Murder Mystery 2

Murder Mystery 2

Was my assessment of 2019's "Murder Mystery" too critical, or do I simply have a newfound appreciation for Adam Sandler? Both are likely true, highlighting the role timing and real-world circumstances play in comedy. After a series of lackluster comedies from Sandler's initial Netflix deal, I gave this comedy thriller a modest two-star rating. However, it deserves an additional half-star as a solid diversion. The change in my viewpoint could be attributed to the positive reception of projects like "Uncut Gems," "Hustle," and even the relatively enjoyable "Hubie Halloween." Alternatively, I was in a worse mood four years ago.

Whatever the reason, "Murder Mystery 2" accomplishes its goal like its predecessor. Once again, Sandler's charm remains its strength. Once again, the brief runtime (a mere 90 minutes) avoids the aimless non-jokes that bog down the weakest Happy Madison films. And once again, it offers a simple means of escaping the real world for the duration of the feature. We may need that more in the 2020s than we did pre-pandemic. It's a mystery.

Sandler reprises his role as Nick Spitz, a former NYC police officer who, together with his wife Audrey (Jennifer Aniston), has transitioned from traditional law enforcement to becoming crime solvers for hire. After the original film's chaotic events, they struggle to make their new career path work. The real action of "Murder Mystery 2" kicks off when the Maharajah from the first film (Adeel Akhtar) invites them to a lavish wedding in a tropical location. Once again, Audrey and Nick find themselves as outsiders in a foreign land, leading to a mix of 'Ugly American' humor and class-based comedic elements. In both films, they encounter people who effortlessly throw around vast sums of money, emphasizing the stark contrast between their financial struggles and the world of wealth and privilege. Aniston and Sandler adeptly convey this dynamic without resorting to cheap humor.

The Maharajah's grand wedding is complete with group dancing and an elephant entrance. However, the situation turns dark when the groom's bodyguard is discovered brutally slain with a cheese knife, serving as a deliberate diversion to execute the kidnapping of the Maharajah. The film introduces a group of suspects, including the bride Claudette (Melanie Laurent), an ex-girlfriend named Countess Sekou (Jodie Turner-Smith), the sister Saira (Kuhoo Verma), business partner Francisco (Enrique Arce), and ace negotiator Miller (Mark Strong). However, the mystery element merely serves as a vehicle to propel the plot from one comedic set piece to another. Before they know it, the Spitzes find themselves racing through the streets of Paris with ransom money and hanging from the Eiffel Tower.

Aniston's role in "Murder Mystery 2" feels more like she's along for the ride than ever before, as she's not given sufficient material to showcase her comedic talent fully. Nevertheless, her easy chemistry with Sandler is undeniable. With years of shared acting experience under their belts, their rapport feels natural and essential for a film of this nature. In a movie like "Murder Mystery 2," we should never question whether the leads even like each other, and that certainty remains intact. While the characters lack depth due to the breakneck pace of the kidnapping plot, Aniston and Sandler rely on their familiarity as performers to do their dynamic work. The supporting cast understands their roles well, making an impact when necessary without distracting from the film's momentum (I'm looking at you, Schneider).

Director Jeremy Garelick guides the film along its path without excelling in the action department. Particularly, a fight scene in a speeding van feels clumsy regarding choreography. Nevertheless, there's something to be said about the efficiency of this venture, especially in an era where feature films and television often suffer from excessive bloat. "Murder Mystery 2" aims to provide disposable entertainment for 90 minutes, accomplishing that goal. By the time they release a third installment, I may even find myself liking it more.