Apple TV+ returns with The Family Plan 2, the follow-up to its 2023 streaming hit. While the first film drew lukewarm reviews but still managed to capture viewer attention, this holiday-themed sequel aims to add festive charm, international stakes, and a new villain to the mix. With Mark Wahlberg reprising his role as ex-mercenary family man Dan Morgan and Kit Harington stepping in as the antagonist, the question remains: does this sequel improve on its predecessor, or is it another disposable holiday watch?
Story
Picking up two years after the original, The Family Plan 2 finds Dan Morgan settling into domestic life with wife Jessica (Michelle Monaghan) and their kids, Nina (Zoe Colletti), Kyle (Van Crosby), and toddler Max (Peter & Theo Lindsey). The family now knows all about Dan’s covert past — but life is calm until Nina announces she won’t be home for Christmas, choosing to stay in London for college.
Determined to keep holiday traditions alive, Dan uses his security firm job to land a UK-based client, cleverly turning work into a festive family trip. His plans take a detour when he discovers Nina’s boyfriend, Omar (Reda Elazouar), whose awkward habit of calling Dan “daddy” tests his patience. Things escalate when the Morgans cross paths with Dan’s estranged half-brother Aidan (Kit Harington), a charismatic yet spiteful adversary intent on revenge.
Performances
Mark Wahlberg’s easygoing charm remains the backbone of the film, while Michelle Monaghan’s expanded role lets her shine beyond the “supportive spouse” archetype. Their onscreen chemistry feels more natural here than in the first outing. Zoe Colletti and Van Crosby maintain the lighthearted sibling energy, although their embarrassment over their parents’ antics sometimes feels repetitive. Kit Harington brings a touch of nuance to Aidan, avoiding the cartoonish villain vibe and instead leaning into family resentment.
Behind the Scenes
Directed once again by Simon Cellan Jones with a screenplay by David Coggeshall, the film attempts to blend action-comedy with warm holiday vibes. The European setting and Christmas backdrops offer visual appeal, though much of the humor recycles gags from the original — singalong car rides, awkward tech complaints, and “parents embarrassing kids” beats. Action sequences are serviceable but lack the impact of close-combat cinematography, with a wide-shot double-decker bus fight being a missed opportunity.
Final Verdict
If the first Family Plan left you cold, this sequel probably won’t change your mind. While it expands locations, improves the leads’ chemistry, and introduces a more layered antagonist, its recycled humor and safe action staging hold it back from greatness. That said, the holiday setting and family-centric plot may make it a pleasant background watch while decorating the tree. Stream it if you’re in the mood for a light, festive action-comedy — skip it if you’re after something more memorable.
📅 The Family Plan 2 premiered on Apple TV+ on November 21, 2025.
