Fubar II

Being a big fan of the original FUBAR (2002), I was surprised to find out that there was a sequel released all the way back in 2010 that I hadn't heard of.

After watching this, I'm conflicted: I'm glad I watched it, and I', glad they were able to get it made and released, but it's a hell of a lot darker than I expected. Now, if you go and re-watch 2002's FUBAR (if you need to), you'll realize it may be darker at times, than you remembered, but this went a bit farther. Did that ruin it for me? No, not really, but I didn't enjoy it as much as I had expected to - but that's probably on me. I was glad to see Terry and Deaner back on the screen, for sure, and there were a few points that made me laugh out loud, as a well as a surprise or two.

As something that mysteriously ended up on my hard drive, I had no motivation to unpack this unfamiliar movie with the goofy name. From the opening scene I was aware that it was a Canadian film, and that did nothing to improve my hopes for this film. It was a Christmas miracle in October that I even got to the final credits because I had to view the movie in three separate sittings. Funny, tender, sincere, well paced, unexpected, irreverent, tidy and believable ending. I mean, damn, I was expecting "Trailer Park Boys karaoke the entire catalog of Motorhead while shotgunning cheap beer" and what I got was more like "Cheech & Chong bolted into Trading Places". Basically, jackass stoner vibes with a A, B, C story that worked. Well done, Canada!

If you have been watching this movie, I assume that you saw the first Fubar as well. Otherwise you would probably miss out on a lot of details that are useful for the entertainment of this sequel.

The main thing about this movie, in contrast to the first Fubar, is that the concept has changed. This is no longer a mockumentary of the decadent Headbangers Dean and Terry, but instead it evolves into a regular acting-movie. Which is an idea that I absolutely can cope with. Too often you see the sequels of various films just copying the concept right off (The Paranormal Activity-series is a perfect example of just that) and rarely leaving any space for innovation and fresh ideas.

Fubar II is just the opposite of the average half-ass sequel! By turning the concept of Fubar into a sort of regular movie (with some moments of documentary-like filming) they automatically gained room for more than just the perspective of one persons eyes. We can follow the plot through multiple angles and everything melts together perfectly! The head actors David Lawrence and Paul Spence are keeping the cemented picture of Dean and Terry true to it's origin, and these two characters fits perfect for the plot in this film.

Basically, the story begins with a house party that goes out of control in every way. Everything except for Dean and Terry has changed in the past ten years, they are still the same decadent Headbangers that love to party and sees no need for a life better than the one they already have... Until their house burns down. Their old friend "Tron", in his drunken haze, offers them employment at an oil-plant in Fort McMurray, also referred to as "The Mac", in northern Canada.

The two Headbangers immediately set off to work at 'The Mac' the morning after and there they meet a not-very-happy to see them 'Tron'. Either way, they manage to find themselves working and finally making the big bucks.

I feel no need to further guide you through the story, as this is a review and not the back of a DVD-box.

Great acting, many laughable moments and in general a great movie, enjoyable for most people blessed with a sense of humor. It's original, ironic and at times emotional. If you liked the first Fubar, you will definitely enjoy this sequel.

Terry Cahill and Dean Murdoch are idiot slackers, head-banging best friends in Calgary. Dean is 5 years cancer free and a deadbeat dad. They get evicted and head out to Fort McMurray to make some money. Their friend Tron is dismayed to take them on his work crew. The boys drink and go to the strip club. Terry starts dating barmaid Trish. Dean works the workers' comp angle. His cancer's back to take his other testicle.

Other than being a deadbeat dad, the guys have created a great pair of characters. At least, the ex-wife seems at peace with him. They do need somebody to give the production some structure and better comedy. It does ramble around as the story lacks a driving plot. The boys would probably work better as a half hour comedy TV show. They are fun in smaller doses.

Deaner & Terry take you on a trip that feels so innocent life..small quanta of happiness.Down the road you start identifying with them and it feels like you are living the movie... kudos for the director who made the movie like a simple running fountain...i mean who needs to be Bill gates if you can live like this...this sequel has added some background music and songs unlike the first one.Only problem is brevity of the movie...cos when you are start to enjoy it, it starts ending on you...and you wish they had made two sequels together so that you could enjoy it a little bit more... all in all, its a magical small trip of carefreeness,and joy.and i am eagerly waiting for next sequel already...