An echo of the first that lacks depth and originality.

Rating: 6/10 (4 January 2012)

The second installment of The Hangover promised to be bigger, better and funnier then before and was highly anticipated. Yet it failed to deliver.
Phil (Bradley Cooper), Stu (Ed Helms), Alan (Zach Galifianakis) and Doug (Justin Bartha) embark on yet another adventure following the engagement of Stu. But things never go smoothly for these lads before the wedding as they wake up not knowing where they are and the brides younger brother Teddy (Mason Lee) being missing.
Of course it was wise of Todd Phillips not to lose the groom again -needless to say he had limited options- but the film, following the theme of the first, someone of course had to go missing after a wild night. Although, the film may seem to be continuing tradition from its predecessor, it tries so hard right from the beginning to be funny, something which the first did without much effort. Too hard in fact. Zach Galifianakis' character is evidently targeted by Phillips to be the one who provides most of the humour. The consequences of this however provides a lacklustre and second rate service that guarantees only but a few laughs. And while Bradley Cooper seemingly takes the role of leader of the 'wolfpack' his general input in the film is at a bare minimum.
While the first saw the development of the four characters joining together in friendship, this one seems to lack any depth within the development of characters and seems to sway towards focusing on Galifianakis' character which can at times be annoying.
Nonetheless, the film has a sense of appeal that will keep viewers watching throughout, but just lacks any real depth, originality or talk about moments to make this a memorable title. Though Leslie Chow (Kim Jeong)is a fun character and without him this would be a bit of a bore. I believe the film has an element of re-watch ability due to the wild and outrageous occurrences and I do not deny that the film can bring enjoyment to the audience.
In conclusion, while it provides an action packed ride with some unbelievable and imaginative scenes (dare I mention the drug dealing monkey?) the overall expectations that have entailed the first one have left this film feeling rushed and hollow in many ways without any true meaning other then being a shadow to its predecessor. I hope director Todd Phillips avoids making the same mistakes in this one, mistakes I believe are shown in the gross takings, severely less then the first one. Even though I point out many criticisms I still believe this film has an essence of enjoyability and I am sure I will at least watch this film one more time.