Channing Tatum took the world by storm in 2012 when he released his semi-autobiographical indie-stripper film Magic Mike. While his killer abs and smooth dance moves helped propel the project, critics were surprised (and appreciative) when the film showcased a rather in-depth story that traveled far beyond the sex and one dollar bills. In 2015, the hardly imaginative sequel hits theaters, and while the film offers up a more diverse set of dance routines, the film itself fails to materialize, taking itself a bit too seriously and ultimately coming up just a few hip thrusts short.
The film, which brings back original stars Channing Tatum, Matt Bomer and Joe Manganiello, works hard to create its own identity. Without Matthew McCounganhey's Dallas leading the charge, the guys are heading to Myrtle Beach to put on one last performance. But things get a bit rocky as personality conflicts rise to the surface and everyone looks to end their careers with some legendary performance.
Though it is obvious that almost everyone who sees this film will be entertained by the flat abs and muscular butts that clutter the screen during the last third of the runtime, it should be noted that Magic Mike XXL begins amid an identity crisis, Working hard to be taken seriously, the film begins with a montage of heavy dialogue interchanges and one phallic centered dance routine. Neither of the two work well together, leaving audiences in a flux as they try to decipher whether the film is attempting to be a deep, thought-provoking character study or a sophisticated, girls-night-out fantasy. Neither comes to light during the first hour, making it a difficult (and somewhat awkward) story to sit through.
Thankfully we are introduced to Jada Pinkett Smith's Rome. Classy and sassy to the nine, Rome steals the show from the moment she steps on screen. Her dynamic personality counters that of Tatum's Mike, giving him a sidekick who can hang. Her demeanor is one of power and authority, and her control over Mike helps to give the film a pulse when it needs it most "“ not to mention a strong female lead with business sense.
The film uncovers its true purpose when the gang ends their road trip endeavors and finally land in Myrtle Beach. Here, amidst hundreds of other strippers (one of which performs a "killer" Twilight routine), the guys are able to perform their newly crafted routines. It is an interesting moment really, as each has grown to discover their true inspirations in life, and the women in the audience are sure to swoon at the cleverly choreographed maneuvers "“ one of which screams Fifty Shades of Grey "“ as they imagine themselves in the middle of the often times awkwardly humorous routines. And though the film ends with what audiences truly want, it is hard to ignore that they had to wait nearly ninety minutes for it.
