Review of Zoolander 2 (2016) by Dano M — 15 Feb 2016

This is a very stretched and generous 4 stars rating. A bonus mark for the balls it took to make a sequel and arguably the best end credits I've ever seen.

Overall, I have to say that this wasn't as much of a failure as other unnecessary franchise sequels. However, it did make the same error as every other overdue and overanticipated sequel - too many parallels with the original film on expense of introducing new stuff. Yes, some things needed to s brought back. Characters like Mugatu and his gang and perhaps Billy Zane. The reason why Zoolander was originally so successful is silly humor, clever satire and unexpected celebrity cameos playing themselves. Like many sequels, instead of coming up with new ideas, the director brought back all the strong points and overkilled them. A lot of cameos felt forced and absolutely unnecessary. I mean, come on, Katy Perry? That was useless and made me think of how the Scary Movie franchise was destroyed. When the line between "unlikely, yet possible" and "that just doesn't make any sense at all" is crossed, the movies drop rating very rapidly. Zoolander 2 has managed to do that a few times. Hence, the ratings.

However, me, being the Zoolander fan that I am, still could appreciate some cool satire implemented in this film, as well as the unforgettable performance by Kristen Wiig who has totally stole the show for me. If only, the production could concentrate more on new ideas and not their recycling. Unfortunately, for a movie that most of the world has anticipated for over a decade, this was weak and the visuals were even worse than weak.

Somehow, I still enjoyed it for the most part.

Oh, and someone please beat that annoying kid playing Derek Jr.