Give a writer who knew what they were doing an extra two months with the script before they started shooting, and then a chance to look at the rough cuts and ask for a couple of minor reshoots, and this could have been a great film (even if still not on par with the first). Unfortunately, that clearly didn't happen, and the film is stuffed with almost-good moments and missed opportunities. Still, there's a lot to like, even if it for me at least has nothing to love. It just can't help but be compared to the amazing original installment, and that's just not a comparison it has merits enough to handle. No matter how awesome Eva Green is. ( )