Have just been to seen the long anticipated sequel to Anchorman. My opinions are mixed. The film brings together our favourites, Ron Burgundy (Ferrell), Brick Tamland (Carell), Brian Fantana (Rudd) & Champ Kind (Koechner) as the comedy unfolds around their reuniting as a news team to take on the challenges of a new national 24 hour news channel. The boys are on top form and come back to glory having gone off in their different, and bizarre ways since the last instalment.
Possibly the most enjoyable moments in the first parts of the film are Brick Tamlands hilarious interjections to completely unrelated conversations. Having said that from the off set it is apparent that Anchorman 2 is about to fall into the trap of going too far with the comedy and obscure situations in an aim to equal or better the original film.
Although funny throughout I felt somewhat uncomfortable with some of comedy. I don't mind pushing boundaries but repeatedly falling back on interracial wise cracks and mocking disability became a bit unfunny.
The film has some saving qualities, the introduction of Ron's son turns this film into a journey for Ron and looks at family values. It also shows the start of some now key features in American and worldwide news that we know and love today, even if they do come out of far-fetched situations.
The film has attracted some big name cameos, Kristen Wiig, James Marsden, Greg Kinnear, Will Smith, Jim Carrey. These comedy stars make me feel bad for uttering the words "average", but I am sure anyone who loved Anchorman will see this and make their own mind up. A bit predictable as indicated by the title: the legend continues. It continues but I don't feel it moves forward.
Worth a watch for a few laughs and to revisit the characters we have come to love but just as you should never meet your idols, I would be wary with your expectations on sequels.
And Baxter is still as cute.
*** / *****
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