Synopsis:
This holiday season, the new chapter in Illumination’s animated franchise arrives with big dreams and hit songs as the ever-optimistic Buster Moon and his cast of performers prepare to launch their most dazzling stage extravaganza yet …all in the glittering entertainment capital of the world. There’s just one hitch: They first have to persuade the world’s most reclusive rock star—played by Academy Award® nominee and global music icon BONO, in his animated film debut—to join them.
Things aren’t always complicated. Sometimes they’re just difficult. However, difficult simply means that you have to focus more and work harder to achieve your goals and dreams. Also, the journey doesn’t have to be a solo one. It’s okay to have a support system to have your back in your time of need and hardship. In fact, asking for help is one of the best and most mature things you can do. But you don’t have to take my word for it, you’ll learn.
“Dream big dreams…”
While some things are better left unsaid, others make more sense when beautifully sung. Sing 2 is a melodic adventure of overcoming adversity. After audiences fell in love with Sing, fans couldn’t help but wonder if a sequel would follow. Well, after the driven koala, Buster Moon and his crew of bellowing beasts wowed us all, it was a matter of if it would happen but when. This go-around Buster is reaching for the stars as he wants to put on the greatest show anyone has ever seen and he’s taking his friends with him. He has the talent, the performers, the vision, but the one thing he needs to get the green light from the harsh wolf media mogul, Jimmy Crystal is a rock-star lion that no one has heard from in years. The story is simple and straightforward enough for children to understand but there are some nuances and subplots that adults can appreciate. The songs come from every genre, you’re bound to be caught singing in your seat. Unfortunately, some songs get the Vine treatment and only last for about six seconds. With its theme of perseverance, whether it’s difficult situations or loss, and it’s messaging of believing in yourself and confidence, this film has a lot to offer. It’s not entirely necessary to have seen the first film to enjoy this one, but like any other franchise, it makes the experience more enjoyable if you’ve seen them all. The animation is vibrant and a step up from the original, the score is great, and it’s a great film for the holidays. Overall, Sing 2 is nothing short of a fun time and it’s sure to be beloved as much as its predecessor is. Its rewatchability is high.
Pacing & Pop
The film starts fast and exciting and continues at that pace for the majority of the runtime. I actually think that it would’ve done the story some good to slow down in the second act while trying to convince Clay Calloway to come out of seclusion. What popped for me has to be the music. From old to new, Rock to Hip-hop, there are songs for every member of the family.
Characters & Chemistry
Starring: MATTHEW McCONAUGHEY, REESE WITHERSPOON, SCARLETT JOHANSSON, TARON EGERTON, BOBBY CANNAVALE, TORI KELLY, NICK KROLL, PHARRELL WILLIAMS, HALSEY, CHELSEA PERETTI, LETITIA WRIGHT, ERIC ANDRÉ, ADAM BUXTON, GARTH JENNINGS, PETER SERAFINOWICZ, JENNIFER SAUNDERS, NICK OFFERMAN, JULIA DAVIS, AND BONO
Look at this cast, how could it be bad? The answer is, it can’t. They all did amazing which makes it incredibly hard to pick a favorite. They were lively, funny, and at times, moving. While it’s difficult to choose a standout performance, the most entertaining character has to be Miss Crawly (Garth Jennings). She’s quirky, clumsy, a bit ridiculous, but overall she’s loyal. Lastly, the singing sounded amazing.
Sing 2 is now in theaters as of December 22, 2021. Stay safe and enjoy.
Director: Garth Jennings
Writer: Garth Jennings
Producers: Chris Meledandri, p.g.a., Janet Healy, p.g.a.
Executive Producer: Dana Krupinski
Rated: PG
Runtime: 1h 50m
Rating: 3.5 out of 5
Senior Critic. Observing the human race since 1988.
