‘Jumanji: The Next Level’ is a thrilling action

BY Ron and Leigh

rrrWelcome to the jungle, again. This time the goal is to take it to the next level, again. The original “Jumanji” (1995) starred Robin Williams and a very young Kirsten Dunst as kids getting pulled into a menacing board game. Based on the novel by Chris Van Allsburg (“Polar Express”), it was innovative, thrilling and extremely intense.

As they say, the gang is back but the game has changed. It turns out NYU freshman Spencer (Alex Wolff) has lost confidence in himself since his last trip to the jungle. So, he decides to return to Jumanji to prove his worth. As his friends search for Spencer at his house, Bethany realizes, “I don’t think he went out, I think he went in. We gotta go get him.” Fridge, the football player exclaims, “Are you out of your mind?”

Director-co-writer Jake Kasden returns from the last episode. His so-so script is mostly an excuse for the action, adventure and display of the charismatic cast, which he superbly directs. The all-star ensemble includes Dwayne Johnson, Kevin Hart, Jack Black and Karen Gillan (“Guardians of the Galaxy”), but are joined by a hilarious Danny DeVito, Danny Glover, Nick Jonas and scene-stealer Awkwafina (“Crazy Rich Asians”).

“Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle” (2017) was a reboot of sorts, now played on a video game, where alter egos of the kids are pulled into the game’s jungle. The cast returns for the new adventure, but this time each avatar is of a different sex, race or even a different species. One asks, “Did I die and turn into a small muscular boy scout?” and another protests, “No, no, no! I’m the old fat dude! This can’t be happening!”

This is the running gag for most of the movie, and it’s actually pretty funny. As they return to rescue one of their own, the players will have to explore unknowns from the deep jungle to the arid desert, to steep snowy mountains. Filmed in Hawaii, New Mexico and Alberta, Canada, the scenery is spectacular and creates the surreal setting for their fantastic exploits in this realistically imaginary world.

Upon arrival, they are greeted by Nigel (Rhys Darby), the cheery safari commander. Nigel explains, “Jumanji is in danger, Jurgen the Brutal (Rory McCann) is back and the future of Jumanji is in your hands.” So, off they go on another most excellent adventure. Finding their friend will be difficult enough, but now they must fight the powerful Jurgen and then find a way to escape the world’s most dangerous game.

This is not a cinematic masterpiece, by any means, but the charismatic cast, lively action and one-line zingers are solid popcorn entertainment. Fortunately, it doesn’t try to be more than what it is. It’s a silly fantasy that is fun and funny. Where else could you watch a cast in dune buggies being chased by a heard of angry ostriches? The entire crew seems to be having a lot of fun making fun of each other and themselves.

As a tribute to the 1995 original, Bebe Neurith (“Frasier”) returns as Nora and an end-credits video reprises Jumanji animals invading the real world. This could possibly be setting up this casts’ third film of their own trilogy. A fun fact is that the filming of this movie started in February, finished in May and released in December, which is about a year faster than most theatrical releases turnaround a major motion picture.

“Jumanji: The Next Level” is 123 minutes and rated PG-13 for adventure action, suggestive content and some language. As promised, it does take it to the next level and that’s what this audience came to see. It is mostly cartoonish and not nearly as intense or threatening as the original. Yet, it does know what it wants to be and that’s dumb-fun and thrilling action-adventure.

Each of the new characters are suitable additions to the primary avatars played by Dwayne Johnson, Kevin Hart, Karen Gillan and Jack Black. However, Danny DeVito and Awkwifina are especially delightful in their new roles. There are serious hints at another film, but our vote for this series is “game over.”

Ron’s Rating: B
Leigh’s Rating: C