More of the same but just as fresh

Rating: 8/10 (26 May 2011)

The Hangover (Part 1) was a great film - the pacing was excellent, it was a new and refreshing idea executed brilliantly. It stands up on repeat viewings and still surprises with how funny it is.
Now we have Part 2, the set up sounds the same; one of the guys is getting married, they (reluctantly) have a bachelor party end up getting wasted and wake up with no recollection of the night before and a member of the gang missing. Cue surprises as they unravel the mystery. Throughout the pre-hungover set up, I'll admit I was worried. There are many nudges and winks to the original that are genuinely funny but thankfully the writers stop making homage and the originality begins.
I won't ruin any of the surprises as the mysteries set up are excellent and caught the entire theater by surprise every time. Be warned that part 2 follows the formula of the first but never feels old.
Bradley Cooper largely takes a backseat as this is Ed Helms' show. Sure Zach Galafianakis has the bulk of the comedy and is on form as Alan throughout the entire film but Helms grounds the film with his descent into insanity with everything Bangkok throws at him, balancing Alan's childlike naivety and Cooper's straight(er) man perfectly.
The cinematography, soundtrack, writing and direction are all fantastic the whole way through, showing the squalor and seedy side of Bangkok in a classy and energetic way.
The verdict is go see this film. After watching it I honestly cannot decide whether Hangover 1 or 2 is better. surely that's the sign of a good sequel. Sure Part 1 is fresh and original but Part 2 takes the formula and ramps it up as far as it will go. Enjoy the surprises and go along for a crazy ride.