A few of the boys are back for another time traveling adventure.
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| "Ok. Things just got really uncomfortable." |
From the first word of a sequel to Hot Tub Time Machine and the news that John Cusack would not be returning, audiences were fearful of a total mess. In all honesty, Hot Tub Time Machine 2 does just fine without Cusack and allows the other three to turn in a big dumb ninety minutes of comedic absurdity. This sequel may not be as good as the first, but it's not as terrible as it could have been. With an idiotic plot and a comfortably uproarious comic trio, this part two is mindless entertainment topped off with a silly message about friendship and loyalty. And it's good.
Armed with an arsenal of adult oriented jokes, Hot Tub Time Machine 2 never lets up. The film is an all out assault on every man's inner potty mouthed child. From heads exploding to semen covered faces to uncomfortable man on man action, this sequel is relentless. Without perfect timing and the brotherly chemistry of the three leads, it could have been uncomfortable and possibly annoying. However, with the perfectly paced balance between Corddry, Robinson, Duke, and franchise newcomer Adam Scott, it all adds up to a strange and refreshing mix that makes this dude wonder when the next sequel will be.
Hot Tub Time Machine 2 does exactly what a good sequel should do. It doesn't try to recreate the story from its predecessor. It moves forward, taking the characters into unfamiliar territory with a whole new plot that happens to involve that same old hot tub of time jumping fun. There are numerous elements about the movie that play as satire on common sci-fi and futuristic themes while also taking little jabs at genre films and other comedies alike.
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| "Wait. What? Cusack is too good for a sequel? Ahh okay. |
The three main characters never stop delivering verbally abusive attacks, vile sexual acts, and line after line of perfectly written dialogue that made the testosterone filled fifteen year old inside me stand up and cry. If you're looking for a movie that will help you escape the daily grind without having to think too much, Hot Tub Time Machine 2 is a perfect fit. Set your fears aside because this part two actually delivers the goods.
-CG