'Den of Thieves 2' hits Netflix: Action sequel starring Gerard Butler surges in popularity despite mixed reviews

Gerard Butler returns as grizzled lawman Nick O’Brien in Den of Thieves 2: Pantera, now streaming on Netflix.

The action-packed sequel follows O’Brien as he heads to Europe to track down criminal mastermind Donnie Wilson, played by O’Shea Jackson Jr. The new chapter sees the pair caught in a high-stakes diamond heist set in the picturesque city of Nice, France.

While critics have offered mixed reviews, giving the film a 63% score on Rotten Tomatoes, audience feedback has been far more positive, with a 79% rating on the Popcornmeter. Charles Bramesco of The Guardian awarded it four stars, calling it “another brash yet hugely entertaining ‘Heat’-aping thriller.” Brian Tallerico of RogerEbert.com described it as “a heist procedural, granular with details, elevated by a pair of charismatic leading men in one of the most beautiful places in the world.”

The sequel, directed by Christian Gudegast, builds on the gritty intensity of the 2018 original while offering a lighter tone and expanded international setting. Butler’s character, now facing a personal crisis after a divorce and forced leave from the LAPD, infiltrates Donnie’s crew in a bid to redeem himself and take down the gang from the inside.

The chemistry between Butler and Jackson Jr. remains a highlight, with their onscreen tension and reluctant camaraderie driving much of the film’s appeal. The film also stars Evin Ahmad, Salvatore Esposito, and Fortunato Cerlino, adding depth to the ensemble cast.

Following the success of Den of Thieves 2, the franchise is already moving forward with a third instalment.

A post from the official X account in January confirmed Den of Thieves 3 is in development, with Jackson Jr. expressing his commitment to continuing the series.