Writer/director/editor/actor Kevin Smith took this sequel around the country for special screenings last year, but it didn’t make it to Richmond. Smith play Bob, while Jason Mewes repeats his role as Jay. They take off on a road trip from New Jersey to LA to stop the reboot of their movie…uh, this movie. Yes, there are lots of Russian Doll / meta layers in this narrative. Along the way, Jay discovers the daughter he never knew he had and that adds attempts at heartwarming moments. Otherwise, it’s full of silly gags, a few genuinely funny moments and cameos from stars of previous Smith films, including a few big names. The overall feel is just as energetic and weird as the original, but with lots more self-references. The script features some of Smith’s clever quips, but there are several monologues that just go on too long…Smith loves to hear his words. Fans of the duo will probably find it suitably reverential in that irreverent style, but as a stand-alone comedy it misses more often than it lands. BTW, outtakes continue thru the credits with one of the best at the very end.
(2.5 / 5)