The One 2

Over two decades after Jet Li’s original sci-fi action hit The One (2001), The One 2 (2025) blasts back onto the screen with more universes, more versions of reality, and more jaw-dropping martial arts. Directed by Justin Lin and starring rising action icon Daniel Wu alongside a surprising cameo from Jet Li himself, the sequel reimagines and expands the multiverse chaos of the original while asking deeper questions about identity, power, and destiny.

Set years after the events of the first film, The One 2 follows Kai Zhang, a multiverse agent tasked with hunting down rogue variants who threaten the fragile balance between parallel realities. But when an unknown super-powered variant begins eliminating alternate versions of himself—just as Gabriel Yulaw once did—Kai finds himself drawn into a deadly chase across dimensions.

As Kai digs deeper, he uncovers a terrifying secret: someone is trying to become the "Omega One"—not just the strongest being in the multiverse, but the ruler of all realities. To stop this threat, Kai must confront his own variant, a darker, more ruthless version of himself, and accept help from an aged but still formidable Yulaw (Jet Li in a supporting role) who may not be entirely trustworthy.

Daniel Wu brings both physical prowess and emotional depth to Kai, delivering a performance that balances stoic intensity with moments of vulnerability. His dual roles—as both the hero and his darker variant—are executed with subtlety and charisma. Jet Li’s return, though brief, is impactful and nostalgic, adding gravitas to the film.

Supporting characters such as multiverse tech expert Ava (played by Pom Klementieff) and a rebellious alternate version of Kai add color and tension to the ensemble. The chemistry between characters is solid, especially as the film explores themes of self-confrontation and sacrifice.

The One 2 goes all out on action, blending traditional martial arts with sci-fi-enhanced choreography. Gravity-defying fights, slow-motion dimension warps, and reality-shifting combat scenes are masterfully directed. The film’s standout sequence—a four-way battle between variants of the same character in different gravitational zones—is both thrilling and inventive.

The visual effects are sleek and polished, using modern CGI to enhance rather than overwhelm the action. The multiverse concept is visually distinct in each universe, from dystopian mega-cities to zen-like realities suspended in time.

Director Justin Lin brings emotional depth to what could have been just another action sequel. The film explores philosophical questions: Who are we without our past? What version of ourselves deserves to survive? While it doesn’t get too cerebral, The One 2 balances its adrenaline with introspection—making it more than just a spectacle.

The story touches on free will versus fate, the morality of power, and the fear of one’s own potential. It’s a smarter film than expected, though it never forgets its audience came for thrilling fight scenes.

The One 2 is a rare sequel that not only honors its predecessor but expands the universe with bold new ideas and a fresh cast. It delivers thrilling action, layered performances, and enough multiverse twists to satisfy sci-fi fans. Whether you're here for the kung fu, the sci-fi, or the nostalgia, this film earns its place in the action canon.