With over half a billion dollars in the bank from the original movie, it was inevitable that a sequel to 2012’s Ted was always going to happen. Voiced, written and directed by Family Guy creator, Seth MacFarlane, make no mistake about it, Ted 2 is an acquired taste. If you’re idea of fun includes running gags about black cocks, butt cracks and Mark Wahlberg covered in semen, then this is right up your street. However, if the thought of the above combined with a conversation about fuck me eyes and god knows what else makes you shiver with hatred, then walk away.
With a story that is less than inspired to say the least, Ted and his new wife Tami-Lynn (Jessica Barth) want to have a baby. But as Ted is lacking in the baby making equipment, they have to adopt. However, it turns out that Ted isn’t classed as human by the state, instead he’s recognised as a piece of property. As a result, along with John (Mark Wahlberg) and Samantha (Amanda Seyfried) they sue to government for Ted’s civil rights.
While the idea for the sequel is weak, (the same bad guy again is a bit lazy to be fair, especially towards the end) it more than delivers with the laughs. The gags come thick and fast, and while some of them land quite wide of the mark, you’re never too far away from genuine laugh out loud moment. There is scene involving an improv comedy troupe and while it’s in very poor taste, it’s phenomenally funny, and something that only Seth MacFarlane could come up with.
The cast, while not breaking much of a sweat here, all seem to have an absolute blast here. Wahlberg settles back into the role of John instantly, and while his love life or lack of side story is a little contrived and dragged out, he’s still very watchable. Amanda Seyfried, while never convincing as a junior lawyer, is funny and very charming. And speaking of charming, Ted (voiced and mo-capped by MacFarlane) is as “delightful” as ever.
Ted 2, while having a weak and predictable story, brings enough laughs and has some rather inspired cameos, which add to the hilarity. MacFarlane haters need not apply, but for the rest of us, Ted 2 is definitely worth a punt!
