While The Lego Movie 2 is no Godfather 2, it’s still a pretty darn good sequel!
The Lego Movie 2 played to the strengths of its’ predecessor and got rid of most of the weaknesses, which leaves an equally creative and brilliantly animated film. Mike Mitchell (Trolls, Sky High) takes over the directing reigns on this go around, but don’t worry, Lord and Miller still wrote and produced the film, so it is filled with their unique brand of comedy and action.
The Lego Movie 2 immediately follows the events of the first film, with the characters having to face a new enemy in the form of the “Sistar”. Quickly the state of affairs turns ugly for our characters Emmet, voiced by Chris Pratt (Avengers: Infinity War, Parks and Recreation), Wyldstyle AKA Lucy, voiced by Elizabeth Banks (Pitch Perfect, Wet Hot American Summer), and Batman, voiced by Will Arnett (Lego Batman, Arrested Development), with a time jump of 5 years leading them into an apocalyptic wasteland, similar to Mad Max: Fury Road. Emmet of course maintains his optimistic view on life that everything is awesome, which causes some friction in his relationship with Wyldstyle, who can’t seem to stop brooding about everything.
Suddenly, a new foe emerges, General Mayhem, voiced by Stephanie Beatriz (Brooklyn Nine-Nine, Ice Age: Collision Course) and kidnaps all of Emmet’s friends, sending him on a cosmic adventure to rescue them. When all seems lost, Emmet meets Rex Dangervest, also voiced by Chris Pratt, who embodies the kind of person Wyldstyle wants Emmet to be. Emmet and Rex race to the Sistar Galaxy to save their friends, who are caught up in a mysterious and malicious plot concocted by the nefarious Queen Watevra Wa’Nabi, voiced by Tiffany Haddish (Night School, Girls Trip).
With hilarious writing from Lord and Miller, fantastic direction from newcomer Mike Mitchell, and a terrific score from Mark Mothersbaugh, The Lego Movie 2 wildly exceeded my expectations and while it might not quite reach the success of its’ predecessor, I think it is just as good, if not for different reasons. The film can drag a little at times, but it is made up for in brilliant payoffs that are extremely unexpected, and it retains the heart and soul of the original. Fans of pop culture will not be disappointed as there are plenty of references and easter eggs to enjoy and Lord and Miller’s writing is edgy enough for adults to enjoy and is still appropriate for kids.