Going In: The original Dumb and Dumber is one of my favorite comedic films of all time. It solidified Jim Carrey as a star, and introduced the world to the absurd hilarity of The Farrelly Brothers. I saw the original film no less than five times in a movie theater, and to this day I still have the majority of its lines memorized. That being said, the Farrellys haven’t made a great film since 1998’s There’s Something about Mary and this reeks of a desperate attempt to cash-in on the popularity of their original hit. I’m expecting to be disappointed by Dumb and Dumber To, but hopeful that I can still be entertained by the misadventures of Harry and Lloyd. Review: I waited two full days to write this review after seeing the film. Walking out I was definitely disappointed, but in the last 48 hours I’ve found myself fondly remembering some of the puns and even quoting a few of the lines. This doesn’t mean it compares well with the original, but it’s not a completely disposable experience. First of all, this is easily the best movie the Farrelly Brothers have made in a decade. It’s obvious they wanted to recreate the magic of the first Dumb and Dumber film, and they went to great lengths to do so. There are cameos from the first film (including people, props, and locations), a very familiar plot (it’s practically the same story, down to one antagonist traveling with them and meeting a similar fate), a fantasy dream sequence, and even recycled songs from the original’s soundtrack. At times it feels like a cheap rip-off of the real thing, but it’s hard to fault the filmmakers for copying themselves. The real reason I wanted to see this redux is for the actors: Jim Carrey as Lloyd Christmas, and Jeff Daniels as Harry Dunne. I’m so glad to say that these guys immediately feel back at home in these roles. Sure, the jokes are dumber this time around (seriously), but boy do the actors throw themselves into the parts in an effort to sell the humor. Their character’s chemistry is as strong as ever, and I really have no complaints about their performances. I will say that I hope this movie is a reminder to the world of just how funny and talented Jim Carrey is. Taking nothing away from Jeff Daniels who is hilarious in his role, this movie really made me miss the Jim Carrey comedies from the 90s. It’s also great seeing Jeff Daniels enjoy himself after his career has steered him into more serious roles. If you choose to watch this film, these two guys should be the reason. Much of the humor here is in line with the original film. It’s gloriously dumb, and that’s ok. Unfortunately, there are a number of gags that simply fall flat. I’m talking groan-inducing, face-palming, embarrassing misses in humor. The 1994 film didn’t suffer from such issues – it’s writing was sharper and much much funnier. Some of the jokes here feel like the writing team is simply trying too hard, as many comedies do. The problem is that the humor just isn’t as fresh as it was two decades ago. That’s not to say it’s all bad though. There are a ridiculous number of puns delivered at a rapid fire pace throughout the entirety of the film, and I know I’ll catch additional jokes by re-watching the film (if I dare). The supporting cast is entertaining as well. Rob Riggle is great playing twin brother antagonists, and Rachel Melvin is hilarious as the dim-witted daughter Harry is searching for (he needs a kidney!). Laurie Holden and Kathleen Turner (yes, that Kathleen Turner) get in on the fun too. Anyone with fond memories of the original film will find something to laugh at here, but if you weren’t a fan of the ’94 film you’ll surely wonder what all the fuss is about. This is a tough film to recommend because it literally does nothing better than the original movie. There’s honestly no reason for this one to exist, other than to take my money. There are some surprises in the story that I appreciated, some great nods to the first film, and some funny performances, but nothing is truly noteworthy. Here’s what it comes down to: This is an imitation of a great comedy – one that I loved 20 years ago. Rated PG-13 for continuing to terrorize poor Billy in 4C Dumb and Dumber To ReviewSadly, I did not "Like it a Lot" - My review score did continue to raise as I wrote the review though. I'm probably crazy, but I want to see it again!Storytelling6Craftsmanship6.5Performances7.5Satisfaction5.5The GoodLloyd and Harry are back!Some 'punny' dialogueSurprisingly cohesive storyThe Bad/UglyToo many jokes fall flatBad imitation of first filmIt's pretty dumb, ok6.4Overall ScoreReader Rating: (1 Vote)1.5 Sox I laughed more at the trailer for “Horrible Bosses 2”, than I did during entirety of this turd-burger. The best thing I can say for it was, it didn’t actually make me ANGRY. I mean, I could see they were trying for… I can imagine the jokes looked funny on paper. And (to be totally fair), every actor except Jim Carrey and Jeff Daniels were pretty decent. Overall, the best compliment I can give to “Dumb and Dumber To” is that it’s not as bad as “Showgirls”… In the same way herpes isn’t as bad as cancer. If you find yourself tempted to see this movie, take a deep breath, count to ten, and then buy a ticket to see “John Wick” instead. http://mastercritic.com/ Tim This is why I warn that those unfamiliar with the first film will wonder what they’ve gotten themselves into. It’s definitely a film made for fans of the original. I can completely agree with Sox that the Horrible Bosses 2 trailer is funnier than the movie though 🙂