Netflix has unveiled the much-anticipated sequel to its Dutch crime thriller franchise, titled Ferry 2. Released on December 20, 2024, the film picks up where the popular series Undercover left off, reintroducing viewers to the eponymous character, Ferry Bouman, once again embodied by the talented Frank Lammers.
Having experienced devastating losses—his drug empire, his beloved Danielle, and even his own sense of purpose—Ferry's quiet life on the Costa Blanca as the local Santa Claus is soon disrupted by the pressing call of family.
Enter Jezebel (played by Aiko Mila Beemsterboer), Ferry’s grandniece, who arrives with her boyfriend Jeremy (Tobias Kersloot) to bring Ferry back to the world he thought he had left behind. They are trapped under the reign of Lex van Dun (Jonas Smulders), a new, psychotic drug lord quickly establishing himself as the kingpin of the region.
This narrative angle sets the stage for the classic theme of family loyalty and the temptation to return to the underworld. The pressure intensifies when Jezebel reveals they need to pay off Lex to avoid his wrath, having already squandered their initial investments and operations.
The essence—humor mixed with despair—remains throughout Ferry 2, employing Lammers' signature gruff charm and creating classic scenarios within the grim underbelly of crime. The movie’s memorable quote, 'The longer you wait, the harder it gets. At some point, it's too late. Everything's lost,' encapsulates Ferry's internal struggle and despair over his brutal life choices.
Efforts to regain Ferry's criminal expertise manifest hilariously and grimly, making for compelling storytelling. Despite the predictable plotlines, where familiar tropes of crime sagas—like 'Uncle Ferry has an idea'—distract from originality, the voracious energy of Lammers keeps audiences engaged.
Many critics highlighted how the film treads familiar ground, leading to mixed reactions. The characterization of Lex van Dun has been portrayed as somewhat one-dimensional, which detracts from the otherwise intriguing storyline. Critics note, 'It’s always great to see the beloved criminal of the Netherlands, but one quickly gets the feeling of repetition.'
Yet, Lammers’ portrayal as the seasoned criminal burdened by his past remains the film's strongest element. His transition from handing out candy to children to contemplating violent actions creates poignant moments, enhancing the character depth.
While the movie maintains its rawness and dark humor, the action sequences felt mildly uninspired compared to previous offerings. There are lapses where one might wish for more innovation, with Ferry discovering hit jobs through mere eavesdropping, mirroring tactics similar to children spying on their parents.
Another layer to evaluate is the driving forces of crime intertwined with dynamics of mentorship. Ferry’s attempts to impart wisdom on the naive and enthusiastic generation adds humor and depth; capturing the essence of 'Ferry: The Next Generation'. Can he successfully mentor this group, or is it doomed to fail, perpetuating the patterns of their pasts?
Both hope and despair reside within Ferry as he seeks redemption not just for himself, but for those he has wronged, especially his estranged family. The film highlights these layers through dialogues such as, 'At one point, it’s too late. You’re everything’s lost,’ shedding light on the themes of regret, familial ties, and the incessant pull of one's past life.
Overall, Ferry 2 has drawn attention not just for its crime elements but for the human story it showcases—the relentless pursuance of redemption, bound by blood and mistakes. Critics may argue about its predictability, yet fans find it invaluable for showcasing Ferry’s tumultuous life.
For the fans of the series, Ferry 2 offers more than just nostalgia; it gives resolution to questions about Ferry’s fate following the dramatic events of the original series. Despite some criticisms, it remains engaging, reaffirming Frank Lammers’ status as the quintessential face of violence wrapped within the complicated layers of human emotion.
This film asks whether Ferry can truly escape his past or if he will forever remain shackled by it—a compelling reflection mirrored through the melancholic aesthetics of the rainy backdrop, roadside diners, and the raw, gritty atmosphere of the crime-riddled provinces of the Netherlands.