I loved 2014’s The Lego Movie, I found it to be fresh, original, extremely charming, funny and entertaining. So, naturally, I was very excited for the follow-up, and although it’s not as good as it’s predecessor, The Lego Movie 2 is a worthy sequel that is fun for all the family.
Picking up exactly from where the first film left off, the Duplo invasion (Yes, I know without context this probably sounds ridiculous) has turned Bricksburg into a post-apocalyptic wasteland, leaving all the residents battle-hardened and fighting for survival. It’s a clear parody of Mad Max, which makes Emmet’s (Chris Pratt) naivety and upbeat demeanor all the funnier. Eventually, events lead to the rest of the gang being kidnapped and taken to the “Systar System”, and Emmet must embark on a solo mission to save them.
I don’t want to go into much more detail, because I think it’s best to go into this film relatively unspoiled. But I must commend this film for its clever screenplay, it’s often self-deprecating and the film knows how ridiculous it is and takes full advantage of it. Chris Pratt gets to portray another character, called Rex Dangervest, who is literally a parody of Pratt’s real-life career. It’s bonkers, but it works, and it’s brilliant. But the main praise I have for this film is how it feels like a natural sequel to the first, it doesn’t feel forced and it takes many of the themes of The Lego Movie and expands on them further. It’s a touching tribute to the imagination one has during childhood, something which I think we all will be able to relate to. The animation is brilliant again, there’s more unexpected cameos, and there are some brilliantly funny songs that could rival “Everything is Awesome.” One in particular called “Catchy Song” which, unsurprisingly, is incredibly catchy.
The reason this film isn’t as good as its predecessor is mainly down to originality, but that was a near impossible task which is why I appreciate the route that was taken with this film. In theory, you could watch both films back-to-back and treat them as one cohesive story. The Lego Movie 2 doesn’t bring anything new to the franchise, it does feel more like an expansion of what is already in place. There are also some moments of comedy that don’t land as well as they could do, making certain aspects feel a bit awkward when nobody is laughing at something clearly intended for laughs. But, this is a minor thing and it doesn’t happen too often.
Overall though, it’s rather simple, if you enjoyed The Lego Movie then you’re going to enjoy The Lego Movie 2. If you didn’t enjoy The Lego Movie, then there is nothing here that is going to change your mind and you’re undoubtedly not going to enjoy this one either. As someone who adores the first film, I found this to be a solid sequel, with a strong story that doesn’t detract from the original, but does well to expand on it and it provides some truly moving moments, much like the ones we saw in the first film. This film takes full advantage of its all-star cast and it isn’t afraid to get ridiculous. Everyone involved in this production knows exactly what this film is, and being able to mock it themselves is part of the charm that is rather unique to this franchise. This is just a great, family film which is suitable for all ages.
I give The Lego Movie 2: The Second Part a 7.5/10.
Wado Reviews 