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A Reel Life film section
Issue: Summer 2015-6
My Big Fat Greek Wedding 2 (2016) movie review
Bigger is Better
See also:
My Big Fat Greek Wedding review, I Hate Valentine's Day review, My Life in Ruins
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Movie poster, My Big Fat Greek Wedding 2
People change. Greeks don't.
The film reveals a Portokalos family secret that will bring the beloved characters back together for an even bigger and Greeker wedding.
It's time to revisit the Greekest family on the big screen. Once again Nia Vardalos writes about a big, loud, hungry, in-your-face, in-your-business Greek family living in Chicago.
Toula (Vardalos) and Ian (John Corbett) live next door to Toula's parents (John Constantine and Lainie Kazan), as they did at the end of the previous film. Their daughter is now 17 years old and about to go off to college. For Toula, back at the restaurant, life is all about fixing her family's problems, and coping with an on-coming empty nest.
John Corbett and Nia Vardalos in My Big Fat Greek Wedding 2 (c) 2016 Universal Pictures
Actor/scriptwriter Vardalos, who wasn't so successful directing herself in I Hate Valentine's Day, wisely leaves the direction to Kirk Jones. Her performance as the Greek ugly duckling who became a swan, made her own choices, and found love was endearing in the original film.
In this sequel, she has worn down a little. Vardalos is still believable and we want Toula and Ian to rediscover contentment and romance.
Meanwhile, the ensemble cast have a chance to shine as they play their iconic roles. Everyone returns, even the eccentric grandmother. Kudos especially to Andrea Martin as the sexy Aunt Voula who is the family's romance whisperer.
Aunt Voula (Andrea Martin) gives Toula (Nia Vardalos) some advice about sex in My Big Fat Greek Wedding (c) 2016 Universal Pictures
MBFGW 1 was at its core a romantic comedy set in the midst of a large Greek-American family. MBFGW 2 has Toula at its heart, but it is about rediscovering love (and romance). It is more about family than romantic love.
As surely as Windex cures all, this film is a fun, heart-felt comedy. It portrays quirks without being mean. Vardalos writes the characters with obvious affection for them. Don't be afraid of sequel-itis. This is as satisfying as the original. Take the family - any sexual references are very mild.
Recommended.
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by Ali Kayn |
Just the facts:Title: My Big Fat Greek Wedding 2 (2016) The Players: John Corbett, Nia Vardalos, John Stamos, Rita Wilson, Elena Kampouris, John Constantine, Lainie Kazan, Andrea Martin Official website: http://www.mybigfatgreekwedding2.com.au IMDb entry For session times of current films, use the cinema listings on the Movie links page. For scheduled release dates, see the coming attractions section. For more information about this movie, check out the internet movie database (IMDb). |
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Published in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia 
Filed: 01-Feb-2016