If the post-apocalyptic society depicted in Mad Max was one attempting to stave off chaos, the society in Mad Max 2 is one dealing with a chaos firmly entrenched. With fuel supplies low and no semblance of normal left to turn to, most people unfortunate enough to be alive have banded together in tribe-like bands. Some of these groups are peaceful and seek to find a way to rebuild; others exist as hyper-violent scavengers. Somewhere between the two exist loners and wanderers — people like Max.

Mad Max ended with its titular character having turned his back on the frail society he had worked so hard to uphold. With his wife and child killed in the first film and little responsibility holding him from doing anything but survive, Max treads a line dangerously close to the psychopathic clans he still battles. When he encounters a peaceful band of settlers with a dream of a new society and a dire need of aid, however, his solo existence is questioned — perhaps there is still a cause worth fighting for.

Starring a frankly amazing Mel Gibson, the film is a masterwork of chase scenes, clashes, and BDSM fashion. For long time fans or newcomers drawn in by the unexpectedly brilliant Fury Road, Mad Max 2 is a thing to behold.

Mad Max 2: The Road Warrior
1981
dir. George Miller
94 min.