Review of Hamlet 2 (2008) by Christopher D — 31 May 2009

Dana Marschz doesn't understand why "Hamlet One" has to end on "such a downer." And so sparks his desire to write a sequel which "takes the tragedy out of a tragedy" and subsequently deals with his troubled paternal relationship. Steve Coogan expertly brings Marschz to life in this irreverent, and hilariously original comedy that makes us wonder just how far free speech can be stretched, and shows us just how inspiring the creation of art can be.

While many people may not "get" the style of comedy so wonderfully employed in this film, it doesn't bog itself down with trying to apologize for its unique take. The film zips along with joke after joke that to those who appreciate it can be uncompromisingly hilarious, and to those who don't can be a complete waste of time. The movie doesn't try to be overt, instead, it tries to be what it is and succeeds remarkably well to that degree. Certain moments help the film reach its status as the finest comedy of 2008 (which there is no doubt in my mind it is) such as the subtle mispronunciations of Marschz's name which occur frequently ("Marks," and "Marajka" come to mind).

"Mr. Holland's Opus" and "Dead Poet's Society" this film is not, though it makes frequent allusions to those two. But nevertheless you feel that Steve Coogan's character is a creature of the same mold, hoping to shape young minds... he's just not too sure how to do it. At times he is irreverent, at times overly dramatic, sarcastic at all the wrong times, and completely unsure of how to communicate with these "gang bangers." Yet you never feel like he doesn't care - he is afraid, oh yes, but he cares a great deal, and we never question it.

Coogan doesn't carry the weight himself of course, and a stunning cast of supporting characters propels the film with vigor. Octavio is a tough talking "alpha male" but he's secretly destined to attend Brown, and his parents are a renowned author and painter. Epiphany is the young starlet who's world collapses when outsiders invade her favorite class. And Rand is a sexually confused teacher's pet who can't help but subconsciously throw his homosexuality to the forefront.

The film culminates with the spectacular exposition of "Hamlet 2" itself, and I won't mention anything about that - you'd have to see it to believe it anyway. But what I will say is this: while almost anyone else would pick "Tropic Thunder" as last years comedy of choice, I say that anyone who is willing to think through their comedies may pick this one instead. It was the little comedy that could, and its silent victory is one of those underdog stories of cinema that may not be noticed for decades.