What Is Darkman II: The Return of Durant About?
The premise of Darkman II: The Return of Durant in 280 words, with nothing given away. The full story follows below.
In the rain‑slick streets of a city that never sleeps, a brilliant scientist turned nocturnal avenger walks the line between shadow and light. Peyton Westlake is scarred by a tragic accident, yet his genius fuels a desperate quest to rebuild his own face with a synthetic skin that clings to life only while darkness shields it. This fragile invention forces him into a relentless, time‑pressured existence, turning each night into a race against the inevitable sunrise.
The world he inhabits is a gritty urban playground where crime and ambition intertwine, and the very act of survival demands ingenuity and disguise. Westlake adopts the moniker Darkman, using his limited‑duration skin to blend into the underbelly of the city, stealing from those who profit from fear while hunting for a permanent solution to his own curse. The atmosphere hums with a blend of gritty realism and noir‑style suspense, where every alley could hide a new threat or an unexpected ally.
Yet the darkness that shelters him is soon pierced by the return of an old adversary. Durant, a ruthless figure from Westlake’s past, resurfaces with ambitions that threaten to tip the fragile balance of power. Their rivalry, forged in earlier violence, now hangs over the city like a gathering storm, promising a clash that could force Westlake to confront not only his nemesis but the limits of his own technology.
Against this backdrop of looming conflict, the story teases a tense dance of cat‑and‑mouse, where science, vengeance, and the unrelenting ticking of a 99‑minute clock shape every decision. The tone remains brooding and urgent, leaving the audience to wonder whether Darkman can outpace the light and outwit the shadow that hunts him.
What Happens in Darkman II: The Return of Durant?
The complete story of Darkman II: The Return of Durant, from the first scene to the last, in 635 words (about 3 minutes). Spoilers throughout. Names in the text link to 2 cast member pages.
Spoilers ahead
Peyton Westlake, a talented scientist, has been disfigured and scarred in a tragic accident. Despite his physical scars, he dedicates himself to perfecting a groundbreaking synthetic skin formula that could restore his appearance. To fund his research, he adopts the role of a vigilante known as Darkman, stealing from criminals and fighting against crime in the shadows. His synthetic skin, though revolutionary, remains limited by a significant flaw: it is extremely sensitive to light and can only last 99 minutes in the presence of sunlight before breaking down, making everyday life a constant challenge.
After defeating the ruthless crime boss Robert G. Durant, played by Larry Drake, Westlake hopes to continue his quest for a permanent solution. However, Durant survives the confrontation and is left in a coma. Unexpectedly, Durant awakens and quickly sets plans in motion for revenge. He swiftly assembles a team of his former allies, including the cunning scientist Dr. Alfred Hathaway, who has been developing advanced particle-beam weaponry capable of destroying entire buildings. Durant’s goal is to obtain these destructive devices and sell them on the black market, aiming to distribute high-powered weapons to dangerous groups, including white supremacists.
Meanwhile, Westlake encounters a fellow scientist named David Brinkman, played by Jesse Collins. Disguised and operating under a false identity, Westlake befriends Brinkman, who has made progress in overcoming the photosensitivity limitation of synthetic skin—successfully extending durability beyond the 99-minute limit. Recognizing the potential of their combined efforts, Westlake proposes a partnership to develop permanent synthetic skin. Brinkman, who is also dealing with personal issues involving his sister Laurie Brinkman (who is on uneasy terms with him), agrees to collaborate.
Durant, sensing the strategic importance of Brinkman’s lab—one of the few locations with the necessary power supply for his plans—makes a ruthless move. When Brinkman refuses Durant’s offer to buy the lab, Durant’s men brutally torture and murder him in retaliation. Westlake uncovers Brinkman’s body and notices that one of his fingers has been cut off, a calling card of Durant’s terror tactics. Realizing that his old nemesis is still alive and dangerous, Westlake swears revenge.
As the story unfolds, Hathaway completes his devastating particle-beam weapons, which possess enough power to destroy small buildings with a single shot. Durant begins lining up buyers, including a dangerous group of white supremacists eager to use the weapons for chaos and destruction. Westlake, meanwhile, learns about Durant’s return to the criminal scene through a TV report and seeks out journalist Jill Randall, played by [Kim Delaney], to gather more information. She becomes suspicious of Westlake and runs his fingerprints, eventually uncovering his true identity. Although reluctant at first, Westlake starts working with her, sharing his knowledge about Durant’s plans.
Tragedy strikes when Durant, now fully aware of Randall’s investigations, kills her with a car bomb, further fueling Westlake’s desire for justice. Determined to prevent Durant from making more destructive weapons, Westlake tries to protect Laurie, who is being pressured into selling her building to Durant. When she refuses, Durant kidnaps her, forcing Westlake into action. Disguised as Durant’s thugs using his synthetic skin, Westlake infiltrates Durant’s hideout, leading to a fierce confrontation. During the chaos, Westlake manages to kill Durant and his associates, who include Hathaway and the white supremacists, in a final showdown.
