Review of Paul Blart: Mall Cop 2 (2015) by Johnny T — 28 Jun 2015

You won't find much offensive in Kevin James's slick, innocuous vehicle Paul Blart: Mall Cop 2. You won't find much prompting an emotional reaction in general, so familiar are the jokes and situations. To his credit, director Andy Fickman ("The Game Plan," "Parental Guidance") keeps the inanity moving apace and there are a few chuckles to be had courtesy of the supporting cast. But, as is so often the case with big, star-driven studio laffers, "Cop 2" needed several more spins in the comedy punch-up machine before cameras rolled. In the past, James at least had likability on his side. He was a big, lumbering oaf, the ideal drinking buddy. But there's an arrogance to the way he treats people here, particularly a gorgeous hotel employee he's convinced is in love with him, that renders him strangely unsympathetic. Sequels are cynical by nature, but this one, with its casino product placement ad and director Andy Fickman apparently checking his text messages instead of trying to punch the limp gags into shape, is purely a paycheck. James may not deserve better, but the kids they're pitching this to do. Is it never funny? No, it's not never funny. It's just not funny nearly often enough. Far from the worst movie that you'll ever see, but you might leave wondering why you, the people on the screen, or anyone else in the theater even bothered.

VERDICT: "Not So Hot" - [Negative Reaction] These films are truly terrible films. They are not the worst things ever made, but they are definitely awful and should not be seen by anyone. (Films that are rated 1.5 or 2 stars).