“Happy Gilmore 2” is a testament to just how absurd a movie can go – until it becomes something truly special.
Bold Choices and a Fast Start
For a legacy sequel to work, it has to know its audience. “Happy Gilmore 2” does just that, maintaining the central charm and heart that made people love the original.
For a movie that plays it fairly safe overall, the first hour makes several bold decisions. With a variety of different ideas quickly thrust onscreen, Happy Gilmore enters a very different stage of life. Some of the initial story elements feel rushed, while others are able to effectively implement character development in rapid fashion.
Consistent Laughs and Heavy Cameos
After the flick is able to catch the audience up, it becomes nonstop fun. The film has a consistent barrage of jokes – meaning some land, some don’t. But… for the most part, “Happy Gilmore 2” proves to be a substantial success on a comedic front. It dives into multiple different facets of humor, with quips that older fans will surely enjoy and more modern comedy that a new generation of fans can embrace.
“Happy Gilmore 2” also includes an abundance of cameos. This detracts from the experience at times, as the movie grows more concerned with highlighting a familiar face than cementing the story itself.
There are gems in the mix though – specifically in the performances from Ben Stiller, Bad Bunny and Scottie Scheffler. Only when the movie gets past the feeling of “Adam Sandler and friends” does it truly begin to feel like a “Happy Gilmore” experience.
Sandler’s Return and a Bit of Heart
Sandler himself immerses back into the character, though in a very different way. As co-writer, Sandler’s comedy seeps onscreen. His dialogue is just as sharp as ever, with quick-witted jokes and visual gags demanding laughs.
“Happy Gilmore 2” is also a surprisingly heartfelt experience. Though this sentiment is inconsistent throughout, it reigns supreme in the end.
All the Stupidity… in the Best Way
The film is also able to raise the stakes… in modern fashion. The directions that “Happy Gilmore 2” goes in will frustrate many. If you’re able to shut off your brain and lean into the ridiculousness, there’s a lot of joy to be had. This is ultimately the key to your enjoyment of “Happy Gilmore 2.”
This isn’t a movie for critics – it’s a movie for fans.
“Happy Gilmore 2” brings the beloved character back to center stage with an abundance of comedy, new twists and heart. It may be overstuffed and uneven at times, but Sandler’s magnetic presence once again reminds viewers why the original is so beloved. It’s 114 minutes of glorious stupidity – and for the right audience, that’s exactly what it should be.
Rating: 4 out of 5
