Movies tend to take some creative liberties when portraying different professions, and Debt Collector 2 is no exception. This action-packed sequel follows French and Sue, two enforcers who collect debts using their fists more than legal documents. As a real debt collection agency, we couldn’t resist watching this one with a critical eye—partly for fun, but mostly to see just how many Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) violations we could spot. Spoiler alert: it’s a lot.
So, let’s break it down—what Debt Collector 2 got right, what it got hilariously wrong, and our favorite moments, even if they’re wildly inaccurate.
What Debt Collector 2 Got Right
Believe it or not, the film does capture a few elements of real debt collection. For example, persistence is key in recovering unpaid debts. French and Sue don’t take no for an answer, and while their methods are... unconventional (to put it lightly), the concept of following up with debtors until the matter is resolved is at least somewhat realistic.
The movie also highlights the unpredictability of debt collection. In the real world, collectors never know what kind of response they’ll get when reaching out to someone. Fortunately, most responses don’t involve hand-to-hand combat in dimly lit warehouses.
What It Got Completely Wrong
Let’s start with the most obvious problem—French and Sue are walking FDCPA violations. If the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act had a Most Wanted list, these two would be at the top. Here are just a few of their infractions:
- Using physical violence to collect debts. This is not only illegal, but it’s also frowned upon in polite society.
- Failing to identify themselves as debt collectors. “Hi, we’re here to discuss your outstanding balance” is a lot more compliant than “Surprise! Time to get punched in the face.”
- Threatening debtors with harm. The FDCPA explicitly prohibits threats of violence, but these guys clearly didn’t get the memo.
Additionally, real debt collectors don’t work for crime lords (at least not the good ones). Agencies operate under strict laws and ethical guidelines, ensuring that collections are handled professionally and legally.
Our Favorite (and Most Ridiculous) Moments
Despite the legal absurdities, Debt Collector 2 delivers on action and entertainment. The fight choreography is well done, and the chemistry between French and Sue makes the film enjoyable. Even if it’s wildly unrealistic, it’s fun to imagine a world where debt collectors have black belts and can dodge bullets like action heroes.
One of our favorite parts? The fact that they treat debt collection like a street-level profession where every job leads to another, usually with higher stakes. If only real debt collection worked like a video game with progressively tougher “boss battles” and no paperwork.
The Verdict
If you’re looking for an accurate portrayal of debt collection, this movie is not it. If you want an over-the-top action film with some debt-related themes, then Debt Collector 2 delivers. Just don’t take any financial advice from French and Sue, and definitely don’t try their collection tactics in real life unless you want to end up in court.
For real, legal, and ethical debt recovery solutions (no fists involved), work with us today. We promise we won’t send martial artists after you.