2 Lava 2 Lantula (2016) is a science fiction horror film and the sequel to Lavalantula (2015). The movie continues the over-the-top, campy saga of giant, fire-breathing tarantulas terrorizing unsuspecting victims. This time, the fiery arachnids strike a tropical island, turning paradise into a nightmare.
The story centers around Colton West, a washed-up action star played by Steve Guttenberg, who is once again forced into the role of an unlikely hero. Colton, having previously battled the monstrous lavalantulas in Los Angeles, is now semi-retired and trying to rebuild his career. However, his quiet life is disrupted when reports of a new lavalantula outbreak surface. The creatures, larger and deadlier than before, emerge from volcanic vents, unleashing chaos and scorching everything in their path.
As Colton races to contain the threat, he is joined by a group of quirky and mismatched survivors. Among them are his resourceful and fearless wife, Olivia West (played by Nia Peeples), and his brave but inexperienced son, Wyatt (played by Michael Winslow). Together, they attempt to fight back against the fiery swarm while navigating the island’s crumbling infrastructure and scorching landscape.
The film leans heavily into its B-movie aesthetic, offering a blend of action, humor, and cheesy yet entertaining special effects. The lavalantulas, with their grotesque, molten bodies and flaming fangs, deliver both thrills and laughs. The movie embraces its absurdity with over-the-top action sequences, including Colton performing gravity-defying stunts and delivering hilariously corny one-liners.
What sets 2 Lava 2 Lantula apart is its self-aware humor and deliberate nods to classic creature features. It doesn’t take itself seriously, reveling in its outrageous premise. The film pokes fun at Hollywood clichés, with Colton’s character parodying the stereotypical action hero. Meanwhile, the interactions between the survivors add a layer of comedic charm, keeping the tone light despite the apocalyptic scenario.
As the lavalantulas continue their fiery rampage, the survivors come up with increasingly outlandish plans to stop them. The final showdown involves explosive traps, makeshift weapons, and a daring escape from the island. Despite the B-movie trappings, the film delivers a satisfying conclusion with plenty of action-packed, spider-slaying spectacle.
While 2 Lava 2 Lantula may not be a cinematic masterpiece, it embraces its so-bad-it’s-good charm. Fans of creature features and tongue-in-cheek disaster films will appreciate its blend of over-the-top action, comedic performances, and ludicrous plot twists. With its deliberately campy style and nostalgic nods to 80s and 90s monster movies, it offers a fun, low-stakes viewing experience for fans of sci-fi horror and absurdly entertaining B-movies.