After a seven-year wait, fans can finally experience the thrilling sequel to the 2018 hit film, Den of Thieves, with the release of Den of Thieves 2: Pantera. This action-packed sequel, which is now available to stream on Amazon Prime Video, dives back into the world of high-stakes heists and complex characters, promising to keep audiences on the edge of their seats.
The original Den of Thieves was a moderate success, grossing approximately $80 million (£61 million) at the global box office. However, it found a dedicated fanbase through streaming and Blu-ray sales, establishing itself alongside classics like Michael Mann’s Heat and Ben Affleck’s The Town as a must-watch in the heist genre. Writer and director Christian Gudegast faced criticism for leaning too heavily on the Heat formula, but he managed to weave in a clever twist that gave the film a unique flavor.
In Den of Thieves 2: Pantera, Gudegast returns to helm the sequel, which feels like a fresh start for the franchise. The film's title, inspired by the infamous “Pink Panthers” organized crime network of jewel thieves, sets the stage for a gripping narrative. The story picks up with Donnie Wilson, played by O’Shea Jackson Jr., who seemingly escaped the clutches of lawman Nicholas 'Big Nick' O’Brien, portrayed by Gerard Butler, by fleeing Los Angeles for Europe.
Things take a turn when a meticulously executed robbery at Antwerp airport catches Big Nick’s attention. This sparks his interest in Donnie, who is now involved in a high-stakes heist targeting a diamond exchange in Nice. In a surprising twist, instead of arresting Donnie, Big Nick proposes an unexpected alliance, stating, “I’m broke and I’m sick of being a hunter. It’s exhausting.” This partnership sets the stage for a daring heist worth an estimated €850 million (£740 million).
Critics and audiences alike have responded positively to the sequel. Den of Thieves 2: Pantera has already garnered a higher rating than its predecessor on Rotten Tomatoes, achieving 62%. Fans have praised the film for its engaging plot and high-octane action sequences. One viewer noted, “This movie was awesome. The opening sequence is amazing, something straight out of a video game.” Another highlighted a particular action set piece, describing it as “an hour-long intricately staged, authentically researched and tense action sequence,” claiming it is worth the price of admission alone.
As the film unfolds, viewers see Big Nick’s character thrive in his new role as a partner in crime, bringing his signature swagger and charm to the heist. His interactions with the glamorous ringleader ‘Cleopatra,’ played by Evin Ahmad, add an intriguing dynamic to the narrative. Butler's performance is once again a standout, as he embodies the role of a lawman who revels in the chaos of his new life.
Fans of the original Den of Thieves will appreciate the sequel’s nods to real-life heists, particularly the 2003 Antwerp diamond heist, which serves as a backdrop for the film's plot. This connection to actual events not only enhances the film's authenticity but also adds a layer of excitement as audiences witness the unfolding drama.
Den of Thieves 2: Pantera is available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video as of April 25, 2025. For those who haven't subscribed yet, Amazon offers a 30-day free trial, making it easy for new viewers to dive into the action without any upfront cost. The regular subscription price is £8.99 per month, which includes access to a vast library of films and series.
The film's release comes after a limited theatrical run in the United States, where it managed to rake in $57 million against a budget of $40 million. Such success has already prompted discussions of a third installment, which is reportedly in development. This news has thrilled fans eager to see where the story will go next.
Butler is not just stopping at Den of Thieves 2; he is set to reprise his role as Stoick the Vast in the upcoming live-action remake of How to Train Your Dragon. This move demonstrates Butler's versatility as an actor, transitioning from gritty action roles to family-friendly films.
As audiences settle in to watch Den of Thieves 2: Pantera, they can expect a film that not only delivers on action but also explores the complex relationship between lawmen and criminals. With its engaging plot, stellar performances, and high-stakes drama, the sequel proves to be a worthy successor to its predecessor.
In summary, Den of Thieves 2: Pantera is a thrilling ride that captures the excitement of heist films while paying homage to real-life events. Whether you're a fan of the original or new to the franchise, this sequel is sure to entertain and keep you guessing until the very end.
