The Cannonball Run II is a follow-up to the previous movie, where J.J. McClure (Burt Reynolds) and Victor Prinzim (Dom DeLuise) participate again in a cross-country Cannonball car race that this time is organized by The Sheik (Jamie Farr), who is a little upset at not winning the last Cannonball run.
Like the previous film, this sequel is a plot-less nonsensical comedy with an all-star cast. This movie is not meant to be taken seriously and it is apparent that the entire cast were just having fun and goofing around while making this film. However, Part II lacks the charm and uniqueness of Part I due to it basically being a toned-down retread of the first movie and Roger Moore is sorely missing in the picture. While the Godfather/mafia type subplot is a clever spoof, it is not emphasized enough nor is it connected very well to the race plot. Nor is the Sheik character elaborated upon, which I think is a must since he hosted the race.
The characters' physical comedy and quick humor as they compete in the race are somewhat entertaining; however, some of the gags and jokes do run a little old. Female leads Shirley MacLaine and Marilu Henner weren't as charming or appealing as Adrienne Barbeau and Tara Buckman, and the action sequences weren't very action-packed. However, Jackie Chan and Richard Kiel did make a humorous duo and Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Jr. were hilarious with their quick wit and political jokes. And, the song Like A Cannonball Run sung by the Latin group, Menudo, is very catchy and fun to listen to.
Overall, it's a very average comedy. If you liked the first movie, this movie is somewhat of a downer. However, it's not an extremely bad movie to watch if you just want something to pass the time with.
Grade C
Like the previous film, this sequel is a plot-less nonsensical comedy with an all-star cast. This movie is not meant to be taken seriously and it is apparent that the entire cast were just having fun and goofing around while making this film. However, Part II lacks the charm and uniqueness of Part I due to it basically being a toned-down retread of the first movie and Roger Moore is sorely missing in the picture. While the Godfather/mafia type subplot is a clever spoof, it is not emphasized enough nor is it connected very well to the race plot. Nor is the Sheik character elaborated upon, which I think is a must since he hosted the race.
The characters' physical comedy and quick humor as they compete in the race are somewhat entertaining; however, some of the gags and jokes do run a little old. Female leads Shirley MacLaine and Marilu Henner weren't as charming or appealing as Adrienne Barbeau and Tara Buckman, and the action sequences weren't very action-packed. However, Jackie Chan and Richard Kiel did make a humorous duo and Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Jr. were hilarious with their quick wit and political jokes. And, the song Like A Cannonball Run sung by the Latin group, Menudo, is very catchy and fun to listen to.
Overall, it's a very average comedy. If you liked the first movie, this movie is somewhat of a downer. However, it's not an extremely bad movie to watch if you just want something to pass the time with.
Grade C