Directed by: Duncan Jones
Starring: Travis Fimmel, Paula Patton, Robert Kazinsky, Kristofer Hivju, Anya Chalotra
Genre: Fantasy / Epic / War
Runtime: 142 minutes

Eight years after the divisive but visually groundbreaking Warcraft (2016), director Duncan Jones returns with Warcraft 2: Battle for Azeroth—a bigger, bloodier, and more emotionally charged sequel that dives headfirst into the Horde vs. Alliance conflict while setting the stage for Warcraft III’s legendary arc. With improved CGI, stronger character work, and some of the most breathtaking battle sequences ever put to film, this is the Warcraft movie fans have been waiting for—even if it stumbles under the weight of its own ambition.

Plot: War Comes Home

Picking up years after the Dark Portal’s destruction, Battle for Azeroth follows:

• Anduin Lothar (Travis Fimmel), now a grizzled High King struggling to unite the Alliance.

• Durotan’s orphaned son, Thrall (voiced by a motion-captured Kristofer Hivju), raised as a gladiator before escaping to reclaim his heritage.

• Garona (Paula Patton), torn between her loyalty to the Horde and her unborn child’s future.

• Orgrim Doomhammer (Robert Kazinsky), leading a desperate Horde invasion of Lordaeron.

When Azerite—a volatile new mineral—is discovered, both factions scramble to weaponize it, igniting a war that threatens to burn the world to ashes. Meanwhile, a shadowy cult whispers of an ancient evil stirring beneath the sea (hello, N’Zoth).

What Works: A Gorgeous, High-Stakes War Epic

1. The Battle Scenes Are Unmatched

Jones learned from Warcraft’s criticism (overly dark CGI fights) and delivers crystal-clear, brutal warfare:

• The Siege of Lordaeron – A Helm’s Deep-level spectacle with trebuchets, gryphon riders, and a showstopping duel between Lothar and Orgrim.

• The Battle of Dazar’alor – A naval assault with tidal waves, Zandalari dinosaurs, and Jaina Proudmoore (Anya Chalotra) freezing an entire fleet mid-sail.

• Azerite’s Devastation – Think Avatar’s unobtanium wars, but with more molten explosions.

2. Thrall’s Arc Steals the Movie

Hivju’s mocap performance as Thrall (young but already a force of nature) is the heart of the film. His escape from slavery, bonding with the Frostwolves, and first Shamanistic powers are handled with Lion King gravitas.

3. The Villains Shine

• Orgrim Doomhammer (Kazinsky, now fully unleashed) is tragic, ruthless, and magnetic.

• Lady Sylvanas (Eva Green in a cameo) lurks in the shadows, setting up Wrath of the Lich King.

• N’Zoth’s whispers (voiced by Charles Dance) add Lovecraftian dread.

4. World-Building Done Right

From Stormwind’s rebuilt majesty to the golden pyramids of Zandalar, Azeroth finally feels alive—not just a CGI backdrop.

Flaws: Pacing and Overstuffed Lore

1. Too Much, Too Fast

• New characters (Jaina, Arthas, Vol’jin) get minimal setup, relying on game knowledge.

• The Azerite subplot feels rushed—it’s unobtanium without enough emotional weight.

2. Some CGI Still Uncanny

While most effects are stellar, certain troll facial animations dip into Polar Express territory.

3. The Ending Is a Tease

The post-credits scene (Arthas picking up Frostmourne) is chilling, but the main story lacks closure.

The Verdict: A Triumph for Fans, a Bit Overwhelming for Newcomers

Warcraft 2: Battle for Azeroth is the best video game movie ever made—but that’s a low bar. As a fantasy epic, it’s flawed but thrilling, blending Lord of the Rings grandeur with Game of Thrones political intrigue.

Score: 8/10
✔ For Fans Of: The Two Towers, Avengers: Infinity War, World of Warcraft.
✖ Not For: Those who hated the first film—this doesn’t reinvent the wheel.

Theater or Wait? See it in IMAX for the battles alone.

Final Thought

“For the Horde? For the Alliance? This war is just the beginning.” 🔥🎥

Would you watch this sequel? What Warcraft story deserves a film next? ⚔️