Feel-good movies set the spirit soaring but feel-good movies with a comedic signature are none, and none commit to such projects as Adam Sandler. Happy Gilmore 2 was just as expected: a laugh-out-loud feature filled with classic antics, a tried-and-true storyline, and recognizable faces.
“Happy Gilmore” was a project Adam Sandler took on earlier in his career. While it was not his first feature and he was well on the way to establishing himself, it was another stepping stone for the actor in solidifying that he was a presence and he wasn’t going anywhere. As a young comedian, he brought his special brand of humor, charming fans. And continues to do so.
Reluctant Beginnings, Unexpected Success
In the 1996 feature, Sandler played Happy, a man who had grown up with his dreams set on pro hockey. While he obviously had talent, he was not quite built for Hockey, and he was extremely rough around the edges. Thus, his dreams didn’t pan out the way he hoped. During an unexpected turn of events in his life, his grandmother’s loss of her home, he learned of an undiscovered talent that was mis-targeted and all that was needed was help honing it. Although reluctant at first, with the right mentor, he most unexpectedly became one of the top golfers in the world.
The Real Game Begins When Family Calls — Happy Gilmore’s Emotional Comeback
“Happy Gilmore 2” is the sequel to that laugh-out-loud film, exploring Gilmore’s life after winning the girl, having a family, and becoming an overwhelming success. While this is our introduction to the current normal, it does not remain so. True start of the narrative begins when tragic misfortune strikes with a vengeance and takes Happy out of the game for what seems like for good. And he has no intention of going back until he has no choice but to do so. What incites his journey back is his children, the one thing in his life that gives him purpose and more specifically, his daughter. Her talent, a dream, and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity are the fuel that drive Happy back to the green and ultimately the narrative.
Sandler’s Secret Sauce: Building a Family of Comedic Talent and Loyal Fans
Adam Sandler owns his roles. His signature never dries; it’s like permanent ink. Viewers walk in, knowing what to expect and always served exactly what they came for. Few own a brand like Sandler and have managed to build not only a massive fandom doing so but also a great group of collaborative partners. This is one of the secrets to his success. Sandler has an uncanny knack of making all of his features feel like the viewer is just part of an extended family. Almost every feature is a reunion of comedic talent, a group with a synergistic energy that continues to build.
The Return of Happy Gilmore
As also on brand, “Happy Gilmore 2” presented its viewers with some surprise additions to the cast, which was an additional delight. However, one notable absence was largely felt and that was the absence of Carl Weathers, who played Gilmore’s affable mentor and coach in “Happy Gilmore,” the first installment. Suffice it to say the cast was filled with talent that carried the film home.
For anyone wanting a little pick-me-up, some Sandler magic, or a feel-good comedic feature perfect for some deep belly laughs, check out Happy Gilmore 2 on Netflix.
Uncut Diamonds 