Jokes as dead as the chest...

Rating: 4/10 (14 July 2006)

When I went to the first film on a whim I was expecting nothing and got everything. So, when I was expecting everything with the second and got nothing, I suppose I shouldn't have been surprised. Still, it's disappointing when such a long anticipated release falls so flat. I'll admit that I laughed at times - mostly because I felt I needed to on some level or a few around me were giggling - but upon further reflection, it was shallow laughter. The gags just didn't cut it, the characters seem to have lost their spark, and the plot didn't inspire much anticipation or excitement. Although it was nice to see the original players return, they just didn't seem themselves in this installment - trying too hard to relive the first I suppose. I was still much impressed with the authenticity of the setting, props and costumes, but I felt the special effects, although amazing at times, played too big a role and were rather overdone and distracting in a way that overshadowed what should have been solid acting performances with the wit and timing of familiar characters from the first. It reminded me of a comedian that has an off night. Still, I'll no doubt buy it on DVD to complete my collection, so hopefully the third will make up for it.