Crackerjack 2 (1997)

Directed by Robert Lee and starring Judge Reinhold, Crackerjack 2 is a return to the familiar, albeit often unpleasant, fold of the mid-’90s action-comedy. Quite why the series was continued is baffling and it really cannot be “due to popular demand.” Also known as Hostage Train there was also the possibility that the film was retitled to Crackerjack, however, Reinhold is playing Jack Wild, Griffith’s character from the first film… so that’s out the window.

Replacing the absent Thomas Ian Griffiths (as the original “Crackerjack” hero) is Judge Reinhold. The question remains: who exactly demanded this particular combination of criminal chic and cringe? Reinhold, the most recognisable name in the cast, certainly dominates the screen. Surprisingly, there is a raw energy to his performance, even if the surrounding material doesn’t always match his dedication. For a moment, one might almost forget the casting anomaly, had this character been the embattled Billy Rosewood from Beverly Hills Cop, the dynamic might have clicked with more resonance, leaning into the over-the-top absurdity that Reinhold performs with considerable gusto here.

Despite the star power and Reinhold’s undeniable effort, the primary challenge Crackerjack 2 faces is audience acceptance. Can audiences truly invest in an action hero who looks uncomfortable even when being chased by terrorists? Reinhold gives it his all, he takes the pratfalls, endures the gunfire, and delivers the lines with a strained, familiar sneer. But watching him navigate action sequences, particularly the film’s ludicrous highlight, a meticulously choreographed fight in his girlfriend’s apartment with Reinhold in T-shirt and underpants. It’s less about relishing the thrills and more about enduring the discomfort of seeing a star, known for a impeccable comedic timing, visibly out of his element. Reinhold is a fine actor, however it’s about as comfortable as Rick Moranis as Hannibal Lecter. 

However, Crackerjack 2 does possess moments of frantic, if not entirely successful, fun. Michael Sarrazin provides a likable straight man foil, Carol Alt brings a certain campy allure to her role. Katerina Brozová looks to be having a lot of fun as the the villian’s derranged sidekick, whilst Karel Roden cuts an appropriately menacing figure as his muscle.

The film understands the genre’s DNA: the ridiculous villains, the improbable escapes, the over-the-top violence, and the intentionally terrible one-liners delivered with deadpan seriousness. Efforts to amp up the smaller details, like the interesting background characters, Carol Alt in her underwear and a the mix of real pyrotechnics and suitably cheesy CGI explosions, show an appreciation for the style over the substance, even if the execution is often clunky.

While perhaps not a contender for the best action movie of 1997, Crackerjack 2 certainly doesn’t set out to be profound. Its chief sin is simply that it exists in the shadow of the daft original and, more pointedly, that it casts Judge Reinhold in the lead action role. He performs his duties admirably within the framework provided, but the framework itself struggles to hold him up as a credible action star. If you’re looking for a truly great action film, you won’t find it here. But if you’re in the mood for a wild ride defined by questionable logic and a star’s earnest, yet ultimately uncomfortable, attempt at heroics, Crackerjack 2 delivers what it promises, minus any polish.

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I love that Crackerjack 2 was released under the far more literal title Hostage Train. In the very same year Judge Reinhold starred in Runaway Car. For a moment, I genuinely hoped we were witnessing the birth of a beautifully blunt naming trend. Just imagine the possibilities: Bumpy Flight, Damaged Ship, maybe even Broken Elevator, all starring Reinhold, all telling you exactly what you’re in for. No metaphors, no mystery, just pure, unapologetic situation cinema.

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