Myth-handling

You just know the world’s terribly messed up when its supposedly mighty gods can’t get their act together. And the Greek gods are seriously perplexing in “Wrath of the Titans,” sequel to the 2010 fantasy epic remake “Clash of the Titans.”

The cosmic beings aren’t all-knowing, and not very sensible: Zeus (Liam Neeson) attempts to reconnect with Hades (Ralph Fiennes), whom he banished to the underworld some time ago. Zeus soon discovers the folly of this plan, and requires the aid of his demigod son Perseus (Sam Worthington), slayer of legendary monsters, and now a widower and father to young Helius (John Bell).

So there’s Perseus’ mission of gathering allies and weapons, which actually doesn’t take very long. There’s Zeus’ gruelling ordeal, which also involves the release of the long-imprisoned Titan, the gigantic Kronos (that messy-looking rock-creature in the trailers). There’s also that cool-looking and shape-shifting labyrinth, which also houses a freaky Minotaur. There are deafening rampages and never-ending shimmery and glowy effects, too.

But the story’s too simple. It’s a visual showcase, but even then, the conflicts and the designs aren’t that impressive (save for the two-torsoed beings and giant cyclops). The hero’s fight scenes lack appeal, as well. Also, one god’s epiphany just isn’t convincing; the subsequent team-up lacks energy and crucial impact. Say what you will about “The Immortals,” but at least that had a climactic battle sequence that looked and felt mythic.