4 out of 5 stars
Honestly, Sing was a complete surprise for people around the world in 2016. This talent show coordinated by the koala, Buster Moon (Matthew McConaughey), became a runaway hit that captured the hearts of audiences. It is difficult to put the finger on what exactly made this film magical. Unless you consider Moon’s optimism and the plethora of vocal talents that make this one of those films on repeated play in the homes of children who love to sing along with their movies.
This sequel was a foregone conclusion after becoming another hit for Illumination Studios who brought us the Minions. With most of the original cast coming back for this curtain call, we see how the new theatre has been transformed after a few years since its reopening. They are currently performing their own interpretation of Alice in Wonderland to a packed house. Despite the screaming fans, one day becomes pivotal for the group as a talent scout named Suki (Chelsea Peretti) is in the audience. She represents Jimmy Crystal (Bobby Cannavale), the king of entertainment in the Las Vegas-esque Redshore City. Yet, the scout does not connect with the small band of performers and tells Buster that they will never make it in the ruthless entertainment industry.
Instead of being rejected by this criticism, the theatre owner motivates Meena (Tori Kelly), Gunter (Nick Kroll), Rosita (Reese Witherspoon), Ash (Scarlett Johansson) and Johnny (Taron Egerton) to take a leap of faith and make their way to Redshore City. Without any guarantees and little hope of getting an audition, they manage to find themselves in front of Jimmy Crystal. Who they convince to back their idea for an outer space show entitled Out of This World, if they can get the reclusive rock superstar Clay Calloway (Bono) to be part of the show. Something that proves to be an impossibility since he has not been seen in 15 years and the whole production needs to be ready in three weeks. With all of their careers in the balance, the close-knit team tries to overcome multiple difficulties to put together this unlikely production.
Once again, audiences should never underestimate the influence of this creative and motivational koala. Even with all of his enthusiasm and charisma, there is nothing in this explanation that has the makings of a great sequel to an international hit. Still, director Garth Jennings (Sing) manages to find the same unexpected magic from the original. Even though this one moves at a frenetic pace and has fewer individual performances, this group of vocal talent still delivers a touching musical tale. Despite the spoiler-riddled trailers, the final result does provide enough fresh content to recapture the hearts of the returning audience.
What should parents know about Sing 2? For everyone who is coming back to find out more about their favourite animated theatre troupe, this one does help to build the character of each member of Buster Moon’s team. There are no hidden political agendas, merely a look behind the curtain at the challenging world of entertainment. Even though some of the themes may not be accessible for the younger set (5 and under), families will enjoy the action and the fun interpretations of popular songs. There is no objectionable material to report and who knows, your children may embrace the classic tunes of U2 in the process.
Parents can discuss multiple topics with their children after Sing 2. Still, the stand-out talking point would be how many of the best things in life come through struggle and rejection. This film provides a teachable moment about the value of perseverance and trusting in those who care about you.
Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. James 1:2-4
Enjoy the film, sing along with your children and be sure to start a Reel Dialogue afterwards and to open more space for reflection and conversation about God, go to thirdspace.org.au
