My Big Fat Greek Wedding 2 Review by Ashley Menzel
Was this as much of a joy to watch as the first or an unnecessary cash grab?
My Big Fat Greek Wedding was a hit among all ages. I remember sitting and watching it with my mom and she loved it. Everyone I’ve talked to has seen the first one multiple times and is a well-loved and quoted film. How does the second installment stand up? Well, it doesn’t. It falls flat. Real flat.
The story is basically the same as the first film where there are events in someone’s life and the big fat greek family is far too involved in it. Some young woman is fighting for her freedom from her family’s opinions and judgement. All the same characters are back with the addition of the daughter, Paris (Elena Kampouris) and her “friend” Bennett (Alex Wolff). Paris is torn between wanting to go far away from Chicago for school and her family pulling at her to stay home. Meanwhile, Toula is being pulled in every direction to help her family as well. After the big family secret is revealed that Maria and Gus actually were not ever married, the family is scrambling to help put together a real wedding for them.
That’s really all there is to the story. It is pretty simple and there are random other little side stories that are thrown in that really seem that way, just thrown in. The characters are still funny and enjoyable to watch. The majority of the film is spent on the relationship between Gus and Maria, which was a relief. I was so worried we would get a movie filled with teenage angst and far too much eyeliner. All the characters are pretty likable, with the exception of Paris. I found her to be over the top and irritating for most of the film.
The writing in the film is similar to the first. It feels like the same movie just rehashed with teenage daughter jokes thrown into it. Unfortunately, the film doesn’t really distinguish itself enough to be called a worthwhile sequel. I have the general feeling that it was alright, but would’ve been just as good as a TV movie or a straight to DVD/ Digital release. It is a harmless film to enjoy, especially if you are a fan of the first one, but it isn’t nearly as endearing or funny. I would wait for a DVD release.
Rating 6/10
