Review of Magic Mike XXL (2015) by Junelkean — 02 Jul 2017

After three years of retirement from strip dancing, Mike (Tatum) misses his former job and the crew he worked with, so when an opportunity comes along his way to perform one last time with the Kings of Tampa, he grabs it and proves that there is still magic in his Mike.

So, did it exceed its expectations? As for fan of its predecessor, yes. But as an ordinary moviegoer, it is surprisingly not what you have been expecting for. It does not only tell the story of Mike and his team in front of the stage, but also deals with the viewpoints and camaraderie in overcoming their problems in life.

Gregory Jacobs has a passion in reaching out and doing things different than its prequel by pulling off some emotional moments, which works and delivers often. Also, for quite some times, it feels that it lacks in sense of urgency due to slow-paced parts and plotless story.

VERDICT: Magic Mike XXL is indeed magic for its target audience, but ordinary moviegoers would still enjoy it despite of some flaws.