Ah, “Son of the Mask.” Where do we even begin with this cinematic… “gem”? I’ve seen my fair share of bad movies. But every once in a while, a film comes along that is so absurdly bad, it’s almost good. Almost.
Released in 2005 as a sequel to the 1994 Jim Carrey classic “The Mask,” this film had some big shoes to fill. And boy, did it trip over those shoes, tumble down a flight of stairs, and land face-first into a pie. The original “The Mask” was a zany, over-the-top comedy that showcased Carrey’s comedic genius. “Son of the Mask,” on the other hand, felt like a fever dream concocted after consuming too much expired candy.
Firstly, let’s talk about the plot. The Mask’s magical powers are now bestowed upon an aspiring cartoonist, his wife, and their baby. Yes, you read that right. A baby. With god-like powers. The result? A series of bizarre, often cringe-worthy sequences that make you question the sanity of everyone involved in the production. From dancing babies to a strangely aggressive dog, the film throws everything at the wall, hoping something sticks. Spoiler alert: nothing does.
The performances are… well, let’s just say they’re memorable for all the wrong reasons. While Jamie Kennedy tries his best to channel the manic energy of Carrey, he often comes off as a poor man’s imitation. And the less said about the CGI baby, the better. It’s the stuff of nightmares.
Amidst the chaos and absurdity, there’s a glimmer of hope in the form of Traylor Howard. Portraying the role of Tonya Avery, the wife of the protagonist, Howard brings a certain charm and sincerity to the film.
In a movie filled with over-the-top antics and questionable CGI, her grounded performance stands out. It’s clear that Howard is giving it her all, trying to bring some semblance of reality and emotion to the whirlwind of madness surrounding her. While the film itself may be a jumbled mess, Howard’s valiant effort deserves applause. It’s a testament to her acting prowess that she manages to shine in a movie that, for the most part, feels like it’s spiraling out of control.
But perhaps the most baffling aspect of “Son of the Mask” is its tone. It can’t decide if it’s a kids’ movie, a family comedy, or a horror film. One moment, you’re watching slapstick humor, and the next, there’s a genuinely terrifying scene that seems better suited for a Stephen King adaptation.
In conclusion, “Son of the Mask” is a masterclass in how not to make a sequel. It’s a wild, disjointed ride that leaves you wondering if the filmmakers were in on the joke or if the joke was on us. But for lovers of so-bad-it’s-good cinema, it’s a must-watch. Just make sure to keep the lights on. You know, because of that CGI baby.
