It’s A Wonderful Binge is a 2022 Christmas comedy movie that revolves around the two best buddies, Andrew and Hags, and their wild and unrestrained adventures. The film is a sequel to The Binge and shifts its premise to the Holiday while keeping all the comical elements intact. Moreover, the flick is directed by and written by Jordan VanDina and stars Eduardo Franco and Dexter Darden in the lead roles.
The complete cast of the film includes Kaitlin Olson as Mayor Spengler, Danny Trejo as Angel, Patty Guggenheim as Delray Donna, Nick Swardson as Uncle Kris, Paul Scheer, Tim Meadows, Adam Herschman, Max Malas, Rock Kohli, Tamika Simpkins and Connie Shi. Furthermore, Andrew Huebscher serves as the cinematographer while Daniel Reitzenstein heads the editing department.
-It’s A Wonderful Binge Review Does Not Contain Spoilers-
The movie starts with the buddy duo of Andrew (Eduardo Franco) and Hags (Dexter Darden), busy in their own senseless yet enjoyable drama until both of them get involved in their respective issues. Hags (the smarter of the two), decides to finally propose to his longtime girlfriend Sarah, and take his dating career a step ahead.
However, hesitation becomes a big rock in his path, as he lacks the courage to ask out Sarah with a ring. On the other hand, much more free-minded Andrew has his own share of problems that revolve around his family and girlfriend Kimmy. Most of these add a comic element to the story and fluctuate back and forth.
The storyline of It’s A Wonderful Binge is a repeated tale of best friends rediscovering the innate joy of their life, by going absolutely crazy. The film is filled with several rollercoaster moments that will definitely crack you up (including the first encounter with Angel), and leave you with a mixed bag of emotions. For the most part, it feels like a lighthearted flick with a heavy dose of humour, but as a whole, the film lacks the convincing element of comedy.
For instance, Superbad, The 40-Year-Old Virgin or any other Judd Apatow movies, feel so extraordinarily cheerful, is because of the relatable and natural characters. Stuff that crosses the bar of stupidity, but finds its feet intact in the logic. Moreover, the end result of such an experiment is often a combination of smart, delightful and heartwarmingly hilarious happenstance. Something which this film lacks entirely.
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Even though it’s hard to put the entire blame for the failing buddy comedies genre on this film, it is necessary to point out the missing nuance. Which, if otherwise added, would have surely produced a classic, to be remembered for years to come. But instead, we have to compromise with a one-time watch that carries the potential, but never uses it.
If there’s one thing that stands out more than anything in the movie, it’s Danny Trejo’s amazing portrayal of Angel. It feels good and refreshing to see him in a comic avatar (a space where he can do a lot more) and nail it to perfection.
It’s A Wonderful Binge Final Thoughts
If you are looking for a casual comedy flick this holiday season, then you can definitely watch this movie. However, I suggest you do not take heavy expectations during this not-so-wonderful Binge.
You can stream it on Hulu. Let us know your thoughts about it in the comment section below.
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