American Pie 2

Review by By Clint Morris

1998's "American Pie" was a stupendous success. It was delicately handled, with fresh ingredients and a steamy scent of wit. Instead of heading back to the Bakery to make an even more delicious sequel, the creators of "American Pie 2" plan to feed you with leftovers from the first crusty treat.

The first "American Pie" came along a time when recipes had been thrown out of the window and in their place, cheesy unenjoyable comedies with dull character and plotting. What "Pie" had was original. It had hilarious characters, even more hilarious moments and a screenplay surprising light years ahead of every other film in this genre.

Although it could have been left to heat up a while longer, "American Pie 2" still has its fare share of vivacious belly laughs. There's a memorable superglue scene, a disgustingly funny champagne scene and a few more band camp stories.

The gang are regrouping after being separated at college for the year. Leaving the female characters as a side dish (and the actresses who play them with very little scenes), the boys decide on spending the summer at a Beach House. Their two goals: throw a wild party and get lucky…again.

Eugene Levy, although not one of the central characters, steals most of his scenes as Jim's overcompensating dad. And of the youngsters, Sean William Scott clocks up most of the gags as potty-mouthed Stifler, with his misplaced machoism and backfiring sexual endeavours. Jason Biggs and Alyson Hannigan also share some good scenes together as infamously embarrassed Jim (he's the one who got caught with the Pie in the first film) develops feelings for band-geek Michelle, whom you may recall had a flute fetish.

"American Pie 2" is raunchy, no-holds barred and daring. Unfortunately, the smutty gags are alone in their plight to entertain the audience this time, with the wit of the first film on leave.

In some respects, "American Pie 2" has taken a step back. Instead of closely resembling its almost classic 1998 predecessor, it comes dangerously close to playing like one of those tasteless 80's comedies like "Porkys" or "Revenge of the Nerds II". Had the cast not been in as good form as they are, I might have burnt the crust on this.

3 out of 5

American Pie 2
Australian release: Commences December 6th across Australia
Cast: Jason Biggs, Sean William Scott, Chris Klein, Eugene Levy, Mena Suvari, Tara Reid, Shannon Elizabeth, Thomas Guiry.
Director: J.B. Rogers.
Website: Click here

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