I was unimpressed with the first “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” movie, and was pretty “meh”‘ about seeing the new one. I was pleasantly surprised though, to find myself laughing out loud the whole way through. Most sequels suck, this one, IMO, was better than the first.
“Wimpy Kid” mark II again takes us into the “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” books, and the Heffley family drama. The two young stars (Zachary Gordon and Devon Bostick as Greg & Rodrick Heffley) are the reason this movie is as good as it is. They are both perfect for these roles, and together they carry the entire movie. One positive thing about both these movies is that it has inspired more reading on the part of my 7 year old. After seeing the first one he wanted one of the books, and now he’s even more desirous of indulging in a few more of the written series.
Nothing scary or anything in this movie, though Greg does get locked in the basement for a little bit. (Yes, he does get out.) I wouldn’t bother taking any kids under the age of 5/6, the situations and humor will be completely lost on them. It does get a high “cringe” factor rating, in that several of the awkward scenes made me VERY glad I wasn’t actually a part of it!
Certainly not in the running for “Best Picture” or anything like that, but if you’re looking for a couple hours’ escape to go laugh at the awkwardness of middle school, this is it.