Bad Santa 2 (2016) Movie Review
Introduction
“Bad Santa 2” (2016) is a black comedy film directed by Mark Waters, serving as a sequel to the cult classic “Bad Santa” (2003). Starring Billy Bob Thornton, Tony Cox, and Brett Kelly, the film brings back the irreverent, foul-mouthed, and deeply flawed characters that made the original a hit. With new cast members Kathy Bates and Christina Hendricks, “Bad Santa 2” attempts to recapture the crude humor and dark charm of its predecessor.
Plot Summary
Willie Soke (Billy Bob Thornton) is back, and as down-and-out as ever. Struggling with alcoholism and depression, Willie finds himself drawn back into the world of crime by his former partner Marcus (Tony Cox). This time, they plan to rob a Chicago charity on Christmas Eve. Adding to the chaos is Willie’s estranged mother, Sunny (Kathy Bates), whose presence complicates things further. Along the way, Willie reconnects with Thurman Merman (Brett Kelly), the now-grown boy from the first film, and becomes entangled with the charity’s director, Diane (Christina Hendricks). As the heist unfolds, Willie faces a series of misadventures and moral dilemmas.
Performances
Billy Bob Thornton once again shines as Willie Soke, delivering a performance that balances humor and pathos. His portrayal of the perpetually disgruntled and morally bankrupt Santa remains compelling and darkly funny. Tony Cox returns as Marcus, providing a sharp and witty counterpart to Willie’s antics. Kathy Bates steals the show as Sunny, bringing a new level of crudeness and unpredictability to the film. Brett Kelly, reprising his role as Thurman, adds a touch of innocence and heart to the otherwise cynical narrative. Christina Hendricks delivers a solid performance as Diane, the well-meaning but troubled charity director.
Visuals and Cinematography
Cinematographer Theo van de Sande captures the gritty and grimy aesthetic of urban Chicago, juxtaposing the festive holiday decorations with the seedy underbelly of the city. The film maintains a dark and muted color palette, reflecting the characters’ bleak outlooks and the film’s overall tone. The use of close-ups and handheld camera work adds to the sense of intimacy and immediacy, drawing viewers into Willie’s chaotic world.
Direction and Production
Mark Waters’ direction maintains the crude and irreverent humor that defined the original film while attempting to introduce new elements to keep the sequel fresh. The screenplay, written by Shauna Cross and Johnny Rosenthal, includes a mix of slapstick comedy, dark humor, and moments of genuine emotion. The production design, by Rusty Smith, effectively contrasts the opulence of the charity’s gala with the squalor of Willie’s life, highlighting the disparity between the characters’ worlds.
Themes and Analysis
“Bad Santa 2” explores themes of redemption, family dysfunction, and the search for meaning in a seemingly meaningless world. The film delves into Willie’s strained relationships with his mother and Thurman, examining the impact of past traumas and the possibility of change. Despite its crude humor and bleak outlook, the film ultimately suggests that even the most flawed individuals can find moments of grace and connection.
Streaming Services and Rental/Purchase Options
For viewers in America, “Bad Santa 2” (2016) is available on several streaming platforms and can be rented or purchased from various digital services:
- Amazon Prime Video: Available for rent or purchase.
- Apple iTunes: Available for rent or purchase.
- Google Play Movies: Available for rent or purchase.
- Vudu: Available for rent or purchase.
- YouTube Movies: Available for rent or purchase.
These platforms provide convenient access to the film, allowing audiences to enjoy its dark humor and holiday hijinks.
Conclusion
“Bad Santa 2” (2016) offers a return to the irreverent and subversive world of Willie Soke, delivering a mix of crude comedy and moments of unexpected heart. While it may not reach the heights of the original, the film provides plenty of laughs and a few poignant moments, thanks to strong performances from Billy Bob Thornton and Kathy Bates. If you’re in the mood for a holiday film with a dark twist, “Bad Santa 2” is worth a watch.
Embrace the irreverence and chaos of “Bad Santa 2” and enjoy a holiday film that’s anything but traditional.
