Darkman II: The Return of Durant

After taking down crime boss Durant, Westlake, also known as Darkman, works on improving his synthetic skin formula that is limited by photosensitivity. He funds his experiments by stealing from criminals, aiming to create a more permanent and durable synthetic skin. His ongoing research is driven by the desire to overcome his skin's natural limitations and enhance his vigilante capabilities.

Robert Durant, who was left in a coma after his previous confrontation with Westlake, suddenly wakes up unexpectedly. He quickly mobilizes his former associates to further his criminal ambitions. Durant’s revival signifies a renewed threat to Westlake and the city, setting the stage for the upcoming conflict.

Durant, assembling his reformed team, breaks out the brilliant criminal scientist Dr. Hathaway from prison. Hathaway had been working on experimental particle-beam weaponry, which Durant now intends to utilize for destructive power and black market sales. This act signifies Durant’s push toward high-tech weapon development and increased danger.

Disguised and using a false identity, Westlake meets scientist David Brinkman, who has surpassed the 99-minute photosensitivity limit of Westlake’s synthetic skin. They agree to collaborate in hopes of developing a permanent synthetic skin, with Westlake seeing Brinkman as a partner in overcoming their mutual challenge. The encounter also introduces Laurie, Brinkman's sister, into the story.

Durant recognizes that Brinkman’s lab has the necessary power supplies for his plans. When Brinkman refuses Durant’s offers to buy the building, Durant responds by torturing and murdering his staff as a warning. This brutal act highlights Durant’s relentless pursuit of his criminal objectives.

Westlake discovers Brinkman’s lifeless body, marked by a missing finger—a calling card left by Durant. Recognizing the signature of his old nemesis, Westlake vows revenge. This event intensifies his resolve to stop Durant and avenge Brinkman's murder.

Dr. Hathaway finishes developing highly destructive particle-beam weapons capable of destroying small buildings with a single shot. Durant plans to sell these powerful weapons on the black market, and his first buyers are white supremacist groups, escalating the threat to the city.

Westlake meets TV reporter Jill Randall, who is investigating Durant’s suspected return. She runs his fingerprints and deduces his secret identity as Darkman. Despite initial mistrust, they form a reluctant partnership, sharing information and combining efforts against Durant.

Jill Randall reports on Durant’s resurgence but is killed when Durant plants a car bomb, eliminating her as a threat. Her death angers Westlake and underscores the danger Durant poses, fueling his determination for vengeance.

Durant attempts to buy Brinkman’s building from Laurie but is refused. He then kidnaps Laurie, who is distressed and unwilling to sell her late brother’s property. Westlake tries to intervene but fails to prevent her kidnapping, leading to a tense rescue operation.

Using his synthetic skin, Westlake disguises himself as one of Durant’s thugs to infiltrate their hideout. A fierce battle ensues, resulting in the deaths of Durant’s men, Hathaway, and the white supremacist buyers. Westlake successfully rescues Laurie, confronting Durant as he tries to escape.

Durant attempts to flee in his car but is unaware that Westlake has rigged it with a bomb. The explosion kills Durant, ending his reign of terror once and for all. Westlake ensures Durant’s demise with a strategic trap, symbolizing his victory and closure.

After the final battle, Westlake says goodbye to Laurie and reflects on his fallen friends, including Randall. He vows to continue his lone vigilante fight for justice, dedicating himself to protecting the innocent despite the personal costs involved.