Too much anticipation is always a bad thing. So for the sequel to one of my favourite films of the last couple of years, I tried to go in with moderate expectations. I had already read about about how The Hangover Part II was rehash of the first film. Ok by me. I had already read how the film didn’t bring anything new to the table. Wasn’t expecting it to. All I was really looking for another great night out with old friends; and perhaps to wake up the next morning and say “damn that was fun!”. So did the film drag me on a wild adventure? Or leave me stranded on a hotel rooftop alone?
Unfortunately, this time around, someone had switched the Roofies for Downers – and a good hangover that does not make for.
The Hangover Part II is essentially, as you probably already know, The Hangover but set in Thailand; or as Zach Galifianakis’ character, Alan, amusingly calls it ‘Thigh-land’. It was great to see the cast back together again and, like most nights out, the evening began well. Alan’s dislike for new Wolf Pack member Teddy (Mason Lee) is laugh-out-loud funny. But once the boys hit to Thailand, things start to go wrong in more ways than one.
Without going into great detail, the jokes just don’t hit this time around. And it’s not because the film is a rehash of the first movie. The set-ups are just too long and obvious, and the timing of many of the jokes seemed off – you chuckled, but seldom laughed. The film is also much more mean-spirited, and at one point I began to wonder why these guys don’t just didn’t quit being friends and go home.
The cameo appearances too are a little weak and seem jammed into the story rather than really serving it, especially Paul Giamatti who’s story arc has a lousy payoff and leaves you thinking “that was a waste of time” – much like chatting up a gorgeous blonde at the bar, only to find out later that she’s waiting for her lesbian life partner. Wow, did I just compare Paul Giamatti to a gorgeous blonde?!?! Must be the drugs!
Don’t get me wrong, the film’s not all bad. Zach Galifianakis is worth the price of admission alone, and Bradley Cooper, Ed Helms, Ken Jeong and Co all bring their characters back to life perfectly. There are some very funny moments but, as I said, these are few and far between. You just know the film’s off when the biggest laugh of the night is at your mate’s expense – as he himself is off to Thigh-land and has been charged, under strict instruction, with organising the ‘bachelor brunch’.
4/10 – A bad hangover, but not a completely wasted night out.
(Mates’ rating: Alex scored it 4/10, but Laurence was less than impressed and gave it 3/10)
Let me know what you thought of the film? Was it a wild night out for you?
