This sequel picks up 18 years later from the original and finds Elwood Blues being released from prison and trying to re-form his old band with new lead singer Mighty Mac replacing Jake. A road trip culminates with a battle of the bands against the Louisiana Gators led by B.B. King, Eric Clapton, Dr. John, and others. Elwood, the now lone "Blues Brother" finally released from prison, is once again enlisted by Sister Mary Stigmata in her latest crusade to raise funds for a children's hospital. Once again hitting the road to re-unite the band and win the big prize at the New Orleans Battle of the Bands, Elwood is pursued cross-country by the cops, led by Cabel the Curtis' son (and Elwood's step-brother), the Russian Mafia, and a militia group. On his new "mission from God" Elwood enlists the help of a young orphan, and a strip club bartender. See my title? Now that is a really poor joke, but I hate to say still better and more amusing than this film. I have put this review may contain spoilers, but I am not sure how I can really spoil something so appalling.<br/><br/>Music, yes it has music and it is OK. I was most fascinated to hear a hyped up Gospel rendition of "John the Revelator" a much beloved tune for me from The Sons of Anarchy.<br/><br/>Does the Blue Brothers 2000 have a plot? Not that I noticed, it seemed to be mostly a vehicle to fit in as many possible cameo performances from The Blues Brothers.<br/><br/>If you look at the full cast list and see that they managed to destroy 1 more car than the original Blues Brothers film you have to ask this question; Was someone at studio production stone deaf and at a business lunch misunderstood a conversation in which they thought someone said "The Blues Brothers were great too…" to which they said "Yes…." and then thought they were signing for lunch? <br/><br/>It is said that this film lost $14 Million. I'm shocked the loss was really that small. A wonderful film, not so much for the story (rehash of the 1980 version) but for the music. All the major music names are there and the final song is a must-see. Includes Blues Brothers, BB King, Eric Clapton, Isaac Hayes, Lou Rawls, Cab Calloway, Aretha Franklin, James Brown and many, many, other great names in R&B. I liked the Love Connection (illustrates what can be hidden behind a soothing voice!), Mousette's Funky tunes, and Louisiana's French touch. Bonifant's is fine as a stray kid (pity he can't play the harmonica as well as shown) and Goodman makes easily up for Belushi's absence(John, rest in peace). Nia Peeples, although miscast as a cop, is a cute addition and her final dance number (who wouldn't dance to this tune?) is neat.<br/><br/>I am sure Dan and John made this film more as a way to put the music out, than as a film. It is a sort of a music dedication to the major R&B players for the masses who may not go actively to R&B performances. The previous version had rough language, while this one is fine with kids, who like the chase scenes.
Raymijasin replied
365 weeks ago