Review of Disney’s “Freakier Friday” Sequel Shows it Really Rocks
“Freakier Friday,” the sequel to the classic 2003 body-swapping comedy starring Lindsay Lohan and Jamie Lee Curtis, brings a fresh wave of humor and excitement. Watching this film was a game-changer for me, as it solidified my newfound appreciation for the two movies featuring Lohan and Curtis. Curtis’ humorous portrayal of waking up as a teenager in her step-grandmother’s body and the addition of quirky characters like the fortune teller played by Vanessa Bayer create a perfect blend of wackiness and laughter.
Returning to the big screen after 22 years, “Freakier Friday” features two adults and two teens at the center of all the body-switching pandemonium. The star-studded cast includes Lohan as a pop star manager and single mom Anna, Curtis as Tess, the doting psychologist grandma to Anna’s daughter Harper (Julia Butters), and many more entertaining characters like Anna’s chef fiancé, Eric (Manny Jacinto), and Eric’s daughter, Lily (Sophia Hammons). With the family gearing up for a major decision about a potential move to London, tensions rise as Lily and Harper, who despise each other, find themselves in a position to break up their parents after swapping bodies.
While I didn’t grow up watching “Freaky Friday,” I recognized the charm of the original 2003 film. Lohan’s portrayal of Anna as a cool punk rocker, struggling with her mom’s inability to connect with her, and issues at school create a relatable storyline. The body-switching element between Anna and Tess sheds light on what they were missing about each other. In “Freakier Friday,” the now-teenaged Anna sees her rockstar mom in a new light, realizing how extraordinary her mother truly is. The film paints a cringy picture of teenage life, emphasizing issues like triggers, gluten-free diets, and the complexities of parent-teen relationships.
The sequel is peppered with references to the first movie, adding a layer of nostalgia to the storyline. Notable mentions include the return of heartthrob Jake’s infatuation with a former character and comically exaggerated body-switch reveals. Lohan and Curtis bring undeniable energy to the film, breathing new life into familiar jokes. However, the abundance of cameos and nods to the original movie might overwhelm some viewers, making it a challenging task to catch every reference in one viewing.
The core of “Freakier Friday” lies in the dynamics between two troubled teen girls, making the plot fresh and engaging. Lohan and Curtis shine as they venture into the teenage world, delivering comedic brilliance and heartwarming moments. While the film’s conclusion feels rushed, the underlying message of empathy and understanding leaves a lasting impact. Lohan’s return to music, coupled with Curtis’ comedic timing, elevates the movie, making it a delightful watch for fans of the original film and newcomers alike.