We’re in late August, but we’re still getting some interesting new releases. Below is my take on the films I saw this week. As always, follow all my film viewing on Letterboxd @Knighthawk7734

Vacation Friends 2 (Hulu)
Starring: Lil Rel Howery, John Cena, Yvonne Orji, Meredith Hagner, Carlos Santos, and Steve Buscemi
Synopsis: Way back in the summer of 2021, Hulu had an original comedy about a couple (Howery and Orji) who had their vacation interrupted by the wild couple (Cena and Hagner) who latched on to them. That continued as they returned home and, eventually, a real friendship bloomed. Now, the stars of that film are back with a follow up. This time the foursome are friends on purpose, headed out on another luxury vacation. This one is also an audition for Marcus (Howery), as he’s trying to land a major account for his firm. Ron (Cena) and Kyla (Hagner) are trying to help, but when Kyla’s father (Buscemi) shows up, all bets are off. The characters here are already defined, so this is about building the stakes and the world. Some of it works and some of it is just OK. The film still thrives off the unlikely pairing of Howery and Cena, and that still mostly works. The addition of Buscemi is fun at times but the story meanders and it sometimes feels a bit long at 105 minutes. The film is OK, providing some laughs and working as a simple streaming option. It’s not deep, but if you enjoyed the first one this will likely be right in your wheelhouse.
Rating: Rated R for pervasive language, some sexual references and drug use.

You Are So Not Invited to My Bat Mitzvah (Netflix)
Starring: Adam Sandler, Jackie Sandler, Idina Menzel, Sadie Sandler, Sunny Sandler, Jackie Hoffman, and Luis Guzman
Synopsis: Adam Sandler is continuing to make movies a family affair. This time literally, as wife Jackie and daughters Sadie and Sunny star in this adaptation of the book from Fiona Rosenbloom. File this one under the category it’s hard to be a teenage girl. If you were thinking it was a classic Adam Sandler film, you’ll be a little disappointed. He’s mostly a supporting part here as the focus is on Sunny here, who is preparing for her big day while surviving a fall out with her best friend Lydia (Samantha Lorraine). The plotting here is predictable, and the humor is fairly PG. For the right target audience, this will work well. For most viewers, especially Sandler’s normal fanbase, this probably isn’t what you’re looking for. Still, it’s a fine addition to the Netflix catalog and a solid piece of pre-teen entertainment.
Rating: Rated PG-13 for some crude/suggestive material, strong language and brief teen drinking.

Matthew Fox is a graduate of the Radio, Television and Film program at Biola University, and a giant nerd. He spends his free time watching movies, TV, and obsessing about football. He is a member of the FSWA. You can find him @knighthawk7734 on Twitter and as co-host of the Fantasy Football Roundtable Podcast.