As Durant attempts to escape in his car, Westlake has anticipated his move. He rigs the vehicle with a bomb, and during the ensuing explosion, Durant meets his ultimate demise. With his enemies defeated and Laurie safe, Westlake bids her farewell, haunted but resolute. In the closing moments, he watches the news report confirming Randall’s death, and with a quiet but determined spirit, he vows to continue his solitary fight against crime and injustice, carrying the scars of his past as a reminder of the ongoing battle between darkness and justice.
Darkman II: The Return of Durant Timeline: Every Key Event in Order
13 key events in the order they happen, from “Westlake Continues Synthetic Skin Research” to “Westlake Bids Farewell and Continues Fight”.
- 1
Westlake Continues Synthetic Skin Research
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.
- 2
Durant Awakens from Coma
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.
- 3
Durant Releases Dr. Hathaway from Prison
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.
- 4
Westlake Teams Up with David Brinkman
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.
- 5
Durant Targets Brinkman’s Laboratory
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.
- 6
Discovery of Brinkman’s Murder
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.
- 7
Hathaway Completes Particle-Beam Weapons
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.
- 8
Westlake and Jill Randall Collaborate
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.
- 9
Jill Randall is Killed
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.
- 10
Durant Kidnaps Laurie
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.
Show the other 3 events of Darkman II: The Return of Durant Hide the last 3 events
- 11
Infiltration and Final Battle
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.
- 12
Durant’s Final Explosion
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.
- 13
Westlake Bids Farewell and Continues Fight
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.
Who Are the Main Characters in Darkman II: The Return of Durant?
4 characters, among them Peyton Westlake / Darkman, Dr. Alfred Hathaway and Laurie Brinkman: who each one is and the part they play in the story. 2 of them link to the actor’s page.
-
Peyton Westlake / Darkman
Played by Arnold Vosloo
A brilliant scientist turned vigilante, Westlake is scarred physically and emotionally by his past. His resilience and resourcefulness drive him to fight against crime, despite his limited synthetic skin technology that makes him vulnerable in light.
- 🦸♂️ Vigilante
- 🔬 Scientist
- 🛡️ Resilient
- DA
Dr. Alfred Hathaway
An innovative scientist working on secretive particle-beam weaponry, Hathaway is involved in dangerous activities with Durant. His expertise in experimental technology makes him a key figure in the film’s scientific themes.
- 🧪 Scientist
- 🔫 Weapon Developer
- 👨🔬 Experimental
- LB
Laurie Brinkman
A sympathetic scientist and sister to David, Laurie is caught in the conflict between her brother and Durant. Her interactions highlight her cautious but compassionate nature, and she becomes a target due to her connections.
- 👩🔬 Scientist
- 💔 Innocent
- 🧍 Supportive
- D
Durant
Played by Larry Drake
A ruthless criminal seeking power through illegal weapons and revenge, Durant is relentless and manipulative. His actions escalate the conflict and pose a persistent threat to Westlake and the city.
- 🔪 Crime Boss
- 😈 Ruthless
- 💣 Power Seeker
Where and When Is Darkman II: The Return of Durant Set?
Darkman II: The Return of Durant is set in City (Late 20th century). Here is why the time and place matter to the story.
When
Late 20th century
The events occur in a contemporary setting, likely during the late 20th century, a period marked by scientific advances, urban crime, and technological development. This era is typical for the depiction of vigilante justice and experimental weaponry in action films.
Where
City
The movie takes place in a modern city environment, characterized by its urban landscape, including laboratories, streets, and crime hotspots. The city is portrayed as a place of technological innovation as well as danger, reflecting the contrasts of progress and crime.
- 🌆 Urban
- 🏙️ Crime
- 🧪 Scientific
What Are the Themes of Darkman II: The Return of Durant?
3 ideas the story keeps returning to, among them Vigilantism, Science and Ethics and Power and Revenge.
-
01
Vigilantism
The film explores the theme of vigilante justice, with Peyton Westlake operating outside the law to confront crime and corruption. His battles highlight moral ambiguities and the personal costs of vigilantism in an urban setting.
-
02
Science and Ethics
The story emphasizes scientific experimentation, especially in synthetic skin and weaponry. It raises questions about the ethical boundaries of science when used for revenge, warfare, and survival.
-
03
Power and Revenge
Durant’s pursuit of power through illegal weapons and revenge against Westlake underscores themes of destructive ambition. The narrative demonstrates how obsession with revenge can lead to chaos and violence.
What Kind of Film Is Darkman II: The Return of Durant?
Dark in tone, with fast pacing and a straightforward story, going by the plot summary.
- Tone
- Dark
- Pacing
- Fast
- Story
- Straightforward
- Intensity
- High
- Ending
- Bittersweet
A dark and relentless superhero thriller driven by vengeance, where a scarred vigilante battles high-tech criminals amidst a gritty atmosphere of tragedy and moral conflict.
- vengeful
- gritty
- isolation
- determined
- somber
- chaotic
- revenge
- scientific experimentation
- vigilante justice
- disfigurement
Content notes: torture, murder, disfigurement, kidnapping, car bomb.
Quiz
How well do you remember Darkman II: The Return of Durant? Test yourself on the story.
Where to Watch Darkman II: The Return of Durant
Stream it on Philo, or rent or buy it from Amazon Video and Apple TV Store. US availability and prices from JustWatch.
Stream 1
Philo 
Streaming availability in the US, powered by 
