**Jon Bernthal and Ben Affleck Star in the Side-Splitting and Action-Filled *The Accountant 2***
Matt Damon may soon find himself with some serious competition—Jon Bernthal and Ben Affleck’s compelling chemistry in *The Accountant 2* could signal the close of the legendary Matt-and-Ben era.
In an unexpected twist, this follow-up to Gavin O’Connor’s 2016 action sensation is brimming with humor, all thanks to the surprising comedic partnership of Affleck and Bernthal. The two actors return as Christian Wolff, the autistic accountant skilled in martial arts, and his mercenary sibling, Braxton. Unlike the original film, which often kept them apart, *The Accountant 2* (or *The Accountant Squared*, as O’Connor refers to it) pairs them together in a frenzied buddy-cop escapade. The outcome? An electrifying blend of action, comedy, and brotherly quips that captivates viewers.
O’Connor, recognized for sports films like *Warrior* and *Miracle*, has shaped one of 2025’s most surprisingly amusing movies.
### *The Accountant 2* Brings Forward a Menacing New Antagonist, a Quest for Revenge, and Line Dancing
Remaining faithful to its predecessor, *The Accountant 2* features yet another complex riddle for Christian to decipher. Eight years after the first film’s events, his former Treasury Department ally, Raymond King (J.K. Simmons), is assassinated after conferring with a ruthless killer (portrayed effortlessly by Daniella Pineda). In pursuit of justice, Ray’s mentee Marybeth Medina (Cynthia Addai-Robinson) seeks Christian’s assistance, despite her regimented methods clashing with his unorthodox reasoning.
Tensions rise when Christian recruits his unpredictable brother Braxton for the task. While Pineda’s assassin follows her own motives, the brothers engage in playful bickering and struggle through high-stakes situations, presenting both thrilling action and hysterical moments.
As in the original film, Christian adheres to his meticulously organized lifestyle in his reliable Airstream RV, depending on his assistant Justine (Alison Wright) for research and even relationship tips. Christian is the intellectual, methodically analyzing everything—including online dating systems—whereas Braxton relies on instinct and might. However, underneath their disparities, both share a sense of loneliness, and *The Accountant 2* ultimately evolves into a narrative about their reunion.
Comic book enthusiasts will relish witnessing the former *Batman* and *Punisher* actors delve into a heart-stopping conclusion, but the film’s most surprisingly delightful moment unfolds at a Los Angeles honky-tonk bar. Here, Braxton prompts Christian to flirt with an enchanting cowgirl, resulting in a comical and unexpectedly tender sequence.
Affleck disclosed at the film’s SXSW premiere that he dedicated months to mastering his line dancing abilities for this particular scene. Yet, it’s not just the choreography—his portrayal encapsulates Christian’s joy and thrill as he ventures outside his comfort zone. And just when the moment seems perfect, a bar brawl breaks out, concluding with a freeze-frame of Braxton poised for action—an homage to ’80s action films that had the SXSW audience in stitches.
### Affleck and Bernthal Produce Comedy Gold in *The Accountant 2*
At times, *The Accountant 2* feels almost too extraordinary to be real—not in terms of believability, but due to the sheer shock that a studio sequel of this nature exists.
Screenwriter Bill Dubuque, who also penned the original film, provides everything fans could hope for in a sequel: a new mystery, thrilling action, and an engaging character journey for Christian. The clunky romantic subplot involving Anna Kendrick’s character has been replaced with Christian’s adorably awkward dating attempts. Most crucially, Dubuque fully embraces the electric rapport between Christian and Braxton, which was merely touched upon in the first film’s climax.
On paper, an action movie led by Affleck and Bernthal might appear destined for dramatic intensity. Yet, *The Accountant 2* takes a distinct path, tapping into the comedic possibilities of its leads.
Affleck, known for his comedic roles in films such as *The Last Duel*, *Air*, and *Good Will Hunting*, adopts a more nuanced approach here. As Christian, he serves as the straight man—constantly bewildered by his sibling’s emotional outbursts and theatrical flair. Nevertheless, Affleck injects sly, self-satisfied smirks, allowing the audience to share in the humor as Christian revels in his own cleverness.
Bernthal, not typically recognized for comedy, has captivated audiences with his engaging performance in *The Bear*. As Braxton, he infuses a chaotic, youthful energy into his rugged persona, making him the ideal contrast to Christian’s restrained nature.