Ben Stiller Believes ‘Zoolander 2’ Is His Most MIsunderstood Movie

by

As someone who has grown up with Ben Stiller‘s iconic comedies gracing our screens, I have to say that my personal favorite misinterpreted masterpiece would undeniably be “Zoolander 2”. While it’s easy to understand why some might view it as a rehash of the original, I believe it carries a unique charm and humor that resonates with fans who appreciate Stiller’s quirky style.

Ben Stiller has been involved in numerous films throughout his career, some of which have received mixed reviews from critics. However, when it comes to a film that he feels the critics misunderstood? That would be “Zoolander 2”. In 2016, Stiller reappeared as the male supermodel character Derek Zoolander in this sequel, a role he also directed and co-wrote. Despite being made with a budget of $55 million, the movie fell short at the box office, earning only $56 million in ticket sales.

In seven instances, the Golden Raspberry Awards recognized Zoolander 2. However, this film was generally criticized by both critics and fans alike, being considered as merely a reiteration of the original movie. In the storyline, Ben Stiller’s character meets up with Owen Wilson’s Hansel McDonald once more following years in isolation. The duo then collaborates with Valentina Valencia (Penélope Cruz) to thwart an individual attempting to assassinate the world’s most attractive people. On Rotten Tomatoes, the sequel boasts a 22% approval rating from critics and even lower support from fans at 20%.

In a recent episode of Hot Ones, Stiller was questioned by host Sean Evans about the film of his career that he feels was most misunderstood or unfairly criticized. At 59, Stiller admitted it’s tough to fathom what moviegoers are thinking, but he ultimately chose Zoolander 2, finding it hard to believe “it was that bad.

“Analyzing why critics have positive or negative reactions towards something can be quite challenging. I find myself taken aback when critics praise something and equally surprised when they pan it, as opinions on art can be so individual. For instance, I was taken aback by the criticism Zoolander 2 received. It’s difficult for me to understand why people didn’t seem to enjoy it as much as I did. Maybe my perspective is skewed, but I find it hard to believe that it was that bad.

Ben Stiller Will Reprise Another One of His Most Iconic Roles

Although Stiller has moved on from Derek Zoolander, there’s one character he can’t seem to let go – Greg Focker from the “Meet the Parents” series. Exciting news for fans, as a fourth installment in the franchise is underway and will bring Stiller back into the role once more. Additionally, it has been confirmed that Robert De Niro will reprise his role as Jack Byrnes, Greg’s father-in-law.

As a seasoned movie connoisseur, I’m thrilled to share some intriguing insights about the upcoming sequel. Unlike its predecessor, the details surrounding this new chapter remain shrouded in mystery, save for the reassuring presence of Terri Polo and Blythe Danner reprising their roles. John Hamburg, who has been instrumental in crafting the previous installments, is back to script the next act. With a decade-and-a-half gap since the last movie, it’s intriguing to speculate that the narrative may see a role reversal, with Ben Stiller stepping into some of Robert De Niro’s shoes from the first film, taking on a more cautious stance regarding his children’s romantic entanglements. Stay tuned for further updates!

Currently, Stiller is featured in the upcoming films “Nutcrackers” for 2024 and Jack Black’s comedy titled “Dear Santa.” He will then star in the highly anticipated sequel to “Happy Gilmore,” set to premiere on Netflix in 2025. Furthermore, he will be seen in Season 2 of “Severance,” which is scheduled for release on January 17. You can watch “Zoolander” now on Prime Video and “Zoolander 2” on MGM+.

Read More

2024-12-27 22:33