The Hangover Part II (2011)

I am a HUGE, HUGE Zach Galifianakis fan. HUGE. After doing stand-up in LA at the Upright Citizens Brigade, I adore all things Zacky poo - from his skinny stand-up days to his fat wanna-be Jack Black current persona, he rocks. HOWEVER, does the spin-off to 'The Hangover' compare to its first amazing 'Wedding Crasher'-type film comparison?! Sadly, no. Its a slightly funny - definitely R RATED flick with some surprise moments BUT its almost frame for frame replica-style as an exact copy of the original doesn't work. Short on time or short on material, one can only guess what producers where thinking (or not thinking) but this remake is unfortunately not holding up to the original. Using the same plot (but different 'out-of-nowhere location ie Bangkok'?!), and similar characters minus two important roles the FABULOUS Heather Graham and Rachael Harris (the actress that played Stu's wife) - just doesn't have the same 'HAVE YOU SEEN THE 'THE HANGOVER' YET??!!!' momentum. Without some hilariously crazy women, this version lacked some...relationship spunk. Also, copying a plot and scenes in what seemed like a lazy and uninspired manner really hindered the comedy aspect. There's a good laugh here and there but nothing that memorable. I give this one a 2 out of 5 - Sorry, Zack but I still love you, my little poo, poo.

Theater: A small theater on Holiday in Whippany, NJ.

Bridesmaids (2011)

As a future member of SNL (big smurk), I just adore Kristen Wiig and Maya Rudolph! They are both so spot-on in their humor and body language - and lets not forget, their dancing!!! This film is ready for its chic-lit audience to dance, drink (legal in theaters?) and have a FAB-U-LOUS time! Similar to the brother flick, "The Hangover" these ladies know how to have a blast of a time but in louboutin heels (Rose Byrne's gorgeous character) and "OH-so-short" dresses (Ms. Wiig). I really enjoyed the realistic plot and Ms. Wiig's very real character as not all big budget films have to be fantasy driven. She's a hard working gal going through hard times...does she make it through? We sure hope so! With the help of friends, new and old, this film is just in time for a wintry-like summer in NYC, along with our roller coaster of an economy everywhere. Grab your crazy, unstable lady friends, or your best gay and go have some laughs! Definitely check out this entertaining, stylish (for) Chi-town based film. 4 out of 5 stars.


Theater: Clearview Cinemas, Upper East Side, NYC

PS
Big points for a seemingly less product placement-like of a movie!