Adam Sandler, known for his aversion to sequels, made an exception with Grown Ups 2 after the financial success of the first film. However, this sequel falls into many of the traps common to follow-ups, primarily its disjointed and haphazard nature, lacking a cohesive storyline.
In a serious drama, this narrative incoherence would be a fatal flaw. Fortunately, Grown Ups 2 embraces its absurdity and functions as a series of visual gags akin to Jackass. By disregarding logic and surrendering to the mayhem, viewers can find 90 minutes of amusement.
Embrace the Chaos
Watching Grown Ups 2 is an exercise in mental relaxation. There’s little need to remember character names or relationships; recognition by appearance suffices. The film presents a collection of eccentric characters, including an energetic Black youngster who bites like a dog, a middle-aged woman fixated on a sixth-grade crush, a janitor pretending to be a fitness instructor, a muscular woman in love with a skinny man, a cop who shoots his way through traffic, and a fraternity with tribal-like behavior.
Outlandish Shenanigans
The film thrives on the collision of neurotics and fanatics, showcasing every conceivable bizarre, madcap, and idiotic scenario. Humiliating the vulnerable, a recurring theme from the first film, continues here. An innocent school bus driver is treated like a puppet, suspended upside down, and subjected to comical mishaps. The hapless principal’s car is vandalized and doused in paint. The core group of friends endures a naked cliff jump, and one is rolled down the street inside a tire, showcasing the film’s dedication to slapstick comedy. Misfortune rains down on various characters; they are knocked down, struck by basketballs, run over by tires but still manage to smile in the face of pain.
Stars Step Into the Comedy Ring
Shaquille O’Neal, despite a later billing, delivers a memorable performance, amplified by his imposing physique. His heroic save at the climax brings to mind the Hulk’s dramatic entrances.
The trend of retired athletes venturing into comedy continues to grow. As evidenced by Mike Tyson’s contribution to The Hangover, he proved he had comedic talents. O’Neal’s acting experience is even more extensive. Did these sports Icons that once created great waves on the field ever Imagine playing a clown to tickle the spectators in a farce?
Gross-Out Humor and Missed Opportunities
Beyond the physical humor, Grown Ups 2 delves into the realm of crude jokes, including urine, feces, burps, and vomit. Memorable moments include a character being doused in moose urine and a deep kiss with a dog, but the film’s excessive bathroom humor becomes tiresome. Surprisingly, the film lacks an end-credits scene; given that it runs well, not having one is a shame.