Today’s quick review: Major League II. One year after a miraculous season, the Cleveland Indians have lost their edge. It’s up to their coach Lou Brown (James Gammon), veteran catcher Jake Taylor (Tom Berenger), and the team’s new owner Roger Dorn (Corbin Bernsen) to whip the team back into shape. But the Indians face stiff competition from the Chicago White Sox, particularly with ace pitcher Ricky Vaughn (Charlie Sheen) going through an identity crisis.
Major League II is a sports comedy that pits a team of oddballs against fearsome rivals, fickle fans, and their own success. The sequel sees most of the original cast return, with a few colorful newcomers to round out the team. Major League II has good comedic actors, charming moments, and a light, fun tone. However, the film is held back by a halfhearted script and recycled jokes, keeping it from matching its predecessor.
Major League II follows the same formula as the original Major League. The Cleveland Indians are thrust back into their underdog role by their own lack of focus. The script puts in less effort than the original, coasting on reused gimmicks without innovating much. The sequel does have its moments, but in general it lacks the heart of the original. The odds are not as long, the victories are not as hard-won, and the jokes are not as memorable.
Watch Major League II if you enjoyed the first film and don’t mind a dip in quality. Though not as novel or as cleanly executed as the original, Major League II remains a light and fairly entertaining watch. Those looking for more bang for their buck should check out the original Major League. For a more ridiculous sports comedy, try Dodgeball.
5.5 out of 10 on IMDB. I give it a 6.5 for decent fun and a good cast, but without the heart of the original.