The trailers for Hamlet 2 had me hooked from the beginning. There is just something about a film that makes a racial slur in the trailers that makes it irresistible. Sadly I wasn’t able to catch Hamlet 2 in theaters. So, the other day I was ecstatic to see Hamlet 2 sitting on the new releases rack.
The driving force in Hamlet 2 is Steve Coogan, playing Dana Marschz, a high school drama teacher. I know I have seen Dana Marschz before but for the life of me I can’t remember. I am not talking looks, but the character. I know I have seen the same personality, jokes, and attitude in another film. Would somebody please help me figure it out!?!? I am not bashing the role, I loved it. Coogan really made the film. There is just something about a bi-polar drama teacher that I think any high school student in America can relate to. At one point or another you have had a crazy teacher like Dana Marschz and finally there is a film about it.
Hamlet 2 has left me sitting on the fence though. On one hand, the story seemed pretty original. I kind of felt like it was mocking the High School Musical films, but still seemed like a very original story. On the other hand, the story was very predictable. It was easy to see when things were looking grim for Dana Marschz, and when something histerical was getting ready to happen. But then on the third hand (that’s right, three hands), it wasn’t as predictable as most films. There were several turns that just made me think, “Huh, didn’t see that one coming.”
This is one film that I really think deserves a sequel. I would love to see Dana Marschz strike back. He has some serious scores to settle. I also think it would make for a great film to see how the relationship with Elisabeth Shue plays out. I don’t know, I just really think that the stage is set for an amazing sequel. Perhaps Hamlet 3, or Macbeth Returns.
Some people may find Hamlet 2 offensive, but you must remember it is just a movie. There are worse films out there that go against every moral value that many people have, yet they still sell tickets, and DVDs. Sure, Hamlet 2 pushes the line with race, and probably goes a bit too far with the music number “Rock Me Sexy Jesus” but hey, it could be worse. Overall I say that Hamlet 2 was a good comedy, and a good way to waste 2 hours. It wasn’t the best movie of all time, but it is definitely worth watching.