It has been over a decade since the first John Carter film hit theaters, and while the original struggled at the box office, its passionate fanbase has longed for a sequel that could deliver on its rich world-building and adventurous spirit. John Carter 2: The Return to Barsoom finally answers that call, offering a grand sci-fi epic that expands upon the mythology of Edgar Rice Burroughs’ universe. With improved storytelling, deeper character development, and jaw-dropping visuals, the sequel redeems its predecessor and proves that Barsoom still has plenty of stories left to tell.

Plot Summary: A Hero’s Unfinished Journey

The film picks up years after the events of John Carter (2012), with Carter (played once again by Taylor Kitsch) stranded on Earth, desperate to return to his true home—Barsoom. After years of searching for a way back, he finally deciphers the secret to the medallion’s power, and in a breathtaking sequence, he is transported back to Mars.

However, Barsoom is not as he left it. The once-thriving kingdom of Helium is now under siege by a new, mysterious force known as the Ashari—an enigmatic race of shadowy beings wielding advanced technology capable of disrupting Barsoom’s delicate balance of power. Dejah Thoris (Lynn Collins), now a seasoned warrior and leader, has been forced into hiding while her people wage a desperate rebellion against their oppressors.

Reunited with his love, Carter must gather old allies—Tars Tarkas (Willem Dafoe), Sola, and Kantos Kan—to uncover the truth behind the Ashari’s origins. As he battles his way through treacherous Martian landscapes, Carter learns that the Ashari may be tied to Barsoom’s ancient past—and that their leader holds a secret that could change the fate of the planet forever.

Strengths: A Worthy Sequel

1. A Stronger, More Focused Story

One of the major criticisms of John Carter (2012) was its convoluted plot and inconsistent pacing. John Carter 2 corrects these issues by delivering a streamlined, engaging narrative that balances action, intrigue, and emotional depth. The film maintains a brisk pace without sacrificing character moments, allowing audiences to invest in the stakes without feeling overwhelmed by excessive exposition.

2. Character Growth and Deeper Relationships

Taylor Kitsch delivers a more mature and emotionally nuanced performance, portraying a John Carter who has grown weary yet remains determined to fight for the world he loves. Dejah Thoris, now more than just a love interest, takes on a leadership role that adds depth to her character. Their relationship is given more weight, evolving beyond romance into a partnership based on mutual respect and sacrifice.

Tars Tarkas, always a fan favorite, is given more depth as well, dealing with personal loss and the responsibility of uniting the Tharks against the new threat. The film introduces a new ally, Sar-Kai, a rogue scientist who once served the Ashari but now seeks redemption, adding an interesting dynamic to the group.

3. Breathtaking Visuals and World-Building

Director Andrew Stanton returns to helm the sequel, this time with an even stronger command of the source material. The visual effects have been greatly improved, showcasing stunning Martian landscapes, elaborate cities, and thrilling aerial battles that rival some of the best sci-fi films of recent years. The Ashari, with their eerie, almost spectral technology, bring a fresh aesthetic to the world of Barsoom, making them a compelling and visually distinct antagonist.

The film also delves deeper into Barsoom’s ancient history, uncovering lost civilizations and forbidden knowledge, which adds layers of intrigue to the world-building. Fans of Burroughs’ novels will appreciate the attention to detail and the respectful expansion of the lore.

Weaknesses: Some Missteps Along the Way

1. New Villains Lack Emotional Depth

While the Ashari are visually striking and pose a significant threat, their motivations are somewhat underdeveloped. Unlike Matai Shang and the Therns from the first film, the Ashari’s backstory is hinted at rather than fully explored. A deeper dive into their history and leader’s personal motivations could have elevated them beyond being just another menacing force.

2. Some Supporting Characters Are Underused

With such a vast and rich world, some characters inevitably get sidelined. Kantos Kan, a standout from the first film, has a reduced role that feels like a missed opportunity. Similarly, while Sola has an important emotional arc, she doesn’t get as much screen time as fans might have hoped for.

3. The Ending Feels Rushed

While the majority of the film is well-paced, the final act rushes through some crucial developments. The climactic battle, while visually spectacular, resolves certain conflicts too quickly, leaving a few unanswered questions that may have been better addressed with a slightly longer runtime or a tease for a third installment.

Themes: A Story of Identity and Home

At its heart, John Carter 2 explores themes of identity, belonging, and the sacrifices we make for the ones we love. Carter’s journey is not just about saving Barsoom—it’s about finding where he truly belongs. His internal struggle mirrors that of Dejah Thoris, who faces the burden of leadership in a time of war. The film also raises questions about the cost of power and the responsibility that comes with wielding it, as seen through the Ashari’s morally ambiguous leader.

Final Verdict: A Triumphant Return

While John Carter 2: The Return to Barsoom isn’t without its flaws, it succeeds in revitalizing the franchise with a thrilling adventure, emotional depth, and stunning visuals. It corrects many of the mistakes of the first film while expanding on the mythology in a way that feels both respectful and exciting. Fans of the original will find much to love, and newcomers may finally understand why Barsoom has captured the imagination of so many.

If Disney were to actually greenlight a sequel, this is the kind of film that could turn John Carter into the franchise it was always meant to be. For now, we can only dream—but what a glorious dream it would be.

Final Rating: 8.5/10