Happy Gilmore 2 Review: I Actually Laughed. A Lot.

You know those moments when you’re expecting a total mess… and end up having a blast? That’s exactly what happened to me with Happy Gilmore 2. I hit play with zero expectations and a cup of tea in hand, assuming I’d bail after twenty minutes. But here I am, smiling, still quoting scenes in my head, and honestly? I had a great time.

So yeah—he’s back. Happy Gilmore. After nearly thirty years, the guy with a hockey jersey and an attitude is swinging his club again. And I’m telling you, it’s chaotic, ridiculous, nostalgic—and somehow it all works.

Back on the Green – With That Wild Swing Intact

This isn’t the same old Happy. He’s older now. Retired. A father. A guy who’s seen better days and drinks more than he should. But when his daughter gets a shot at a ballet school in Paris—and they need money, of course—he dusts off the clubs, puts the rage back into his golf game, and dives straight into the madness that is… Maxi Golf (yes, it’s just as ridiculous as it sounds).

Is it absurd? Absolutely. But that’s kind of the point.

I Was Laughing Out Loud. Legit.

What surprised me most is that there’s more emotional depth here than you’d expect. Sure, there’s still that over-the-top slapstick and awkward gags. But underneath, you’ve got themes of aging, regret, second chances—and they land better than you’d think.

Ben Stiller shows up as a sadistic rehab group leader, and it’s just as darkly funny as it sounds. Then you’ve got Happy reuniting with old rivals, reconnecting with family, and slowly climbing out of the emotional hole he’s dug himself into.

It’s silly and sweet in all the right ways.

Who’s Who on the Fairway? The Cast Brings It All Together

Let’s talk casting, because this film really nailed it.

Adam Sandler is still Happy—but not the unhinged kid from the ’90s. He plays it older, rougher around the edges, but still with that wild energy under the surface. Honestly, it’s one of his better recent performances.

Julie Bowen returns as Virginia, and while she doesn’t get a ton of scenes, her presence brings grounding and emotional weight to the film. She’s the heart that ties all the chaos back to something real.

Shooter McGavin? Absolutely back—and better. Christopher McDonald is still gloriously arrogant, but there’s maturity in his character now. Watching him and Happy bicker again? Nostalgic heaven.

And the Newcomers? Surprisingly Solid.

Benny Safdie plays Frank Manatee, the kind of sleazy golf tycoon you can’t help but enjoy hating. His energy is chaotic in the best way—think villain, influencer, and PR disaster all rolled into one.

Sunny Sandler, Adam’s real-life daughter, steals the show as Vienna. She’s not just a “cameo kid.” She brings genuine charm, vulnerability, and she holds the emotional weight of the film.

Lavell Crawford as Slim (Chubbs’ son!) is a sweet tribute and great addition. He brings old-school vibes while still feeling fresh. And yes—Bad Bunny is in this, and he’s hilarious. I didn’t expect to like him this much, but he totally works as Happy’s unexpected caddy.

My Honest Rating? 9/10 – And No, I Don’t Care What Rotten Tomatoes Says

Critics gave this movie somewhere around 60–64%. And that’s fine. Not every joke lands. Sometimes there’s a bit too much going on. And sure, some of it feels like fan service.

But I don’t care.

I laughed, teared up. I felt things. And that’s worth more than a perfectly constructed screenplay. Happy Gilmore 2 doesn’t try to be clever—it just wants to entertain. And it totally succeeded for me.

Final score? Solid 9 out of 10.

No regrets. And honestly, I might watch it again tonight.

Should You Watch It?

If you grew up quoting “it’s all in the hips,” or if you ever tried a run-up golf swing in real life, this one’s for you. Happy Gilmore 2 is pure comfort food. It’s messy, chaotic, and wildly fun.

If you’re after subtle humor or tight storytelling… yeah, maybe skip it. But if you’re just looking for 90+ minutes of goofy fun with familiar faces? You’ll love it.

Watching While Abroad? Here’s How to Stream Netflix Anywhere

Okay, real talk. If you’re traveling—or just stuck in a country where Netflix doesn’t have the same selection—you need a solid VPN. I never stream without one anymore.

With a VPN (virtual private network), you can unlock shows and movies that aren’t available in your region. It’s like giving your Netflix account a passport. Whether you’re vacationing in Greece or visiting your grandma in rural nowhere, these VPNs will keep your binge game strong.

My Top 5 VPNs for Streaming (Tested & Trusted):

1. NordVPN – Super fast, super secure, and works perfectly with Netflix, Hulu, and more.
2. ExpressVPN – Easiest to use and incredibly reliable for unblocking regional libraries.
3. Surfshark – Best value for families (unlimited devices = yes please).
4. CyberGhost – User-friendly and has special servers optimized for streaming.
5. PIA VPN – Great for privacy lovers who also want to binge in peace.

So go ahead—fire up Happy Gilmore 2, grab some popcorn, and reconnect with one of the most chaotic (but loveable) anti-heroes golf has ever seen. Even if you’re halfway across the world.

Anna

My name is Anna, and my daily life is a balancing act between family logistics, work responsibilities, and trying not to lose myself in the process. I cherish the moments when everything comes together – a good cup of tea, a calm morning, and our family all in one place. I'm not a perfectionist, but I do like things in order (especially in my head). I love planning trips, trying new recipes, and creating a home that feels good not just for us, but for anyone who walks through the door. And even when life gets a little chaotic, I believe that humor, openness, and love can do more than the most perfect plan ever could.

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