Commonly, reboots are not able to live up to the original. Add in a sequel to the reboot and most people start to groan, but “Jumanji: The Next Level” is an exception to that expectation as director Jake Kasdan returns to the video game with the unique twist of people possessing their game avatars.
This is like a new version of a video game coming out, with enjoyable things from its previous installment like characters and cake. At the same time, there are new things added to keep its players interested there are new things like expanded environments and new skills. Knowledge of the predecessor isn’t required, but certain reference can be missed otherwise.
This is not just a repeat from “Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle”. This ensemble works well together and keeps up with the twists that are taking place. Karen Gillan, Dwayne Johnson, Kevin Hart, and Jack Black all return to bring some new things to this project with a few new additions bringing a fresh perspective to the cast in Danny DeVito, Danny Glover, and Awkwafina as Spencer winds up in the game again and the rest of the group goes back in to rescue him as a new challenge awaits in new locales from the jungle to the desert to the mountains, all of which transition to each other just like a video game. While I knew what to expect from the talented “Danny’s”, it was nice to see a different side of Awkwafina after her rather emotional and serious performance in “The Farewell” earlier this year.
With a well done job all around by all of the parties involved to create different emotions, I was able to run the gambit of emotion right along with them. For a way to take a break from the holiday and have a moment of escape, I do recommend checking out “Jumanji: The Next Level” and enjoying a little over two hours.