The Best Bad Dream

In Ward’s disappointing sequel to 2009’s Total Immunity, Los Angeles FBI agent Jack Harper has just started a two-week vacation. While attending a lacrosse game that his 15-year-old son, Kevin, is playing in at Culver City High, he receives a phone call from informant and love interest Michelle Wu. Michelle, who’s on holiday in Santa Fe, N.Mex., with her sister, Jennifer, is in a panic—Jennifer has disappeared and Michelle fears her sister’s been kidnapped. Will Jack come to the rescue? Since Michelle once saved his life, Jack can’t refuse. In New Mexico, he becomes entangled in a bizarre conspiracy involving biker gangs, sexual slavery, and a Santa Fe lodge specializing in rejuvenation therapies for the elderly. Meanwhile, back in L.A., Kevin runs into trouble. At points, the over-the-top characters and contrived action give the story an almost cartoonish feel. Fans of Ward’s Red Baker and Four Kinds of Rain may feel as if they’re in a bad dream. (Jan.)