Sunday, April 17, 2011

MOVIE REVIEW … DIARY OF A WIMPY KID: RODRICK RULES

 

diary-of-a-wimpy-kid-rodrick-rules-movie-poster-2011-1020689680 An actor once bemoaned on the set of a rushed sequel that they ‘wheel them in and wheel them out’.  This phrase would aptly describe Wimpy Kid’s second outing as it arrives a mere six months after the first appeared.  Poorly scripted, badly directed and missing much of the original’s charm it’s a classic example of putting the cart before the horse.  Based on Jeff Kinney’s popular children’s book series, Wimpy Kid 2 does not do it justice.  Bereft of the life and style making the first so enchanting, this sequel finds the ‘kiddie flick’ genre reach its creative nadir.

Greg Heffley (Zachary Gordon) is still having trouble at school. Wanting to impress new class-mate Holly (Peyton R. List), his efforts are continually thwarted by his older brother Rodrick (Devon Bostick).  Displaying the opposite to brotherly love on a daily basis, their bickering leaves their parents determined they get along.  Forced to endure each other’s company some surprising results occur which enables Greg to see his crazy world differently.

One has to feel really sorry for the actors.  Tied to what would be a multi-picture contract, they’re forced to participate in any sequels regardless of quality.  Like so many recent follow-ups, Wimpy Kid 2 mostly discards its predecessor’s fine qualities in favour of outlandish situations and forced humour.  Whilst the first had some silly moments, its authentic nature allowed those to be forgiven as the character’s quirky natures won viewers over.  Oddly most of these characters are sidelined for a somewhat tedious brotherly battle raising little mirth.

It’s frustrating watching as it could have been much better.  Plot strands are introduced then forgotten about with the narrative constantly scrambling for focus.  Although children’s films can hardly be likened to War and Peace, it’s nice seeing some effort made in producing a good script.  But with such a rushed production this isn’t possible. The actors are left to sink or swim on their merits.  Hopefully the next outing will return back to the school setting which allowed for more believable and creative situations.

No doubt Wimpy Kid’s third film is being made as we speak, although it would be beneficial if they spent time on writing a good story.  This sequel is below par in almost every respect compared to the first with only undemanding audiences potentially gaining something from this shambolic cash-in.

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Movie Review Rating 4 / 10

Movie Review by Patrick Moore

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