Review of Zoolander 2 (2016) by Mark M — 06 May 2016

Given the bad reviews, I wasn't expecting much from Zoolander 2 (2016) so, for the most part, I enjoyed the return trip with Derek Zoolander and Hansel (he's so hot right now). Yes, the number of celebrity cameos is WAY over the top, the injection of new SNL alumni (Kristen Wiig, Fred Armisen as a weird man-child, and especially Kyle Mooney as Don Atari) works.

Benedict Cumberbatch is also a (brief) hoot as transsexual supermodel named All. Zoolander 2 doesn't have as many laughs as the original but there are still some silly, funny bits and even a few laugh out loud moments such as the priceless cutaway reactions to the 'sexy fighting' between Penelope Cruz and Milla Jovovich or Derek and Hansel's physical reaction to Cruz emoting about why she couldn't make the transition from swimsuit model to high fashion because of her, ah, assets.

The real wrong note in Zoolander 2 is Will Ferrell's return as Jacobim Mugatu. It seems like Ferrell completely forgot or couldn't be bothered to care about what made one of his most famous characters so funny in the first place.

This leads to a huge letdown, especially since the film builds (already invested) fan anticipation for the return of Mugatu. Ferrell fails to deliver in a big way so every scene he is in feels 'off', which is basically the last half-hour of the film.

Stiller, Wilson and everyone seem game for this venture but Ferrell comes across as nothing more than a 'paycheck' player. Mark's Grade: C.