Pusher II
Performance & Direction: Pusher II Review
Last updated: February 23, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Pusher II (2004) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a HIT with a verified audience rating of 7.2/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Action.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Action is often anchored by its ensemble, and Pusher II features a noteworthy lineup led by Mads Mikkelsen . Supported by the likes of Leif Sylvester and Anne Sørensen , the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: While the cast delivers competent and professional performances, they are occasionally hampered by a script that leans into familiar archetypes.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
Story & Plot Summary: Pusher II
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 2004, Pusher II is a Action, Crime, Drama film directed by Nicolas Winding Refn. The narrative delivers highly intense sequences and pulse-pounding confrontations that keep viewers on the edge of their seats. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Mads Mikkelsen.
Story Breakdown
In this high-octane feature, Nicolas Winding Refn establishes a narrative structure that follows a classic action blueprint: establishing the protagonist's world, introducing a formidable antagonist, and escalating the stakes. Tonny is released from prison - again. This time he has his mind set on changing his broken down life, but that is easier said than done. The film balances spectacular set pieces with character moments for Mads Mikkelsen, ensuring the action serves the story rather than overwhelming it.
Narrative Structure
- Opening Hook: The title opens with an explosive sequence that immediately establishes the stakes and introduces our protagonist in action.
- Character Arc: The main character shows growth throughout the story, though some supporting characters could have been more fully realized. Mads Mikkelsen's arc is present but occasionally predictable.
- Climax & Resolution: The final confrontation delivers on the buildup, with stakes at their highest and the protagonist using everything they've learned.
Ending Explained: Pusher II
Ending Breakdown: Directed by Nicolas Winding Refn, Pusher II resolves its central conflict while maintaining thematic consistency. The finale has been praised for its approach to action resolution.
The emotional climax centers on character transformation involving Mads Mikkelsen, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes with clear resolution of its central conflicts, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Main characters complete meaningful transformations, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the action themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Pusher II reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Pusher II Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Pusher II incorporates elements from real criminal cases. As a action, crime, drama film directed by Nicolas Winding Refn, it navigates the space between factual accuracy and narrative engagement for Mads Mikkelsen's character.
Historical Context
The film balances historical fidelity with cinematic storytelling. Core events maintain connection to source material while adapting for theatrical presentation.
The production demonstrates respect for its source material, focusing on emotional truth over strict chronology.
Accuracy Assessment: Pusher II adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch Pusher II?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Action films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of Mads Mikkelsen or the director
- Want an adrenaline rush without demanding perfection
Top Cast: Pusher II
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Where to Watch Pusher II Online?
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Google Play MoviesYouTubeFandango At HomeFlixFlingPusher II Parents Guide & Age Rating
2004 AdvisoryWondering about Pusher II age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Pusher II is 100 minutes (1h 40m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 7.2/10, and global performance metrics, Pusher II is classified as a HIT. It remains an essential part of the 2004 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Pusher II worth watching?
Pusher II is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Action movies. It has a verified rating of 7.2/10 and stands as a HIT in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Pusher II parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Pusher II identifies it as NR. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of Pusher II?
The total duration of Pusher II is 100 minutes, which is approximately 1h 40m long.
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How Pusher II Compares & Where it Ranks
Critic Reviews for Pusher II
'Pusher II' improves upon its predecessor, if only by a little. I found this 2004 flick to be comparatively more pleasant to watch, not in terms of a lack of violence or anything (there's plenty!) but more so just as a film in general - it feels more well made and a bit more progressive story-wise. It's still nothing perfect or anything that enthralled me at all, but I definitely class it highly (albeit minorly) than 'Pusher'. I would've preferred a sequel that followed up with Kim Bodnia's Frank, at least character-wise anyway as actor-wise Mads Mikkelsen is the one I'd prefer to watch instead. Mikkelsen puts in a good performance, 8 years on from his acting debut in the original. Away from Mads, Leif Sylvester Petersen is probably the standout - though all the support cast are pretty much level with each other to be honest. I'm interested to see where the third and final flick from this series goes, given Mads Mikkelsen's absence and, from what I gather from the tiniest of look-ups out of pure nosiness, Kim Bodnia's continued disappearance. Viaplay recommended 'Pusher 3' at the end of this film and their promo image features Zlatko Burić, so I know he makes it a hat-trick of appearances at least.
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This review has been verified for accuracy and editorial quality by our senior cinematic analysts.
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
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