Back to Barden, the Bellas, the Treblemakers and more!
We’re back to talk a cappella! That’s right, we return to Barden University to rejoin the Barden Bellas as they struggle to find their new sound, deal with being shut out of the ICCAs, and decide to compete at the World Finals. Producer Elizabeth Banks takes on the director’s role here with Kay Cannon back as the writer, so why does it feel so… rehashed? Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we continue our Pitch Perfect series with Banks’ 2015 film Pitch Perfect 2.
We have a lot of issues with this film – but still a lot of love for its a cappella performances
In the world of sequels, this film doesn’t do much to make it feel necessary. It’s largely a repeat of the first film. We talk about that and some of our struggles with their lack of imagination in where they take the story. They also seemed to have decided to crank everything that worked more or less in the last film to 11 in this film. We find that largely leaves most of it feeling very over-written. Plus, they take the racial comedy to levels that just feels inappropriate. We struggle quite a bit with what all of that does to characters and the overall journey Beca and the Bellas go on.
But it’s still about a cappella, so there’s a lot to love. We just wish the songs were as memorable here as they were in the first film.
It’s a rough ride after the first film. If you enjoy it really depends on how much you enjoy the a cappella performances. We’re a bit split there, but it still allows for a great conversation. Check it out then tune in. The Next Reel – when the movie ends, our conversation begins!
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