I didn't watch part 1 of the franchise. So not sure where they are coming from. But I liked the vibe this movie gave me. I was a sense of thrill what got me hooked and I didn't look at my watch once what often happens when I er bored watching a movie. Josh Brolin is rapidly becoming one my top 10 fav actors. I like him, good acting. believable guy. Benicio Del Toro also an great actor. Good facial features and good acting. The storyline wasn't that thrilling for me, but the vibe is what I liked about it. Great music and nice scenes in between. Loved the action scenes too. They could have done better with the storyline, making it a bigger movie. It's a nice enjoyable movie, nothing more.