Unexpected sequel offers expected crude comedy

‘Hot Tub Time Machine 2’ movie review

By Alex Stanton, Staff Writer

3/5

I wouldn’t have thought we’d get a sequel to 2010’s sci-fi, dude comedy Hot Tub Time Machine, but if there was any comedy that was good enough to deserve a sequel, it was that one.

With its self-aware nature and hilarious, massive lapses in good taste, the original film set itself apart from its contemporaries and became a cult hit on video. If you intentionally saw Hot Tub Time Machine, you’re probably aware of the level your expectations should be set at, for both the original and the sequel.

There are several notable differences in the overall story compared to the first film, particularly the absence of Adam Yates (John Cusack), the serious one of the motley crew. However, it doesn’t appear that the movie would be any better or worse with his presence, even though he was the leading man in the first film.

Lou Dorchen (Rob Corddry), the jerk of the group, takes over as the leading man and Nick Webber (Craig Robinson) becomes a famous musician in this film. Lou’s son Jacob (Clark Duke) also returns for the sequel. As usual, all three men are very amusing to watch, although it’s glaringly obvious right from the beginning that Lou is in no way, shape, or form leading man material. The characters are all borderline impossible to like, with Lou once again going above and beyond to be the biggest jerk possible.

Joining the trio is Adam Yates Jr. (Adam Scott), who is different enough from his dad and likeable enough that his presence is welcome.

Another difference from the original is that this time the magical Jacuzzi takes the guys to the year 2025, instead of the 1980s setting of the last movie. Everyone from the first film is filthy rich in 2015, due to Lou deciding to stay in the ‘80s at the end of the last movie. During a party he throws at his house, he gets shot in the groin by an unknown individual, and the trio—with dying Lou in tow—hop into the hot tub hoping to go back in time and prevent his murder, but end up 10 years in the future. Jokes about self-driving cars and a 2025 that is very similar to our own time ensue.

Make no mistake: most comedy sequels are inferior to their predecessors, and Hot Tub Time Machine 2 follows this rule to a “T.” Though, unlike most of those sequels, fans of the first one—and of slapstick, crass comedy—will find this to be an acceptable, sometimes hilarious session in the hot tub.