Everyone’s favorite artificially intelligent doll is back! The highly anticipated sequel, M3GAN 2.0, is gearing up for its release on June 27, 2025, and the first wave of critic reviews has landed online. While 2022’s M3GAN made a significant impact in the horror genre, its follow-up is making waves for a different reason: a major shift in tone and genre towards campy sci-fi action.
The initial reactions suggest that M3GAN 2.0 largely sheds its horror roots, opting instead for a blend of action, comedy, and an unapologetic embrace of the ridiculous. This genre pivot has drawn mixed opinions, delighting some who enjoy the over-the-top approach while leaving others who expected a return to horror feeling less enthused.
A Genre Transformation: From Horror to High-Octane Camp
The most prominent takeaway from early reviews is the sequel’s bold departure from its predecessor’s genre. Critics note that M3GAN 2.0 is less a horror film and more a full-throttle sci-fi action-comedy that leans heavily into camp. Comparisons abound, with reviewers likening the film’s style and energy to ’80s and ’90s action thrillers and unique genre blends:
Many see shades of classics like Terminator 2: Judgment Day, Mission: Impossible, and even Aliens, albeit with a distinct camp sensibility.
Some critics highlight influences from directors like Sam Raimi in the action sequences and the physics-defying nature reminiscent of the Charlie’s Angels movies.
Other surprising comparisons include films like Gremlins, Kindergarten Cop, and Army of Darkness, pointing to a unique tone that feels nostalgic and playfully chaotic.
While some reviewers found this shift disappointing, feeling the film loses its connection to the horror roots established by Blumhouse and Atomic Monster, many others found it refreshing and entertaining. The consensus points to a movie that works best when it fully commits to its new, action-driven, and comedic identity.
M3GAN: Upgraded, Iconic, and Still the Star
Despite the genre shift, critics universally agree that the titular character remains the heart and soul of the sequel. M3GAN, voiced by Jenna Davies and physically performed by Amie Donald, is described as just as witty, snarky, charming, and “fabulous” as ever. Her dialogue and interactions with Gemma (played by the returning, praised Allison Williams) are highlighted as major strengths, expected to fuel the same kind of online buzz and memes that the first film generated.
Adding to M3GAN’s evolution in M3GAN 2.0 is a bold new look. Director Gerard Johnstone explained that since M3GAN is no longer just a prototype toy but operating in the real world in the sequel, a different attire was necessary. Costume designer Jeriana San Juan crafted an updated aesthetic described as having a “timeless and classicness,” despite M3GAN’s modern tech origins. This upgrade positions M3GAN as a “next-level action star,” integral to the film’s numerous fight scenes.
However, some critics note a subtle shift in M3GAN’s personality, suggesting she begins acquiring empathy and morality. While this adds complexity, some reviews felt it occasionally detracted from the pure fun of her earlier, less inhibited persona, with a few wishing she had more screen time.
Leaning into the Camp & Comedy
If M3GAN had unintentional camp elements, reviews suggest M3GAN 2.0 dives headfirst into intentional camp. The film fully embraces the absurdity of its premise, reportedly becoming significantly funnier than the original. Critics praise the film for amping up the humor and allowing its outlandish characters and circumstances to shine.
This increased campiness is seen by some as leaning into M3GAN’s status as a “queer icon,” adding another layer to the film’s playful tone. While the humor is often successful and amusing, a few reviews found the comedic approach occasionally forced or overly eager to capture “viral TikTok energy.”
Kinetic Action and Shallow AI Themes
The sequel reportedly features numerous sci-fi action sequences, including exciting robot-on-robot confrontations. Critics found these fights kinetic, cleverly staged, and enjoyable, contributing to the film’s bigger, more thrilling feel compared to the original. While perhaps not groundbreaking, the action is generally seen as a fun highlight, making up for some pacing issues.
Regarding the themes of artificial intelligence and societal dependence on technology, critical reception is less positive. Many reviews found the film’s engagement with AI concepts superficial or inconsistent. The commentary is described as a “jumble of cybersecurity concerns and softball advocacy,” too silly to have significant real-world bearing and often ending on a “wimpy ‘let’s all get along'” note. Some critics felt the film lacked a clear point in its exploration of AI, ironically predicting clips might appear in future documentaries as examples of past anxieties.
The new antagonist robot, AMELIA, also receives mixed reviews. While some found her a compelling, dangerous presence comparable to iconic sci-fi villains, others felt she was a less engaging, less witty “icy blonde killing machine” compared to M3GAN.
Standout Performances and Franchise Future
Beyond M3GAN herself, performances received positive mentions. Allison Williams is again credited as a “secret weapon,” grounding the film by taking Gemma’s character arc seriously while allowing the movie to maintain its tone. Jemaine Clement provides an amusing supporting turn as an Elon Musk-style tech billionaire.
With M3GAN 2.0 expanding the universe, a spin-off titled Soulm8te* is already confirmed for 2026. However, critical opinions on the main series’ future are divided following this sequel’s tonal shift. Some hope for future installments to be even crazier, while others worry this entry might “fatally brick the franchise” or suggest M3GAN needs “reprogramming” if it is to continue.
Ultimately, M3GAN 2.0 appears to be a divisive but undeniably bold sequel that trades horror for a campier, over-the-top sci-fi action-comedy spectacle. With an upgraded M3GAN leading the charge, the film aims to deliver a wildly entertaining ride that leans into its absurdity, landing in theaters on June 27, 2025.
