'My Big Fat Greek Wedding 2' A Review

My Big Fat Greek Wedding 2 is a family comedy, the sequel to the 2002 sleeper hit. Toula(Nia Vardalos) after spending the intervening years raising her daughter, who is about to embark on her collegiate quest, finds herself spending more and more time taking care of her aging parents, at odds with her husband Ian(John Corbett), and back working at the family restaurant she worked so hard to escape. Toula's parents find out their marriage was not actually official which sends the family into chaos.

Vardalos reprising her most famous role is pleasant and pleasing but not as dynamic as her original incarnation. Toula seems to have lost much of the strength and independence she gained in the first film and the character isn't as active in this sequel. Vardalos is more a foil for the other characters and the comedy so some heart is lost as this is not her personal and romantic transformation, she is more of a foil and thus doesn't have as much to do. That all being said Vardalos is a natural gifted performer, she is watchable, and although it is slightly disappointing she doesn't have a bigger part in this story it is enjoyable enough to see her and Toula again. It is incredibly gratifying to see the entire cast return to their roles, looking appropriately and gracefully aged, but there are two main stand outs. Andrea Martin as Aunt Voula brings dynamic energy, heart and humor, a character and a portrayal that has aged beautifully. Bess Meisler as Mana-Yiayia is less crazy and more funny, with a couple moments of potent tenderness.

Although not as focused or romantic as its predecessor it is more fun and funnier. Perhaps slightly contrived and at moments over-the-top it is still a real joy to get to visit these characters again and, briefly, be a part of the family.

Rent It.