Darcie 
“Sing 2 will have you leaving the cinema with great music in your head, a smile on your face, and a feeling of all-out positivity.”
These winter months post-Christmas have a bit of a depressing reputation. But have no fear because Sing 2 is here to brighten up the dullest months of the year. Sing 2 will leave you with a smile on your face, great music in your head, and feeling optimistic. I was a little nervous about this film. After all, sequels to animated movies can sometimes be a disappointment (often feeling a little directionless or featuring spy or twin storylines). But Sing 2 equals the first. This is impressive considering the standard of the first film. Six years after the Sing was released it’s time to go back to our favorite animal singers for another adventure in the world of show business.
ALL-STAR CAST
Plot-wise, Sing 2 sees its characters face new challenges as they aim to put on their biggest stage show yet. Buster Moon (Matthew McConaughey) is back and this time has his sights set on Redshore City (so clearly a version of Las Vegas); as he promises he can put on a show unlike any other. His grand plan is nothing but an improvised, almost unrealistic challenge that sees Moon promising to bring reclusive singer Clay Calloway (Bono) back to the stage.
All the favorites are back for the show. Rosita (Reese Witherspoon) has to face fear to play the lead in the show. Johnny (Taron Edgerton) is put through his paces as his dancing skills are put to the test. Meena (Tori Kelly) faces the universal teen dilemma: romance. Gunter (Nick Kroll) the flashy but ultimately poor singer finally shows he has more use to the group than piggy power as he creates the narrative of the show. Wannabe rockstar Ash (Scarlett Johansson) is also back. This time she must convince her idol to join the show.
NEWCOMERS
There are some newcomers as well. Jimmy Crystal (Bobby Cannavale) is a media mogul with a penchant for throwing people from heights. His daughter and wannabe start Porsha (Halsey), street dancer Nooshy (Letitia Wright) and ice cream maker Alfonso (Pharrell Williams) are all great additions to the film. Overall, what makes the narrative so enjoyable is its clear and consistent goal. To overcome whatever obstacles there are to put on a show.
The movie offers something for viewers of all ages. The bright visuals, perfectly appealing to children will brighten the day of any adult. The stage show itself is full of humor, and big moments; with children even clapping after each song in the cinema. Older viewers can get lost in the emotional stories that weave throughout the film.
EMOTIONAL STORYLINES
Clay Calloway’s emotional storyline will make even the most emotionless viewers feel something as he overcomes the death of his soulmate. Female viewers particularly will be able to relate with some of the issues faced by first Ash as she is paid less than male singers at a club; then Rosita as she is replaced by a younger woman during the early stages of show production. The depth some of these characters have rivals Pixar’s level of development. With each character having to overcome something to create the stage show. And when they do overcome their issues, you cannot help but feel joyous, with a big happy smile on your face as you watch each scene unfold.
MUSIC
Music is at the very heart of Sing 2, unsurprisingly. But what is surprising is the quality of the soundtrack. Every song is a hit. The urge to sing along and dance in your seat should come as a warning on the film. If the bright visuals, great narrative, and emotional character moments weren’t enough to put you in a good mood the soundtrack will. The combination of pop hits, rock anthems, and a healthy dose of Billie Eilish is great fun. Each track is matched perfectly to the scene, with Bono, Scarlett Johansson, Reece Witherspoon; Taron Edgerton, Tori Kelly, and Halsey all delivering incredible vocals.
VERDICT
Overall, Sing 2 is a triumph, a joyous bright feast for the eyes and ears. Its ability to create fun whilst dealing with insecurities and emotions is brilliant. Sing 2 certainly doesn’t bow to sequel fatigue, I would even argue it is better than the first. In fact, it leaves me wanting more. After all, so many new great characters were introduced and their stories are only just beginning.
Brighten up your winter with Sing 2. I guarantee you’ll leave the cinema with great music in your head, a smile on your face, and a feeling of all-out positivity.
Sing 2 is distributed by Universal Pictures and is playing in cinemas NOW!
Darcie Gray is the Fashion Editor of The Future of the Force. Aside from being a passionate Star Wars fan, she loves every genre of movies and she channels her passion for film into her personal blog Just Another Film Blog. Follow her on Twitter where she shares her love of film regularly.
