Common Sense Media Review
By Jeffrey Anderson
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Vulgar little bear is back, with big ideas and crude humor.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 17+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Ted 2
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 24 parent reviews
Parents say that this sequel is filled with crude humor, strong language, and inappropriate adult themes, making it unsuitable for young children but potentially entertaining for teenagers and adults. While some consider it funnier than the first film, others criticize its pacing and vulgar content, suggesting it may not be appropriate for anyone under 15.
- suitable for teens
- crude humor
- pacing issues
- not for children
- funnier sequel
Summarized with AI
Based on 36 kid reviews
Kids say this sequel is a crude yet humorous continuation of the original film, but many reviewers note it lacks the charm and comedic impact of its predecessor. There's a consensus that the movie is replete with strong language, sexual humor, and drug references, making it inappropriate for younger audiences, although some find its heartwarming elements enjoyable.
- crude humor
- strong language
- not for kids
- less funny
- heartwarming elements
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
After the events of Ted, Ted (voiced by Seth MacFarlane), marries the love of his life, Tami-Lynn (Jessica Barth). But when they try to adopt a child, the government becomes aware that Ted isn't technically a real person. He loses his job and all his personal documents, and his marriage is annulled. So he and best pal, John (Mark Wahlberg), hire a lawyer -- the pretty, pot-smoking Samantha (Amanda Seyfried) -- to contest the situation as a civil rights violation. John (who's now divorced) becomes attracted to Samantha along the way. But it's not an easy fight, and the trio must head to New York for reinforcements. Unfortunately, the creepy Donny (Giovanni Ribisi) has cooked up another evil plan to get a Ted of his own.
Is It Any Good?
When Ted first came out, it surprised audiences by being touching as well as funny; the sequel one ups it by being funny and touching and boasting some big ideas. Written and directed by MacFarlane, TED 2 is extremely vulgar, filled with foul language and sexual innuendo, but it's not mean-spirited. It goes for comic rhythm rather than shock value, and the humor rises from the characters, their friendships, and their personalities.
True to MacFarlane's previous works, it's still filled with pop culture references, but they're much cleverer than usual; they're worked into the fabric of the well-structured story rather than just haphazardly dropped in. But the real extra touch here is the film's Mr. Smith Goes to Washington-like sense of social justice. There are impassioned speeches about civil rights, which are clearly meant to mirror (and comment upon) current political conversations. In other words, Ted 2 is smarter than the average summer comedy.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about Ted 2's strong sexual content. Why is sex so funny to these characters? How much sexual content in media is OK for kids?
Why do these characters drink and use drugs so frequently? Are they doing it for enjoyment or from need? What are the real-life consequences of substance use/abuse? Are those consequences clear in the movie?
Do you think that Ted qualifies as a person? What are the qualities of a real person? Does he or she need to be a role model? What are some other groups who, past or present, have sought equal rights in our society?
How did you feel about the bullies in the movie? Are they funny? Mean?
Movie Details
- In theaters : June 26, 2015
- On DVD or streaming : December 15, 2015
- Cast : Mark Wahlberg , Seth MacFarlane , Amanda Seyfried
- Director : Seth MacFarlane
- Studio : Universal Pictures
- Genre : Comedy
- Run time : 115 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : crude and sexual content, pervasive language, and some drug use
- Last updated : December 15, 2025
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