I didn’t want to do it. I hate going into films with preconceived notions and do all in my power to leave my mind open no matter how much of a stinker it may seem to be. However, as much as I tried and tried, I had thoughts in my mind regarding this film well before I ever ventured to my local theater to treat myself to a viewing. My mind was a buzz. I really figured that a film geared towards women, that my lack of ovaries would surely prevent me from deriving any enjoyment at all from the experience. I honestly (as shallow as it sounds) guessed that the only thing about this film that could save me from drowning in seas of over emotional moments and dramatic soap opera-esque story lines was a bit of potential eye candy. These are the things that ran rampant through my mind as the previews ended and the film began. Soon though (and much to my shock) I would find myself drawn into the experience of it all.
The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants 2 is the sequel to the 2005 original and spawned from the uber popular series of books by author Ann Brashares. In this second film we find the fashion- forward foursome 3 years after the events of the first. It is the beginning of summer and Tibby, Carmen, Lena, and Bridget all have some pretty big adventures planned. Spread throughout each corner of the globe, the girls must find a way to nurture friendships and remain true to one another. With situations involving pregnancies, jealousy, love, death, secrets, and much more, this sequel is sure to draw you in and touch your heart.
I liked it. Much to the chagrin of some of my movie loving male friends and fellow reviewers, I was drawn in. I will admit that I am a bit more of a sap than some of the more rough and tumble types of guys, but it’s a part of myself that I’ve learned to embrace. These four girls that star in this film have a chemistry that is UNDENIABLE. The real that is felt whenever they appear together is something rarely found in film or in life. Amber Tamblyn (who, in this film, is beyond any amount of sexy you could ever imagine), America Ferrera, Blake Lively, and Alexis Bledel play the friends who share a bond through a "magical" pair of jeans. Four better actresses could not have been chosen. They al display a near perfect combination of girlish charm and womanly wit. The acting is about as top notch as you could ask for in a film of this nature and most of the supporting characters do a great job of doing just that...supporting. Granted, some of the males in this film are put out there for few other reasons than to make the core audience (women) swoon, but there acting skills are passable.
This film does a good job of introducing just enough storylines not to bore, but not so many that the audience gets confused as to whats going on where and how. The transitions between the lives of the four are smooth and connected. Although the stories aren’t too heavy in volume, some are misconstrued and confusing and just don’t give me enough. The introduction of Lena’s sister who seemed mysteriously absent in film #1, seems very forced (although I am told that the book series does a much better job with this character). Also, the character of Bridgets father played by Ernie Lively (who looks here like a poor man’s Tom Wopat), is pretty lifeless and did little more than distract me from what was actually going on.
Is this movie a chick flick? Yes. Is this movie meant to tug at your heart strings and induce a few tears? Probably. Is that always a bad thing? NO! I derived real enjoyment out of the majority of this film. If you can handle a bit of histrionics and some mild over acting, then I truly believe that you can be moved by this show. Don’t expect pounds of action, explosions, and crazy car chases, but sometimes we need a break from all that. This film provides just the right amount of chill for a completely relaxing and moving experience. You’ll laugh and you may cry, but I for one was pleased.
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