Grown Ups 2

Grown Ups 2 is a 2013 American comedy directed by Dennis Dugan, featuring a script co-written by Adam Sandler, Fred Wolf, and Tim Herlihy. This film is a sequel to the 2010 movie Grown Ups and follows the character Lenny Feder, played by Sandler, as he returns with his family to his hometown. The cast includes notable actors such as Kevin James, Chris Rock, David Spade, Salma Hayek, and Maya Rudolph, many of whom reprise their roles from the first film. New cast member Nick Swardson joins them in this comedic adventure.

In Grown Ups 2, Lenny moves his family back to Stanton, where he reconnects with his childhood friends. The film dives into their humorous misadventures and encounters with a local fraternity. The movie was produced by Happy Madison Productions and distributed by Sony Pictures through Columbia Pictures, premiering in theaters on 12 July 2013.

Despite a hefty budget of $80 million, the film received negative reviews from critics, earning only an 8% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes based on 116 reviews and a Metacritic score of just 19 out of 100. Critics labeled it as lacking depth and humor, with many calling it a disappointing follow-up. The consensus was that while it might entertain those who enjoy crude humor, it failed to engage a broader audience.

Upon its release, Grown Ups 2 grossed a total of $247 million worldwide, making it a financial success despite its poor critical reception. The film opened at number two in the U.S. box office, competing with Despicable Me 2 and earning $41.5 million during its first weekend.

The film's plot begins with Lenny encountering a deer in his bedroom, leading to chaos in his home. His friends face various challenges, such as a troubled marriage, parenting struggles, and an unexpected reunion with an old bully. The story unfolds with comedic antics as the group navigates their adult lives and rekindles their bonds through ludicrous escapades.

The film features a wide array of characters, including Lenny's supportive wife Roxanne, his friends Eric, Kurt, and Marcus, and their children. Each character deals with their own unique challenges, providing a blend of humor and heart. The film culminates in a chaotic party showdown with the fraternity, highlighting themes of friendship and community.

Although Grown Ups 2 faced harsh criticism, it has retained a following among some audiences for its lighthearted take on adult friendships and family dynamics. The movie showcases the comedic talents of its cast and serves as a reminder of the importance of laughter and connection in life.

This film is a testament to the enduring appeal of Adam Sandler and his ensemble cast, even if the critics were not on their side. While it may not have won any awards, it certainly provided a few laughs and a nostalgic look at childhood friendships.