REVIEW:

Hansel: OLD? Derek

Zoolander: [pronouncing the sign incorrectly] LAMÉ?

LAMÉ is right. But then again, what else would you expect from another zany Zoolander zinger? If you've seen the first one, you gotta expect the second one to be more of the same "stupid humor" that these characters are so good at. It's not that the humor is stupid, it's the deficient brain power of the main characters in this story that make it so much fun. In essence, it boils down to this, if you've seen and enjoyed the first Zoolander, you will enjoy this one. If you did not like the first one, don't bother at all. If you haven't seen the first one, well, you'd better be a fan of "stupid humor" if you're going to decide to see this one. In addition, it might help to see the first one first just so can feel more comfortable with the characters and this sequel, but it's not a requirement. So recap . . . zany, stupid humor, liked the first one then go, otherwise no, and Zoolander is back in the saddle again with his trusty sidekick Hansel.

The opening scenes in this flick are pretty good in establishing a proper foundation and overall mood. Those scenes also quickly establish the funniness and the stupidity, a.k.a. the stupid funny that the Zoolander franchise is so well known for. In this issue, we get elevated intensity as well as elevated stupidity. Along with this type of humor, another aspect of this film that is pretty special is the cast and cameos. It was great to see just about everybody from the first movie in this one, even if some were very small roles. All the big players are still here like Will Ferrell, Owen Wilson, even Billy Zane, and of course Ben Stiller who reprises his role as our beloved Zoolander as well as directs and co-writes the movie. We are also treated to some new members of the cast in this zany tale. Penelope Cruz does an excellent job of being hot, sensual, and just plain ol' amazing. At moments I will admit that she looked a little like a fish out of water, but it's Penelope Cruz so it's okay. The most impacting new addition was Kristen Wiig . . . yes ladies and gentlemen, that's Kristen Wiig. Quoting what my youngest son would say, "wait, what?!?" Exactly! What a look, what an accent, what a character, and what a performance by Kristen, you are just not going to believe it. The only thing that might surprise you more than Kristen in this movie are the abundance of cameos and who they are. I don't want to give anything away so I'll just say that it might blow your mind. Oops, I forgot to mention one other person who is listed in the cast. If Kristen will surprise you, Benedict Cumberbatch will shock you, and it's one of funniest scenes in the film.

The storyline for this film is about as nuts as the characters, and well, the cast itself too for that matter. If anyone were to pull it off, it's this bunch. It's far-fetched and off-the-wall but again, what else would you expect from a Zoolander movie? And it being based on the lives of male models and such, well, the music is pretty darn good too. Ben Stiller and the movie makers are taking a gamble with this one I think, considering that it's success will depend heavily on Zoolander fans. Ben has been a part of so many successful comedies in his career and I for one hope that this one does succeed because I believe this is one of his best characters. Stay good looking everyone.