Review of Rio 2 (2014) by Duncan P — 16 Oct 2016

Fun, if a bit flawed. The major thing I can say for it is, at least, that the plot of the first is not exactly recycled as such, though a version of it comes up with a twist. The animation was again spectacular, especially in the musical sequences. Plus, there were some good gags, and set pieces, and a relevant environmental message. Overall, it was a hoot that I enjoyed.

As I said, however, it was not without problems. For starters, none of the songs were really as memorable than those of the first film (I distinctly recalled "Hot Wings" from the first clearly after watching the film), and the plot has some issues. It seems to try to do so much that, in the end, a lot of the side characters don't get nearly enough screen time, and subplots came up and then seemed to be forgotten 10 minutes later (most noticeably the plot line involving Roberto and Jewel, and the one dealing with the rivalry with the scarlet macaws). Not film-ruining, perhaps, but it still could have done with a bit of a cut-down on the initial build-up, or an extra half hour or so to let everything breathe and resolve better.

Ultimately, I did enjoy it a lot, but at the same time, I can't see myself recommending it as readily as the original. It's not as bad or unnecessary as some sequels end up being, at least, and if you can overlook the fact that it's not perfect, either as a film or as a sequel to Rio, then you'll no doubt find it enjoyable.