Review of Neighbors 2: Sorority Rising (2016) by Amy-Lauren B — 09 Aug 2016

Mac (Rogen) and Kelly Radner (Bryne) are in the process of moving to a new house, making room for their second baby and their growing toddler Stella. Life in the neighbourhood has been quiet since the frat next door moved out, so the 30 day escrow period should be a breeze. That is until a sorority moves in to the vacant property next door, and the all too familiar escapades of college students begin again. Fearing the new owners will back out, they must seek the help of their once enemy and ex-neighbor Teddy (Efron) to reclaim their territory and get the girls evicted. As you can imagine, it won't be simple. These girls fight dirty, making the previous frat brother's look like child's play.

As will be obvious for anyone who's seen the first Bad Neighbors, Neighbors 2: Sorority Rising is a young and dumb comedy. It's the type of movie I like to watch when I just want to laugh at something stupid with a group of friends over a few drinks. The gags range from slapstick body comedy (the car airbags make a welcomed return), to stoner and situational humour. It fits in the cannon of self-conspicuous comedy sequels that have been popular lately - the likes of 22 Jump Street, which I'd say is a better series. They acknowledge that it's the same story as last time, but this time it's girls causing havoc instead. It's not making any great strides for the genre, and its not highly originality, but I laughed pretty consistently throughout, in a silly kind of way not taking myself or the film too seriously.

It also has a refreshing female empowerment element, and there's very much a thread of feminism throughout the film. The sorority of Kappa Nu is an independent sisterhood, created as a means of rectifying the many dated and sexist rules of the existing college system. Basically, sororities are not allowed to throw parties. While their main motivation is shallow, there's actually a deeper incentive underneath. They promote a sense of freedom from restraints, to be accepting of yourself and those around you, community and true friendship.

Neighbors 2: Sorority Rising is a faithful sequel in comedic style, narrative, and spirit. Beneath the bravado and pot jokes, is a message of female empowerment and self-acceptance, that's relevant to all people, not just college students. If you're looking for something fun and silly with good intentions, it's a good bet.