(Photo Credits: Screengrab from Netflix’s Official YouTube Account)
The long wait is over!
Charlize Theron is back in The Old Guard 2, Netflix’s highly anticipated sequel to the 2020 breakout superhero hit The Old Guard. Directed by Victoria Mahoney—the first Black woman to direct a Star Wars film unit and now the first to helm a major queer-centered superhero sequel—the film continues the gritty, emotionally charged saga of immortal warriors navigating centuries of conflict, betrayal, and, most importantly, love.
Based on the graphic novel series by Greg Rucka and illustrator Leandro Fernández, The Old Guard introduced audiences to a covert team of immortals who’ve protected humanity for centuries. Rucka, who also wrote the screenplay for both films, builds a universe where queer representation isn’t just present—it’s vital.
The 2020 film, directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood, was lauded for its powerful female lead and groundbreaking LGBTQ+ representation, especially in the central romance between Joe (Marwan Kenzari) and Nicky (Luca Marinelli)—two immortal men whose love has endured across wars and empires. Their kiss, declaration of love, and everyday tenderness felt radical in a genre that often sidelines queer characters or reduces them to sidekicks.
In The Old Guard 2, the sequel brings back core cast members—Theron, KiKi Layne (Nile), Matthias Schoenaerts (Booker), Marwan Kenzari (Joe), Luca Marinelli (Nicky), Veronica Ngô (Quỳnh), Chiwetel Ejiofor (James Copley)—and introduces newcomer antagonists Uma Thurman (Discord) and Henry Golding (Tuah). Across exotic locations and high-stakes missions, the film explores what happens when immortals face mortality, legacy, and ancient rivalries.
Old Guard 2 picks up where the first movie left off—with Quynh’s shocking return from the depths of the sea. Once presumed dead, her reunion with Andy is complicated, riddled with betrayal and existential conflict.
The sequel expands on themes of trauma, loyalty, and the ethics of power. How do you live when you cannot die? How do you love when time makes everyone else temporary—except for one?
Old Guard 2 premiered exclusively on Netflix last July 2, 2025. While the exact release date may vary by region, it is available globally on the platform. Whether you’re here for the explosive action, compelling character arcs, or groundbreaking LGBTQ+ visibility, this sequel delivers on all fronts.
If The Old Guard was a game-changer for queer superhero storytelling, Old Guard 2 is a full-throttle affirmation that love—especially queer love—is not just eternal. It’s immortal.
Happy viewing!
