Sequel to much-anticipated heist film starring iconic Scot on Amazon Prime this month

Den of Thieves 2: Pantera, the sequel to the 2018 heist movie, will start streaming on Amazon Prime Video later this month, much to the delight of fans

Heist movie fans are set for a cinematic treat this month, with the much-anticipated sequel to Den of Thieves poised to hit screens. Den of Thieves 2: Pantera will start streaming on Amazon Prime Video later this month.

The movie, featuring Paisley's own Gerard Butler and O'Shea Jackson Jr, is slated for an April 25 release on the streaming platform. The action-packed thriller marks the return of the actors reprising their roles from the first installment, with Gerard as Detective 'Big Nick' O'Brien and master thief Donnie Wilson portrayed by O'Shea. Christian Gudegast is also back at the helm, writing and directing the saga's next chapter.

Drawing inspiration from the notorious 2003 Antwerp diamond robbery, the story follows a former LA policeman who seeks out a genius crook in Europe, intending to capture him. His strategy involves earning the criminal's confidence and colluding with him on a massive heist.

Having premiered theatrically in the United States in January, Den of Thieves 2: Pantera raked in around $57 million on a budget of $40 million. It was met with a mix of praise and critique from both critics and moviegoers. Production company Lionsgate has already signalled that a third part is on its way.

Chatting with Variety about his stint alongside Gerard Butler, O'Shea Jackson Jr said: "To quote Ryan Reynolds, I want to work with Gerard until he's 90. I have such a family feel with these guys. I know how much I want to do these other films, but we cannot cheapen this beautiful thing that we made.

"This one took six or seven years to get done. I hope the next one doesn't. In our heart of hearts, we won't make it if it's not right and if it's not the same thing that made audiences fall in love with the franchise in the first place."

Den of Thieves 2: Pantera has garnered mixed reviews, with one critic hailing it as: "Gerard Butler's fun, flirty action bromance sequel". But another said: "Gerard Butler and O'Shea Jackson Jr. in a numbing sequel". The film clocks in at a hefty two hours and 24 minutes.

Another critic said the movie "mixes its many influences into a smooth spectacle so confident and patient in its assemblage that it instantly wins you over". While other said: "The heists are derivative, un-rehearsed and unexciting."

Audience reactions are similarly split, with one writing: "As a huge fan of the original, I really didn't enjoy this. I wanted more of the same but they went in other directions. For me it was the lack of memorable action scenes that really made this average. The heist was cool but everything else instantly forgettable."

But others were more positive, with one saying: "This movie ended up being far better than it had any business being. It actually is a surprisingly non-cynical fun watch."

And another said: "Den of Thieves 2: Pantera is a solid heist thriller with a gripping storyline. The plot isn't overly complex, making it an enjoyable watch for heist movie fans. Gerard Butler delivers a fantastic performance, embodying the tough, relentless cop. The action feels realistic, keeping you engaged throughout."