Zoolander 2

Another old(er) film! This month I've felt like catching up on blockbusters I may have missed in 2015/early 2016. As they say, it may be an oldy but it's a goody! 

15 years after the smash hit Zoolander graced our cinema screens with it's satirical portrayal of models and the fashion world, the title character is back. Zoolander 2 follows a worn out Derek Zoolander after the death of Matilda, the collapse of his centre for illiterate children and the loss of custody of his son, Derek Jr. Interpol are investigating the confusing assassinations of several of the worlds biggest celebrities, who in their final captured moments point to Zoolander as a clue. Hansel and Zoolander are reunited by mutual pal Billy Zane - not the first celebrity cameo and not the last either - and are recruited by Valentina, an Interpol agent, to help investigate the suspicious murders. From this point on, the film becomes increasingly more ridiculous. A theme amongst the films I have reviewed this month!

With Zoolander, I feel that the attention is focused on the celebrity cameos above all else. And, to be honest, it appears this film was made, not to make another stellar Zoolander film but, in a bid to let celebrities act a little silly for a change. It is bizarre seeing respected actors like Benedict Cumberbatch as characters like All. But, I suppose that is part of the allure. The entire film felt like an odd fancy dress party, hosted by Ben Stiller, where the dress code was 'insane'. The weirdest part of it all was seeing Susan Boyle. Why was she even on a list of suggested names for this film? Because it's weird. Nothing about the film flowed like the original and the excessive and unnecessary cameos overshadowed every other aspect of the film. The cameos are, however, the perfect camouflage for a film that genuinely lacks substance. Perhaps studio executives, producers and directors alike, should reconsider flooding their film with famous faces when attempting to revive a franchise. 

Ben Stiller, Owen Wilson and Will Ferrell were reunited and it really did feel so good while it lasted. The three clearly work well together and do make for some seriously funny moments. I simply wish the film was better written to include more of the original films charm. The whole plot was a twisted, Zoolander take on The DaVinci Code. With secret groups of fashion icons conspiring to kill the descendant of lesser known Steve from the Adam and Eve tale as several 'rock stars', I am using this term loosely as Justin Bieber is involved, aim to protect the chosen one (Zoolanders son - woops spoilers).

Yet again, a film I'm happy to have skipped in the theatres to view at home for free. It's truly a sad moment when you realise films like this are funded over special and profound indie projects.