Bad Santa 2 (2016)

Genre: Christmas / Comedy

Directed by: Terry Zwigoff

Cast: Billy Bob Thornton, Tony Cox, Kathy Bates, Christina Hendricks, Brett Kelly

Running time: 92 minutes

Many years have passed since Willie was stabbed in the back by his partner in crime Marcus. Now a free man, he gets fired from his valet parking job because of another incident in the workplace. As Willie is about to commit suicide in his apartment, Thurman Merman, who is now 21, comes in and tells him that someone has sent him money and a phone. The gift is from Marcus, who is apologetic and wants Willie to go in the crime business with him again. Marcus also has another partner also, in the person of Sunny, Willie’s estranged mother. Though he is hesitant at first, due to his hatred for the woman who gave birth to him and for the man that turned on him, Willie will be convinced to get on board to steal money from a charitable organization before Christmas.

As one could expect, this sequel to the 2003 Christmas black comedy is lewd, crude and vulgar. And, really, it is part of its charm. While not as good as the original, which remains a favorite of mine, the second one is not without charm. Sure, some of the magic was gone and a little too much emphasis was put on constant punchlines, at the expense of the story, but I was still entertained by this movie.

The role of Willie is tailor-made for Billy Bob Thornton. He did a great job in it. Kathy Bates, as the brash crooked mother figure, was an awesome addition to the cast. The lovely Christina Hendricks was also a nice touch.

Overall, Bad Santa 2 needs to be taken for what it is: A raucous black comedy not meant to make you think too hard. It doesn't feel as fresh as the original, but, if you have seen the first one and love the characters, it is worth watching for the entertainment value.

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