Down Periscope 2 picks up years after the events of the original film, with Lieutenant Commander Tom Dodge (Kelsey Grammer) now a respected figure in the Navy, albeit still known for his unorthodox methods. Dodge is reluctantly called out of semi-retirement to lead a new mission after a fleet of modern submarines falls prey to a high-tech cyberattack. With advanced vessels compromised, the Navy turns to Dodge’s beloved diesel sub, the USS Stingray, now a museum exhibit, to carry out a covert operation.
Dodge reunites with his old crew, including the eccentric Sonar (Harland Williams), who now works in sonar training, and Nitroy (Rob Schneider), now a Navy instructor. They’re joined by new recruits, including a by-the-book officer (played by Anna Kendrick) who clashes with Dodge’s freewheeling style.
The mission involves tracking down a rogue submarine controlled by an international cyber-terrorist group. Along the way, Dodge’s unconventional tactics—like using decoys and outdated equipment—prove surprisingly effective against the enemy’s modern systems. Hilarious mishaps occur, including a sequence where the Stingray’s outdated sonar creates accidental karaoke sessions onboard.
The climax sees Dodge and his crew outmaneuvering the rogue sub in a tense underwater battle, using teamwork and ingenuity to save the day. Dodge earns a renewed respect from the Navy while imparting valuable lessons about adaptability and resilience to the younger generation.
The film ends with the Stingray returning to its museum, leaving Dodge contemplating one more adventure, hinting at future possibilities.
Spending Budget
The production budget for Down Periscope 2 was approximately $65 million, a significant increase from the original film’s budget to accommodate modern filmmaking standards. The funds were allocated to:
- Set Design: Transforming the iconic USS Stingray into a functioning set with updated visuals while maintaining its vintage charm.
- Special Effects: Utilizing advanced CGI for underwater battle sequences and realistic submarine operations, giving the film a modern edge.
- Cast Salaries: Bringing back Kelsey Grammer and key original cast members while onboarding new talent like Anna Kendrick.
- Location Shoots: Filming in various naval facilities and underwater scenes in controlled environments.
- Marketing: A robust global campaign, including trailers, interviews, and viral social media promotions, ensured the film reached a broad audience.
Release Date
The film is scheduled for release on July 18, 2025, positioning it as a summer blockbuster. This date strategically avoids clashes with major superhero films while appealing to families and nostalgic fans of the original movie.
Success Story
Down Periscope 2 has already garnered significant buzz due to the nostalgia surrounding the original film and the return of beloved characters. Early screenings received positive feedback for its blend of humor, heart, and thrilling underwater sequences.
Critics have praised its ability to balance comedy with action while staying true to the original’s charm. The updated visuals and strong performances have made it a crowd-pleaser. With its moderate budget and clever marketing, the film is expected to achieve financial success, especially as fans of the original bring new generations to theaters.
Anticipation is high, with projections suggesting a global box office return of over $150 million, ensuring a solid success for the studio.
