This is a sequel that I was quite surprised by. The Accountant 2 keeps the level of suspense on par with The Accountant. The difference is that this version highlights bonding and there is a lot more breaking of the ice between the film’s two main characters. Ben Affleck is back as Christian and Jon Bernthal returns as Braxton—two brothers living the high-life based on their talents as criminal masterminds. The result is a solid sequel for The Accountant 2.

As someone on the spectrum, my appreciation for this film grew due to the focus on neurodiversity which was highlighted in Affleck s performance. The first one created a foundation, but this time the film has those on the spectrum taking part in technological operations. The subject of sensory struggles finds a light and is shown to help in some circumstances. Despite some of the risky issues involved, the film fuels anarchy for a cause. The challenges and benefits of neurodiversity take on a larger presence with greater meaning in The Accountant 2.

The film begins with Treasury Agent, Marybeth Medina (played by Cynthia Addai-Robinson). She finds herself trying to solve a mystery surrounding the killer of her former boss which Christian and Braxton are linked to. Christian continues his solitary routine and his patterns with diverse activities. He also continues to thrive on numbers and accurate systems. Christian still has a brilliant mind but gets ugly if he must. Braxton, on the other hand, is still lethally violent, but is also lonely and obsessed over getting a dog. 

The Accountant 2 is well written, especially when it comes to living a life of solitude with a low profile. I appreciate that many who are neurodiverse tend to establish a small presence. As the brothers team up to hunt down the killer, Christian’s fixations come into play. He is straight-forward with numbers, facts, laws, and knowing which moving parts are wrong. His methods are all by the book. With Braxton, however, mayhem tends to kick in too easily. The bond of brotherhood becomes stronger while chasing down bad guys in The Accountant 2.

The love/hate relationship combined with espionage is where The Accountant 2 succeeds as an acceptable sequel. Most of the time sequels are not mesmerizing. This one was because of the sibling connection. Affleck’s character uses his sensory overload to his benefit and success, and Bernthal’s character capitalizes on the chaos. Together they are dynamite duo.

During their mission, there are many questionable moments.They go from state to state and country to country which adds intriguing layers which compliment the movie’s theme. At the same time, some of the places in the film are fascinating while others are not. For example, the setting of Boise, Idaho is the right place for solitude after the events of the previous film. When the setting switches to Virginia and an institution of neurodiverse workers, that also fits this sequel well. However, the international setting of Berlin, Germany didn’t fit as well. Although, perhaps adding different countries provided another layer of exciting tactics to the film.

The Accountant 2 is vivid and joyful. The humor is spot-on as is the suspense which combine for an unforgettable continuation. A few moments were flawed, but the film stays on track to keep the fascination alive. Three-and-a-half out of four stars for The Accountant 2.