Sing 2

Being in the middle of the end of year film season, there usually is, at least, one animated film in the offing. And with that, Hollywood has offered an amazing follow up to the original "Sing" by giving us "Sing 2" to sink our teeth into. Usually sequels are not as well crafted as its predecessor, however in this case, the opposite has definitely occurred.

This holiday season, the new chapter in Illumination's smash animated franchise arrives with big dreams and spectacular hit songs as the ever-optimistic koala, Buster Moon (Matthew McConaughey), and his all-star cast of performers including Rosita (Reese Whitherspoon), Ash (Scarlett Johansson), Meena (Tori Kelly), Johnny (Taron Edgerton), Gunter (Nick Kroll), plus others, in the glittering entertainment capital of the world. There's just one hitch: They first have to persuade the world's most reclusive rock star, Clay Calloway (Bono) to join them. 

Others to round out the cast are Bobby Canavale as Jimmy Crystal, Adam Buxton as Klaus Kickenklober, Garth Jennings as Miss Crawley, Nick Offerman as Norman, Halsey as Porsha Crystal, Jimmy's daughter, Chelsea Peretti as Suki, Jennifer Saunders as Nana and Julia Davis as Linda Le Bon. 

This was electrifylingly well crafted by director Garth Jennings ("The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy" '05, "Son of Rambow" '07, "Sing" '16) plus video shorts, TV and a ton of music videos. As with "Sing" Jennings was able to entertain his audience with a show that was funny, entertaining and heartfelt all in one. He knows how to get his actors in that frame of mind when it comes to telling a story. It was also equally well written by Jennings ("Son of Rambow" '07, "Sing" '16) plus TV, a video short and a short. Even though this film and its predecessor were basically referenced to the show "America's Got Talent" along with the background of the show, it was still written with an electrifying, but whimsical element. "Sing" introduced us to the characters, whereas this film dwelled more on bringing these characters to an all new level. The characters are delineated with such individualized personalities, whether they be main characters or those that don't have a huge role. This is writing at its best. And the animation by Illumination Mac Guff was simply superb. Kudos to them!

If you're looking for a great Christmas, family film that's fun for all that's well written and directed all with a great message, this will be the film to see. It is also presented in an IMAX format as well. Grab the popcorn and enjoy this gem. I certainly did!

Out of 4 Stars: 4                                              Rated: PG                                               110mins.