M3GAN 2.0, M3gan (voice: Amie Donald), 2025. © Universal Pictures / Courtesy Everett Collection
UPDATE: The highly anticipated sequel, M3GAN 2.0, is now streaming on Peacock, but early reviews indicate a major letdown. Following the success of the original film, which grossed $182 million, the new installment has managed to earn only $39 million since its release.
Critics report that the shift from horror-comedy to action-comedy has not resonated well with audiences. Gerald Johnstone, returning as writer and director, opted for a sci-fi-spy caper format that has resulted in a convoluted plot. The excitement surrounding the franchise appears to be dwindling as fans realize the sequel features less of the dark humor and more tedious exposition.
Set against the backdrop of the Turkish-Iranian border, the film opens with an AI soldier named AMELIA (portrayed by Ivanna Sakhno) going rogue, creating chaos for the American military. Meanwhile, we catch up with Gemma (played by Allison Williams), who has shifted her focus from creating advanced AI to warning about its dangers. Her niece Cady (played by Violet McGraw) has also changed, immersing herself in martial arts after the events of the first film.
While M3GAN returns with her signature quips and dance moves, critics argue that the pacing of the film is sluggish, with many scenes dedicated to exposition rather than action. The attempts at humor and clever references fall flat, and the film has been described as a “dull, flabby mess” that fails to engage viewers.
Despite the star power of Allison Williams and a returning cast, the excitement that fueled the original film has not carried over. Many fans are expressing disappointment, urging others to SKIP IT and hope for a better execution in the upcoming spinoff, SOULM8TE, slated for next year.
As audiences consider whether to tune into the sequel, they can access M3GAN 2.0 on Peacock, available for subscribers at $10.99/month for the ad-supported version and $16.99/month for an ad-free experience. The platform also offers annual plans, giving subscribers 12 months for the price of 10.
The mixed reviews and underwhelming box office results highlight the challenges of maintaining a franchise’s momentum. Viewers are eager to see how the franchise will evolve moving forward, but for now, M3GAN 2.0 seems to be a missed opportunity.
