Five things to expect in Netflix’s upcoming ‘The Old Guard 2’

Theatrical release poster of Netflix’s The Old Guard 2. Photo Credit- IMDb

Netflix’s The Old Guard 2 is set for a release on July 2, 2025, and fans of the 2020 action-packed superhero hit are buzzing with anticipation. Directed by Victoria Mahoney, this sequel to the Charlize Theron-led blockbuster promises to expand on the immortal warriors’ saga, based on Greg Rucka’s comic series from Image Comics. With a new trailer on the horizon and a freshly released poster igniting excitement, here are five authentic and accurate things to expect from The Old Guard 2, drawn from official updates, fan discussions, and related insights.

More focus on immortality

The tagline on the promotional poster, “Eternity Has a Price,” sets the tone for a story that will likely add more depth into the emotional and physical burdens of immortality. In the first film, we saw Andy (Charlize Theron) grappling with centuries of loss, particularly the betrayal of her first companion, Quynh (Veronica Ngo), who was trapped in an iron maiden at the bottom of the ocean. The IMDb plot synopsis reveals that The Old Guard 2 will explore the resurfacing of a long-lost immortal likely Quynh, now free and seeking revenge, as hinted in the first film’s post-credits scene and discussed amongst fans on social media.

New faces and expanded roles

The first thing to expect is that there will be new faces appearing in this sequel. Fresh casts with different roles culminating in the theme of immortality in the film will be introduced to the immortal squad with Uma Thurman and Henry Golding joining the cast. Golding plays Tuah, an old friend of Andy’s who, according to Netflix, holds the key to unraveling the mystery of immortal existence. This addition hints at a bigger exploration of the immortals’ origins, a topic only briefly touched upon in the first film. Thurman’s role remains under wraps, but her casting alongside returning stars like KiKi Layne (Nile), Chiwetel Ejiofor (Copley), and Matthias Schoenaerts (Booker) promises new alliances and tensions.

Top-level action

The first Old Guard was commended for its sharp action sequences, from Andy’s axe-wielding combat to the team’s almost flawless coordination in battle. The sequel’s poster, featuring a helicopter and explosions in the background, signals that The Old Guard 2 will bring more intensity. Theron told Tudum that the film offers “insane action” and “gorgeous locations,” with filming taking place in stunning spots like Riva Di Solto, Bergamo, Italy, according to IMDb. The addition of new weapons for Nile, as Layne mentioned, suggests fresh fight, potentially involving Tuah’s expertise or Quynh’s vengeful wrath.

A focus on Nile’s growth and leadership

KiKi Layne’s character, Nile, attracted audience into the world of immortals in the first film, a newly minted immortal struggling to accept her fate. In The Old Guard 2, she’s found her place within the team, as Layne shared with Tudum: “She’s still asking questions, that’s just who she is, but she’s found her place within the team.” This evolution will likely see Nile stepping into a more active leadership role, especially as Andy grapples with her mortality. Layne’s excitement about working with Theron, whom she calls a trailblazer for women in action, hints at powerful on-screen mentorship moments.

A fresh directorial vision with Victoria Mahoney

Gina Prince-Bythewood handled the direction of the first Old Guard, bringing a raw, emotional intensity to the action genre. For the sequel, Victoria Mahoney takes over, marking her first major feature film directorial role after working on high-profile projects like Lovecraft Country. Mahoney’s involvement, announced in August 2021, brings a new perspective to the franchise, potentially emphasizing diverse storytelling and visual ability. The film’s production faced challenges, with Theron noting in July 2024 that it was shut down five weeks into post-production due to Netflix’s regime changes, but additional photography in October 2024 ensured its completion. Mahoney’s direction, paired with a new musical soundtrack by Max Aruj and Ruth Barrett, will likely give The Old Guard 2 a distinct tone while staying true to the comics’ gritty roots.

Final thoughts

The Old Guard 2 is shaping up to be an action-packed, emotionally charged sequel that builds on the first film’s strengths while introducing new styles and characters. With Charlize Theron’s Andy facing the consequences of mortality, Nile stepping into her own, and a vengeful Quynh with her plots of damnation, the immortal warriors’ next chapter promises to be their most challenging yet as seen in the trailer, fans are ready to see how this story of eternity, sacrifice, and survival unfolds. Mark your calendars for July 2 as immortality will be revealed.