Common Sense Media Review
By Jennifer Green
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Sequel repeats crass humor, language, heavy drinking.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 15+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
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Vacation Friends 2
What's the Story?
VACATION FRIENDS 2 reunites couples Ron (John Cena) and Kyla (Meredith Hagner), Marcus (Lil Rey Howery) and Emily (Yvonne Orji) -- this time in the Caribbean. Marcus has put everyone up at a resort, including Mexican friend Mauriliio (Carlos Santos). What the group doesn't know is that the room is actually paid for by a company Marcus is hoping to earn a construction contract with. As he tries to woo the Asian company's representatives, led by Yeon (Ronny Chieng), things start to unravel. Kyla's dad, Reese (Steve Buscemi), shows up on parole and gets involved in a nefarious plot involving a gang of Caribbean drug lords.
Is It Any Good?
Though fans of the prequel might appreciate the return of this oddball quartet, the sequel lacks the novelty or the unpredictable humor of its predecessor. Vacation Friends 2 isn't for those easily offended -- by its crass content or its lazy storytelling. The film tries to repeat the formula in a different setting, bringing in the new character of Kyla's dad (a smarmy Buscemi) and bringing along a favorite from the earlier film -- hotel host Maurilio (Gentefied's Santos, one of the best parts about the movie). Maurilio's presence doesn't make any sense, but then neither does much else here. There are some laughs to be had, and with more ingenuity, a third installment could get back to the unexpected charm of the concept's original characters. Otherwise, vacation elsewhere.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how Vacation Friends 2 differs from its prequel, and what threads are repeated or carried on.
How would you describe each of the four main characters? Do they represent archetypes or stereotypes of any kind, in your opinion?
There is significant crude language and humor in this film. Do you feel it ever becomes inappropriate or offensive? Where is the limit, and why?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming : August 25, 2023
- Cast : Lil Rey Howery , John Cena , Steve Buscemi
- Director : Clay Tarver
- Studio : Hulu
- Genre : Comedy
- Topics : Friendship , Holidays
- Run time : 103 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : pervasive language, some sexual references and drug use
- Last updated : September 18, 2025
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