Gary K’s review published on Letterboxd:
Film 5/31 - Second entry in a franchise
“Magnum XL is the Tiffany box of condoms”
At first I wasn’t quite sure how to classify this (a 2nd in a franchise or film of 2020 or bonus) but when I saw McG in an interview talking about how this is planned as a trilogy, I felt safe leaving this classified as is.
While I know McG is divisive and this film is likely no exception, I really enjoyed this simple and endearing horror comedy. The actors are all compelling and charming, the needle drops aren’t the most left of center, but damn if they aren’t effective. I particularly enjoyed the Tangerine Dream cues from Risky Business during the more romantic scenes.
McG knows how to frame pretty shots and has a unique kinetic editing style that propelled the story forward. This is gorier than the original and a ton of fun. By the end I was thoroughly invested in our two leads and their relationship. Samara Weaving makes an extended cameo and Emily Alyn Lind shines as the new lead villain but Jenny Ortega just owns this.
Not sure where they will go with the final chapter. Maybe Cole or Phoebe will be a babysitter and their charge will actually be in a new preteen blood cult. That could be fun except for the violence on kids it would necessitate. I’m down though.
