The Oswegonian

The Independent Student Newspaper of Oswego State

DATE

Apr. 27, 2024 

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Film Laker Review

‘Murder Mystery 2’ travels to India, favors comedy over intellect

Rating: 4/5 stars

Nick (Adam Sandler, “Hustle”) and Audrey Spitz (Jennifer Aniston, “Dumplin’”) are once again back to being messy and solving crimes in the comedic “Murder Mystery 2.”

The couple embarks on a dangerously silly adventure as they attempt to help rescue their friend the Maharaja (Adeel Akhtar, “Enola Holmes 2”) after he had been kidnapped from his wedding. 

Unlike the title may suggest, this is not a film to watch if you want to get your brain working, yet it finds its charm in that irony. Which is why this film and its characters get a pass, clearly it is a film truly meant to just be a little silly. It is not necessary for every movie nowadays to be deep.

While the movie does have new and old characters, it follows the same basic storyline as its predecessor, which may make the reader feel as if they are watching the same movie, but just rebranded. Those who plan to watch may find themselves easily being able to detect twists and turns before they happen in the movie and may leave them feeling unsatisfied by the end of the watch. 

But not all is bad in this sequel, putting aside inconsistencies the movie still keeps its previous charm with its sometimes morbid comedic timing. Those who are looking to have an easy laugh will enjoy the simple moments between the Spitz couple as they fumble their way through ridiculously dangerous situations as new detectives.

Characters from the previous film such as the Colonel (John Kani, “Black Panther”) and Inspector Delacroix (Danny Boon, “Stuck Together”) also make a return appearance, although it can feel like their role in the previous movie was completely lost in this new film. Although this can be said for most of the returning characters, who also managed to not learn anything the first time around. 

Aniston and Sandler do bring light to this film with their unusual yet funny on film chemistry that can always make the audience laugh even if the joke has been repeated a hundred times. These two actors are a great duo when it comes to the portrayal of comedic couples. 

Overall, “Murder Mystery 2” is a fun and enjoyable film that is perfect for a lazy day with friends or family. It is not a particularly groundbreaking or thought-provoking movie, but it delivers on its promise of lighthearted entertainment and is sure to leave the audience laughing with its comedy.

Image from Netflix via YouTube