This is a really good continuation of the first film, building on the bond between the characters. Police officers Riggs and Murtaugh are investigating South African diplomats who are using their diplomatic status to commit crimes. Given how well Lethal Weapon did in 1987, it was natural to make a sequel. Everything that worked before – the actors, director, writers – returned for more buddy-cop action. The only real difference is the villains, portrayed by Joss Ackland and Derrick O’Connor as unsavory South African characters. Joe Pesci joins in as Leo Getz, a federal witness who the cops have to protect until his trial. From the very beginning, the movie establishes its tone with an intense car chase that's loud and visually striking. Riggs and Murtaugh are chasing down suspects while having their usual disagreements about police procedures. We understand they’re friends, and we know Riggs is still a dangerous force while Murtaugh represents more traditional policing methods. While the basic structure hasn't changed, the filmmakers do expand on their relationship throughout the film – with a few scenes that stand out as truly excellent when the characters face real danger. Despite all the chaos around them, you become invested in what happens to them because of their connection; it’s just well-written, even though some people criticize these movies as being violent and superficial cash grabs. It's safe to say this film belongs to Gibson, because that's how it was constructed. Some background about Riggs is revealed, and he even has a romantic interest in Patsy Kensit. Riggs delivers the jokes and does the over-the-top antics, while Glover’s Murtaugh continues to be his grounded counterpart; some of the clever scenes involving Murtaugh and the South African storyline are particularly well done by Glover. Regardless of any character development or subtle political commentary, the action is what takes center stage. Director Richard Donner clearly enjoys pushing the cast to their limits with explosions, fights, shootouts, more fast-paced chases, and so on until the film reaches a potentially unresolved ending. Two less impressive sequels would come later, both still making a lot of money, but this one marks the last time all the key ingredients combined successfully. It’s an entertaining Hollywood action comedy with two memorable leads demonstrating how to achieve great chemistry on screen. 7.5/10

Source on TMDB