XXL’s other major absence is less obvious. Indeed, with the exception of Mike, the Kings of Tampa remain one-note, a likeable enough gang of openhearted, confident hunks who are better off in the background when they’re not taking to the stage and ripping their clothes off. This proves to be a mixed blessing: While it’s enjoyable watching strippers like Big Dick Richie (Joe Manganiello) and Ken (Matt Bomer) get a little more screen time and develop as characters, the sad truth is they’re not particularly rich creations. In one fell swoop, XXL loses two of the original movie’s main characters, putting more of the focus on Tatum’s supporting cast. Although he thought he’d put those years behind him, Mike can’t resist the offer as they plan a whole new routine as their big farewell to the stripper life.Įarly on, XXL reveals that McConaughey’s Dallas has gone overseas with The Kid (Alex Pettyfer, from the first film) to pursue new entertainment opportunities. But the old gang, known as the Kings of Tampa, convince him to go on one last road trip to a high-profile stripper conference in Myrtle Beach, which will be the last time they all perform together before going their separate ways. XXL takes place three years after the first film, with retired stripper Mike (Tatum) now focusing on his construction business. As counterprogramming to Terminator Genisys and the forthcoming Minions, XXL could fit the bill for audiences already tired of the season’s shoot-‘em-ups and family fare. is counting on the fact that sex will continue to sell, and no doubt the movie’s guilty-pleasure vibe should be a major attraction for plenty of viewers. With an ad campaign that thrusts the cast’s beefcake bods front and centre, Warner Bros. The original, reportedly budgeted at $7m, grossed more than $167m worldwide, becoming that summer’s sleeper surprise.
Opening July 1 in the States before making its way across most of the rest of the globe by the end of the month, Magic Mike XXL will test whether box-office lightning can strike twice. If Magic Mike could be criticised somewhat for Soderbergh’s occasionally jokey attitude toward the dance sequences, XXL works to ensure that each impressive set piece is muscular and propulsive. As for the dancing, it’s as deliciously spirited as ever. Though saddled with plenty of obstacles - the absence of Matthew McConaughey in front the camera, the absence of Steven Soderbergh behind it, and the familiarity of the film’s road-trip narrative - this sequel to the unlikely 2012 male-stripper sensation has an agreeably ramshackle spirit and another winning turn from star and producer Channing Tatum. This isn't really a film for teens, obviously, but adults looking for a fun couple of hours of dancing and kidding around could do a lot worse.Less lively and sneakily emotional than the original, Magic Mike XXL still packs enough sexy fun to merit a second go-round with the Kings of Tampa.
Their bond as men who "make women smile" for a living is the driving force of the Magic Mike movies, and their hilarious banter - and fabulously choreographed dance scenes (a few courtesy of professional hip-hop dancer Stephen "tWitch" Boss) - make up for the barely there plot. Amber Heard's Zoe is considerably better as a possible love interest for Mike, but his true love story is with the other men who've danced alongside him for years.
Thank goodness the romance is downplayed in the sequel, because it never worked in Magic Mike.
Other stuff happens too - like the guys ending up in a Southern mansion full of rich first wives led by none other than Andie Macdowell, or their original emcee needing hospitalization after crashing their food truck van - but it's all just side dressing to allow for more stripping shenanigans. Mike joins his pals for one more night of strutting and stripping, but first he has to convince a former lover, Rome (Pinkett Smith), to emcee their routines. Let's be clear: There's not much to the plot of this movie. However, the combo of Tatum and his crew and new addition Jada Pinkett Smith makes for a fun, frivolous show.
Without Steven Soderbergh directing or McConaughey as Dallas, Magic Mike XXL is noticeably shallower than the original.