Two star

SO the curse of the sequel strikes again.

Agents J and K (Tommy Lee-Jones and Will Smith) are back in black to save the planet once more from the threat of yet another alien who wishes to wipe us out.

It all starts well with the team reunited for some more intergalactic butt-kicking and jokes aplenty.

There are enough chortles to keep the audience amused as the fearless duo battle against the formidable Lara Flynn-Boyle.

Jackass favourite Johnny Knoxville makes his debut acting appearance and is not at all bad, although he doesn't get nearly enough screen time.

But two things soon become very clear. Number one, this was a rush job. Apparently, they were trying to wrap up filming before a looming actors' strike and the script was still being written as scenes were being shot - it really shows.

Number two, the quality of writing from the original is not there. Yes, there are laughs to be had the whole way through but you really do get the feeling that everyone just wants to say their lines and get home.

Loose ends are not tied up, characters either turn up unexplained or disappear without trace and even a cameo appearance from Michael Jackson adds nothing.

Will Smith tries his best with a bad lot while Tommy Lee-Jones spends his time looking bemused at the whole thing.

One and a half hours later and you too will have the same expression on your face.

SC