Paul Blart: Mall Cop 2 (2015) Movie Review
“Paul Blart: Mall Cop 2,” directed by Andy Fickman and released in 2015, is a sequel to the 2009 comedy “Paul Blart: Mall Cop.” Starring Kevin James as the titular character, the film follows the bumbling mall cop on a new adventure, this time in Las Vegas. Despite the charm of its lead actor and the potential for comedic hijinks, the film received largely negative reviews from critics and audiences alike.
Plot Summary
The story picks up six years after the events of the first film. Paul Blart (Kevin James) is still working as a mall security officer, but his personal life has taken a series of unfortunate turns. After a short-lived marriage ends in divorce and his mother passes away, Blart is left feeling despondent.
Seeking a fresh start, Paul decides to attend a security officers’ convention in Las Vegas with his teenage daughter, Maya (Raini Rodriguez). While at the convention, Paul stumbles upon a criminal plot to steal valuable art from the Wynn Hotel. Determined to prove his worth, Paul takes it upon himself to stop the heist and save the day.
As Paul navigates the glitzy and chaotic environment of Las Vegas, he must rely on his unique (and often clumsy) skills as a mall cop to thwart the criminals and protect the innocent.
Analysis and Review
“Paul Blart: Mall Cop 2” aims to deliver slapstick comedy and family-friendly entertainment, much like its predecessor. Kevin James reprises his role with enthusiasm, embodying the well-meaning but hapless mall cop with his signature physical comedy and earnest charm. His commitment to the role is evident, and his comedic timing helps to elevate some of the film’s more predictable gags.
The setting of Las Vegas provides a vibrant and dynamic backdrop for the film’s antics. The opulent Wynn Hotel and Casino serves as a central location, offering plenty of opportunities for visual comedy and elaborate set pieces. The film’s production design captures the glitz and glamour of the city, creating a contrast with Paul’s humble and bumbling persona.
However, despite its potential, “Paul Blart: Mall Cop 2” falls short in several key areas. The screenplay, written by Kevin James and Nick Bakay, relies heavily on recycled jokes and slapstick humor that often feel repetitive and uninspired. The film struggles to find a balance between heartfelt moments and comedic hijinks, resulting in a disjointed narrative that fails to fully engage the audience.
The supporting cast, including Raini Rodriguez as Maya and Neal McDonough as the film’s villain, does their best with the material given. Rodriguez brings a relatable and endearing quality to her role as Paul’s daughter, while McDonough’s performance as the suave and sinister Vincent Sofel adds some tension to the plot. However, their characters are not developed enough to leave a lasting impact.
Legacy and Impact
“Paul Blart: Mall Cop 2” was met with largely negative reviews from critics, who cited its lackluster humor and formulaic plot as major drawbacks. Despite the critical reception, the film performed moderately well at the box office, indicating that there remains an audience for light-hearted, family-friendly comedies.
The film’s legacy is tied to its status as a sequel to a surprisingly successful original. While it may not have achieved the same level of acclaim or popularity, “Paul Blart: Mall Cop 2” continues to be a part of Kevin James’ body of work and the broader landscape of early 2010s comedy films.
Streaming Services and Availability
For those interested in watching “Paul Blart: Mall Cop 2,” the film is available on several streaming platforms in the United States. As of now, you can stream or purchase the movie on:
- Amazon Prime Video: Available for rental or purchase.
- Apple iTunes: Available for rental or purchase.
- Google Play Movies: Available for rental or purchase.
- Vudu: Available for rental or purchase.
- YouTube Movies: Available for rental or purchase.
Conclusion
“Paul Blart: Mall Cop 2” (2015) is a light-hearted comedy that attempts to recapture the charm and humor of its predecessor. Directed by Andy Fickman and starring Kevin James, the film offers moments of slapstick comedy and heartfelt family interactions. However, it struggles with a formulaic plot and repetitive jokes, resulting in a mixed viewing experience. While it may not be a critical darling, “Paul Blart: Mall Cop 2” provides an entertaining watch for fans of the genre and those looking for a feel-good comedy.
