The national consensus is that we’re all supposed to hate Adam Sandler movies and bash them for their weaknesses. Well since they’re unapologetic comedies that somehow continue to make money and make me laugh, I’ll pass on that unspoken agreement for now. Grown Ups 2 reteams Sandler and his buddies as they get into more hi-jinx. This time Sandler’s character has moved his family back to his hometown. To be honest there isn’t really a point to the story. It just exists. This isn’t the best way to follow up that defending Sandler opening I wrote. But the plot just motors along with no destination.
Most people didn’t seem to notice that Rob Schneider doesn’t reprise his role from the first movie, but all the others are back. Sandler, Kevin James, Chris Rock and David Spade play the film’s leads. I’d list out the wives, children and supporting characters too but that would be way too long. It’s basically an SNL reunion where they all bring some friends. With a PG-13 rating, the film gets away with being a family friendly comedy. More accurately the comedy is dumb and everyone knows that. The actors are in on the joke, which is a large reason why the fart jokes and insults come across as funny.
The biggest achievement in Grown Ups 2 is how the large ensemble cast are all adequately represented. Even though Sandler and James are significantly bigger stars than the other players, they aren’t the only characters to develop. Say what you will, but Sandler is well known for giving parts to his friends and arcs for Nick Swardson, Shaq, Tim Meadows and countless others are more than cameos. The chemistry among friends shows and that’s why the film is successful. It’s not redefining the wheel, but it’s a fun summer comedy.
Each film earns either zero, a half or a full arrow in five categories. The categories are Acting, Writing/Directing, Emotion, Innovation and Overall Impression. The arrows are added up to equal the full score.
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