly Effect 2 isn't really a sequel: besides using the same basic concept—a young man discovers that he can change the past, albeit with disastrous consequences—it is entirely unconnected with the original movie. This time around, the unfortunate sap who alters history to his detriment is young businessman Nick Larson (Eric Lively): after inadvertently twisting time to prevent the death of his girlfriend Julie (Smallville hottie Erica Durance), Nick tries to use his new found ability to change his life for the better, but only ends up making matters much worse.
As the Final Destination series has proved, the same premise can be used time and time again and still result in a hugely entertaining film. Unfortunately, Butterfly Effect 2 doesn't manage to pull off the same trick, failing to emulate the dark tone of the original, Nick's unsuccessful attempts to climb the corporate ladder hardly making for gripping viewing. And with the central character becoming less and less likable with each new time-line, the film actually makes one long for the involvement of Ashton Kutcher (did I really just type that?).
As the Final Destination series has proved, the same premise can be used time and time again and still result in a hugely entertaining film. Unfortunately, Butterfly Effect 2 doesn't manage to pull off the same trick, failing to emulate the dark tone of the original, Nick's unsuccessful attempts to climb the corporate ladder hardly making for gripping viewing. And with the central character becoming less and less likable with each new time-line, the film actually makes one long for the involvement of Ashton Kutcher (did I really just type that?).