'Daddy's Home 2' Review

Hayden's Overall Grade: B-

Daddy's Home 2 comes on the heels of the 2015 original Daddy's Home. That film received mixed praise but the main spotlight went to Mark Wahlberg and Will Ferrell's comedic timing. As co-Dads, the original father Dusty (Wahlberg) and stepdad Brad (Ferrell) showcased great heart in comedically trying to out do the other. In this hilarious sequel, it seems like they have found the great groove that they showcased in the first film. As these co-Dads work together to throw their kids a great Christmas together, a wrinkle is added in when both of their fathers arrive to spread the holiday joy.

Wahlberg and Ferrell really shine when they are playing these roles. Both their characters feel like an amplified version of the actors actual selves. It was great to see that the chemistry that worked so well on the first film returned tenfold for this next chapter. Mark Wahlberg is at his best when he plays the tough guy that shows signs of his true sensitive nature. Much like the first film, he brings that sense of bravado while still learning to be that caring father. He lets you get inside the outer layer and makes you realize how much he really cares about his kids. Will Ferrell also gives a memorable performance as the over-sensitive stepdad. Ferrell really plays this role to a tee and makes you fall in love with all is crazy incidents. Much like movies like Elf and Old School, he is at his comedic best when he plays the clueless, goofy but loveable character. They are clearly the main attractions, but this film also brought in two great actors to play their patriarchs.

Both John Lithgow (as Ferrell's father) and Mel Gibson (as Wahlberg's father) brought a believability that their characters actually raised the over-sensitive Brad and the hard-as-nails Dusty. John Lithgow has a stellar performance as Pop-Pop and really brings the love and caring spirit to the part. As for Gibson, he makes you care about his character to the point when you believe he will change his ways but always finds a way to avoid his feelings. Gibson played this part so perfectly and really has the audience in the palm of his hand the entire film.

The rest of the cast all get moments to shine. Pro-wrestler John Cena brings intensity as the father to Wahlberg's new step-daughter. The moms get their own subplot angle and give it a heartfelt conclusion. Also, much like the first film, the kids really steal the show and make you laugh at almost all their lines. They take some of the kids antics to new levels and really hover around the line of what is appropriate for kids to do. The kids show just how talented they are at such a young age and show great improvement from the first film. They really show great poise sharing scenes with all of these amazing actors.

This film has a great story flow as it bounces from one zany holiday activity to another one. The one concern I will say is that the film uses a lot of vulgar humor to get its laughs. Many of the funniest moments in the movie involve the three kids but they all contain sensitive antics. If they are not shooting out curse words like it's in fashion, they are being tempted by the curious pleasure of alcohol. They even have a scene that centers around children learning to fire a gun. All of these scenes, while taken to an extremely hilarious way, may be inappropriate for some parents. The movie makes these scenes comfortable for the pallet and doesn't force feed the audience these acts for no reason.

Overall, this film did what it was always meant to do. It was a fun film with over-the-top antics and crazy damage caused. It offends you at times but it also gives you the classic warm family feeling that the holidays bring. It ends up giving you a great feeling as you leave the theater and lets you enjoy the holidays with this crazy, mixed-up family. This movie is never going to win any awards but if you enjoy comedic stunts and heartfelt speeches, then this is what will get you in the Christmas spirit.

Recommendation: Go see it for holiday fun and great laughs.