I haven't read the books, and most likely won't, but I've dug both of these films based on Dan Brown's novels. The sequel (of sorts) to The Davinci Code is a far superior film, though. Ron Howard and Tom Hanks are both back as director and star, and both do more with the material than in the first movie. That said, the films are pretty different. While the first one is more of a mystery movie, Angels and Demons is more of an action/adventure movie.
This time, the Vatican sends for Professor Robert Langdon (Hanks) after the Pope dies, and the Cardinals who are next in line are kidnapped. From there it's a race against time to find the Cardinals before they are all killed, and the Vatican and surrounding area is destroyed via a small black-hole. Sound far-fetched? Maybe, but it's done very well. Overall, it is pretty interesting stuff that connects some religious history with modern scientific discoveries. Sure, the two rarely mix, but that is the whole point of this movie and provides the crux of the story. As stated, Hanks is pretty good here as are all of the supporting cast. Ewan McGregor is very good as the Pope's Carmelengo, as is Armin Mueller-Stahl as a high-ranking Cardinal. Stellan Skarsgard seems a bit wasted here, but otherwise a very good performance by all.
The film is quite suspenseful and keeps you on your toes till the end. The action is very briskly paced, but without getting confusing and rushed. In general, this is a very solid movie, and a big improvement over the first, although I dug that one as well. I'd recommend both of these films, however you need not see both as they do not connect as direct sequels.
Give Angels and Demons a rent, there are worse ways to spend an evening.
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