In the wake of its original film debut over 25 years ago, Nickelodeon stoked the fires of nostalgia with the release of “Good Burger 2” on Paramount+. Kenan Thompson returns as Dexter, a failed entrepreneur seeking solace at the beloved Good Burger joint, run by his steadfast friend Ed, played by Kel Mitchell. Ed’s refusal to sell out to corporate interests sets the stage for a comedic showdown against the scheming machinations of MegaCorp and its representative, Cecil, portrayed by Lil Rel Howery.
As Dexter’s misguided actions unwittingly lead to the sale of Good Burger to MegaCorp, the duo finds themselves in a struggle to reclaim their cherished establishment from the clutches of AI-driven capitalism. Along the way, familiar faces like Connie Muldoon and Roxanne make nostalgic appearances, weaving a tapestry of callbacks to the original film.
Kel Mitchell shines in his reprisal of Ed, delivering impeccable physical comedy that harks back to the first film. Meanwhile, Kenan Thompson’s portrayal of Dexter, though self-centered, adds depth to the comedic dynamic with his sarcastic quips and vocal flair. The chemistry between the two actors remains as vibrant as ever, grounding the film in its nostalgic roots.
While “Good Burger 2” delivers laughs aplenty and pays homage to its predecessor, it falls short in advancing the narrative beyond familiar territory. The subplot of Dexter’s manipulation of Ed feels underdeveloped, missing an opportunity for emotional depth amidst the hilarity.
Nevertheless, the film touches on themes of AI and corporate greed, serving as a lighthearted commentary on the dehumanizing effects of modern capitalism. Despite its shortcomings, “Good Burger 2” offers a sentimental journey filled with fun cameos and absurdity, catering to fans of the original while providing a few solid laughs along the way.