Connected by characters and not story, Journey 2 is the sequel to Bredan Frasier’s Journey to the Center of the Earth. Featuring only one returning central character – played by Josh Hutcherson – Journey 2 once again sets this bad attitude teen out to prove that Jules Vern’s novels weren’t just made-up fiction. Joined by his new step-dad (The Rock, aka Dwayne Johnson), they travel halfway around the world find “The Mysterious Island.”
It’s believed that Zany Grandpa (Michael Caine) is stuck on the island, so they’re going to find him – the only problem is that the island is located in the eye of a perpetual category five hurricane located near Palau. To get there, they must employ the assistance of a presumably in-the-closet gay chopper pilot (Luis Guzman) and his constant cleavage-bearing daughter (Vanessa Hudgens).
Of course, they crash land on the island and are almost immediately under attack by an overgrown lizard. Thank heaven that out of all the places to crash on this huge island, they landed right next to Zany Grandpa so he can save them. Phew!
Only further complicating the story is the all-of-a-sudden coincidence that the island is sinking into the ocean, leaving them a day or so to find a way out before eminent death. Wait! Wasn’t this the plot to Chipwrecked?!
Unless you love corny mindless kid’s flicks or are taking your own family, be prepared for a whole lot of lame wackiness and CG in Journey 2. Had Journey 2 been released when I was a kid, I would have loved it – but I’m now a grown man with taste, so the only joy it’s going to bring me is watching my daughter’s face light up when she watches it.
