Vacation Friends 2 Review: A Punishingly Unamusing Comedy Sequel

Vacation Friends 2 Review: A Painfully Unfunny Comedy Sequel

In the world of comedy sequels, there is often a struggle to find ways to justify their own existence. Repetition often trumps reinvention, resulting in lackluster follow-ups that fail to recapture the magic of their predecessors. Unfortunately, this is also the case with Vacation Friends 2, an unwanted and painfully unfunny continuation of the 2021 mediocre caper.

A Wasted Opportunity

The original Vacation Friends, although not as entertaining as it could have been, had the potential for an interesting set-up. It explored the tenuous friendships formed on holiday when options are limited and inhibitions are loosened. However, by cranking up the chaos and absurdity to an unbearable level, the film lost any semblance of believability. The sequel takes this lack of credibility to new heights, as the couples find themselves on yet another ill-fated vacation together.

What makes the sequel even more alienating than its predecessor is the fact that the characters are nothing more than crude cartoon caricatures. Motivations and even personalities change from scene-to-scene, leaving the audience puzzled and disconnected from any emotional investment in the story.

A Lack of Laughs

Perhaps the most glaring failure of Vacation Friends 2 is its complete lack of comedic moments that resonate. The film is devoid of jokes that land, relying instead on dizzying chaos to distract from its laugh-free one-liners. It feels like a creaky sitcom from the 2000s that has been stretched out into a full-length movie, with the actors waiting for a canned laughter track that never comes.

Even the talented cast, who valiantly tried to overcome the shortcomings of the original film, are left drowning in a sea of unfunny material. Meredith Hagner’s comedic shtick, which was utilized much better in the underrated thriller Joy Ride, falls flat here. Lil Rel Howery’s charming everyman persona also fails to save the film from its own laziness and lack of focus.

Treating the Audience as Children

What is particularly baffling about Vacation Friends 2 is its tonal inconsistency. The film’s work subplot and action subplot are presented in such broad strokes and hammy acting that one could mistake it for a children’s movie. It feels as though we are waiting for a talking dog to be the center of the action. However, it is important to note that this is an R-rated comedy that fails to cater to its intended audience.

Instead of engaging the audience and demanding their attention, Vacation Friends 2 comes across as a half-hearted effort that even the filmmakers themselves do not seem to care about. This lack of enthusiasm is contagious, leaving viewers disinterested and likely double-screening the film, giving it the bare minimum of their attention.

Editorial: A Decline in Comedy Sequels

Vacation Friends 2 is just one example of the decline in quality that has plagued comedy sequels. Instead of building upon the success and humor of the original film, many sequels fall into the trap of repetitiveness and lackluster writing. Creativity takes a backseat to commercial interests, resulting in movies that lack the inspiration needed to create a truly enjoyable comedic experience.

It is important for filmmakers to remember that comedy is an art form that demands innovation and fresh perspectives. While it may be tempting to cash in on the success of a previous film, it is equally important to challenge oneself and push the boundaries of what is possible within the genre.

Advice: Demand Better Comedy

As consumers and fans of comedy, we have the power to demand better. Instead of settling for uninspiring and unfunny sequels, we should support films that take risks and strive for greatness. By holding filmmakers accountable and showing our support for original and inventive comedy, we can encourage a renaissance in the genre.

It is also important for filmmakers to listen to their audience and take their feedback seriously. Understanding what works and what doesn’t can help shape future films and create a more satisfying comedic experience for everyone involved.

In conclusion, Vacation Friends 2 is a painfully unfunny comedy sequel that squanders the talent of its cast and fails to deliver any laughs. It serves as a reminder of the decline in quality that often plagues comedy sequels and the need for a renewed focus on creativity and originality in the genre.