Hamlet 2

Hamlet 2 stars Steve Coogan as an actor-gone-high school drama teacher. His lackluster productions lead the school board to cut funding for the drama program on the eve of his original play intended to save the department: Hamlet 2. This sequel has Hamlet traveling through time with Jesus for some reason and is viewed as highly offensive by many. As a result, the school decides to cancel the play. But Coogan's character is bent on performing his baby.

Quite the premise.

Unfortunately, the film doesn't live up to the premise. The only funny moments in the film are when we see characters rehearse the play or discuss its scenes. This really builds up expectations for the final performance which doesn't end up being funny at all. It is built up to be so scandalous, over-the-top, and crossing the line, but in the end Hamlet 2 (play and film) is just not that outrageous. I was very frustrated because the premise and its star, Coogan, obviously have so much potential. But instead of relying on shock humor (I expected something in the vein of Matt Stone and Trey Parker) it settles for uninspired slapstick and unoriginal urban-meets-suburban student interactions.

Hamlet 2 was a vehicle built to soar, but never manages to lift off the ground.