Here is another movie that I almost can't believe that I even watched, let alone am writing a review for. My family and I sat down to watch this together last night, and we all had a great time! This movie was actually hilarious!
In this sequel we see that the classic board game has transformed itself into a video game and console to draw players in. I was a bit curious as to how they would bring this story to life, but they did a fine job by bringing the players directly into the video game. Just wish they would have done something as a nod to the late, great Robin Williams.
First we have Spencer (Alex Wolff), a nerdy guy who is manipulated into helping an old friend, Fridge (Ser'Darius Blain), by doing his homework for him. Fridge is a huge athlete, who was friends with the small nerdy Spencer until about the 7th grade, when their paths forked. It's soon discovered by a teacher that Spencer had been writing the papers for Fridge, thus giving them both detention.
Next we have Bethany (Madison Iseman), a self absorbed, selfie taking, popular girl. Bethany is addicted to her cell phone and is busted making a video call during an exam. Again, landing her in detention.
The final detention spot is filled by Martha (Morgan Turner), a feisty redhead who would rather be in Geometry class than Gym. She also has no qualms about telling the gym teacher about how much gym is a waste of time.
After being sentenced to removing staples from thousands of magazines, Fridge finds the mysterious console and Spencer hooks it up. The four students choose characters and are sucked into the game! Spencer has chosen to play Dr. Smolder Bravestone (Dwayne Johnson). He's a "Rock" solid adventurer with no weaknesses or flaws. Next drops the Fridge. He picked to play as Moose Finbarn (Kevin Hart), a zoologist and weapons valet who's weaknesses are Speed, Stamina, and Cake? Bethany has chosen to play as Professor Shelly Oberon (Jack Black) who is a map reading person (lol). And finally we have Martha who chose to play as Ruby Roundhouse (Karen Gillam), the "Killer of Men", who's only weakness is venom and strengths include "Dance Fighting"?
The four quickly discover that, like in most video games, they have three lives in which to banish a curse which has fallen all throughout the jungle of Jumanji. They are opposed by Van Pelt (Bobby Cannavale), a fellow adventurer who found the Gem of the Jaguar and became able to control all wildlife within Jumanji. The heroes are tasked with returning the gem and breaking the curse in order to revive Jumanji and return home.
I'll begin by admitting that I am not usually a fan of Kevin Hart. However, he may have changed my mind with this performance and in another role from the film "Get Hard". Having lost two feet from the real world version of himself, Kevin Hart is now the smaller man between he and Spencer. You can tell that this causes him to understand what it's been like for Spencer in the real world. It's so hilarious when he finds himself spouting random facts about every animal they encounter, and then frantically asking, "Why do I know that"?
I've always thought that Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson had a great comedic timing and presence. This film affirmed that completely. From scenes where he runs as soon as danger presents itself, or by the continuous state of awe Spencer is in from his new physique, the Rock is so funny. I really prefer his comedic role to his action roles.
I could watch Karen Gillam all day! The gorgeous redhead and one of the stars in the Marvel Universe (Nebula), and former star of the Dr. Who series, trades her scholastic brains for feminine brawn. She quickly adapts to her new abilities and although she seems a little stiff in this film, she still was able to pull it off. Just not sure if she is cut for comedy?
In my opinion, Jack Black made this movie! He was phenomenal! Black, playing a teenage girl trapped in his middle-aged body is comedic gold! I totally lost it when Bethany (Black) had to ask Kevin Hart for help urinating. She didn't know how to use her "outdoor" plumbing. Beyond that was the way Black flirted with Alex (Nick Jonas), the first victim of the transformed game, who had been stuck inside Jumanji for 20 years. Black has the perfect "batty" eyes and "come hither" smile that only comes with completely being in touch with your feminine side. So damn funny!!!
I'll also say that Bobby Cannavale (Van Pelt) played an awesome villain! I wish he had more screen time! Cannavale is always superb in any role. I always think about his role in the small film "The Station Agent". Such a great performance. Happy to see him in this type of role. Seemed different than anything else I have seen him in.
This movie was really fun and had a really great cast. It's definitely family friendly and suitable for all ages. It was truly a very pleasant surprise.
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