It is a truth universally acknowledged that sequels suck. While I too acknowledge the existence of equal and sometimes better sequels, the majority that we’re exposed to aren't always based on successful book/graphic novel series or set in a galaxy far, far away. These days, it seems that any film that elicits a laugh while simultaneously rating above 10% on Rotten Tomatoes is “worthy” of a follow up. The latest offering is ‘Bad Neighbours 2’. Returning to the director's chair is Nicholas Stoller, but I think even he realised that the 2014 original was only just good enough. This time, the screenwriters have brought in reinforcements courtesy of Stoller himself and the film’s own Seth Rogen along with his partner in crime, Evan Goldberg. And it’s paid off. ‘Bad Neighbours 2’ is hilarious and way better than its predecessor.
SWITCH: 'BAD NEIGHBOURS 2' TRAILER
Two years after the events of ‘Bad Neighbours’, Mac (Seth Rogan) and Kelly (Rose Byrne) are pregnant again and moving to a bigger home. Straddling the fine and precarious financial line between owning a new home and selling the old one, Mac and Kelly are all set to move so long as they can make it through 30 days of escrow. Cue the Sorority that moves in next door. A group of outcasts led by Shelby (Chloë Grace Moretz) decide to start their own sorority where they’re free to party, flout the sexist Greek system and be their own people. In an attempt to broker a deal to keep the partying down for the next 30 days, Mac and Kelly inadvertently start a war between the two properties and are forced to make an ally of an old enemy in order to win.
‘Bad Neighbours 2’ is hilarious and way better than its predecessor.
It’s the same cast (plus many new faces) and the same agenda, yet they’ve managed to pull off a totally new movie. New jokes, new angles and those sneaky bastards have actually snuck in some powerful themes of sexism, empowerment, friendship, identity and finding your place and worth in life. This is, of course, all in amongst the horrifically ungraceful sex scenes, drugs, dildos, physical comedy, ageist jokes, Zac Efron’s oiled-up topless dancing, and even a gag about the holocaust thrown in - because, well, what’s a comedy without one, right?
Grace Moretz holds her own in this rare comedy for the teen. She’s not really the playmaker when it comes to the jokes, but she’s definitely not out of place in this environment. Rogan, Byrne and Efron have once again brought their A-game and they bring the laughs thick and fast. Sure, there are more than a few gags that you’re forced to watch through your that make you wonder if you’re a bad person for doing so, but it’s all part or the beauty and charm that is ‘Bad Neighbours 2’. Kappa Nu!