Personally, I can’t say that musical comedies would qualify as a favorite genre. Yet, the original Pitch Perfect was a very pleasant surprise. It featured an unusual premise and garnered plenty of laughs from poking fun at and embracing both Acapella singing and its unusual characters. As with any success story, a sequel has inevitably followed. Of course, Pitch Perfect 2 doesn’t reach the same giddy heights of the original. Still, there are enough chuckles (and a couple of big laughs) to earn it a minor recommendation.
Three years after their triumphant success at the Nationals, The Barden Bellas have fallen on hard times – a wardrobe malfunction during a performance for the US President leaves their reputation in taters. With their official status revoked and many of the original members nearing graduation, it appears as though the final note has been sung. However, one route to redemption remains. If they can win the World Acapella Singing Championships, their status will be reinstated.
In addition to the main plot, there’s a B-story involving Beca (Anna Kendrick) and her internship at a recording studio. Additionally, Fat Amy (Rebel Wilson) tussles with a romantic development. And a new member (Hailee Steinfeld) attempts to successfully integrate herself into the close-knit group.
The new predicaments are the freshest aspect of the film and result in the most laughs. While the odd group dynamic still results in some decent one-liners, many of the gags feel like retreads. Even the two off-color commentators (played by John Michael Higgins and director Elizabeth Banks) aren’t quite as funny this time out. Most of their comments try too hard to be politically incorrect. It comes across a bit forced and the characters don’t possess quite the same zing. Many of the supporting group members get lost in the shuffle as well, making little of an impression.
That isn’t to say that there aren’t some strong moments when the story attempts something new. An impromptu showdown between Acapella groups at the home of an eccentric millionaire/fan (David Cross) inspires one of the funniest scenes in the movie (with an unexpected team cameo). There’s also a surprising guest turn in the recording studio that features a singer attempting some Bing Crosby-esque crooning. Beca’s interactions with a short-tempered boss (Keegan-Michael Key) also add some conflict and humor. Finally, a grandly romantic gesture sung to a Pat Benetar song results in the movie’s giddiest moment of hilarity.
In truth, only about 50% of the jokes hit their mark this time out and there are a few scenes featuring dead air. However, the gags that do land result in some solid belly laughs. While nowhere near as effective as the original, enough of Pitch Perfect 2 works to make it a decent, if not exemplary, follow-up. The tone may be uneven, but it manages to carry an enjoyable enough tune to pass the time.