Lacking the feel of a bachelor party

Rating: 4/10 (30 May 2011)

The first Hangover set the standard. It was a legendary night of craziness that resonates with men who have participated in insane bachelor parties, or sets the tone for those who will. It captured the mentality, the feel, the utter spontaneity of a "last night out with your bachelor friend." It correctly understood that the bachelor party brings together people who meet for the first time - a combination of high school friends, college friends, brothers and cousins - who collaborate on a common quest to celebrate the end of single life for a special person.
That's what made the first Hangover special. For the most part, the sequel lacked that feel. There was less celebration and much more panic. And it really missed the opportunity to bring in an additional character to truly mix things up. The brother of the bride was hardly involved, but when he was, he was too meek, too geeky, and generally a pain to watch.
At times this movie felt too serious for a bachelor party celebration, and at others too repetitive. It was essentially the same recipe as the first, except it was set in Bangkok and with a couple of minor changes. Unlike the first installment, which provided a steady stream of comedy, this one sputters throughout, although it does have several laugh out loud moments.