15 reviews
Canadian filmmaker Michael Dowse made his feature-length debut in 2002 with "Fubar", a cult hit mockumentary about two Alberta headbangers played by Paul Spence and David Lawrence. When I first saw that movie in 2005, I didn't think it was bad, but it wasn't exactly what I was expecting, and may have left me a bit puzzled. I have watched it again twice since then, and I definitely thought it was better during those two viewings, good enough to make me interested in seeing this sequel when I heard about it. The only movie I saw in theatres in 2010 was Tim Burton's version of "Alice in Wonderland", which I didn't even like. I didn't see "Fubar II" on the silver screen, but have since seen it on DVD, and now think both "Fubar" films are pretty funny.
It appears Dean Murdoch has now been free of testicular cancer for five years, but he and his friend, Terry Cahill, are continuing their self-destructive partying lifestyle. At a party to celebrate Dean's five post-cancer years, Terry is informed by Tron, the duo's friend and "party leader," that they could make a lot of money working with him as oil pipeliners in Fort McMurray. During this conversation outside, Dean happens to be wasted in his bedroom and accidentally sets the place on fire, so he has to be rescued from the house as it is destroyed! The now homeless Dean and Terry then head up north to start their pipeline laying jobs. It isn't long before they begin to receive their high wages, putting an end to their financial trouble. They soon meet Trish, a local strip bar waitress whom every member of the pipeline crew claims to have had sex with! Terry begins to date this woman, and seems to be getting into a serious relationship with her, but this ends up threatening his longtime friendship with Dean.
The 2002 mockumentary features lots of raunchiness, insanity, and bizarre dialogue, and in case you were wondering, none of this has changed in the sequel! It didn't have me consistently laughing throughout, but I sure did find a lot of laughs, some bigger than others, and when the antics of the characters weren't quite enough to make me laugh, I think I was usually still smiling. With all the rapid dialogue, I'm sure I didn't catch all the jokes (I think that's been the case every time I've seen the original "Fubar"), but certainly still caught a lot of them, and the dialogue is very often the reason for the laughs, which is good, since it's such a major part of the humour. There may have been parts around the beginning which made it look to me like this sequel was going to be inferior to the original, but this didn't last long, and viewers may find some surprises later in the plot. David Lawrence (Terry) and Paul Spence (Dean) again put on good comical performances as the two leads, and another cast highlight is singer Terra Hazelton making her film acting debut as the Trish character. The arguments Terry and Trish have are definitely among the parts of this sequel that made me laugh.
It seems that movie sequels usually aren't as well liked as their predecessors, and maybe that's the case with this one, but I'm still rating it a seven out of ten, the same rating I gave the original. After watching "Fubar" for the first time, I knew what to expect during my second and third viewings, which was probably the main reason why it was funnier with those subsequent viewings. Even though it took eight years for this sequel to come, I was still expecting "Fubar II" to be a very similar idea to Michael Dowse's 2002 feature-length debut, which it is, and as such, it did not disappoint me. If you saw the original "Fubar" and didn't like it at all or were maybe even disgusted by it, I can't think of any reason why you wouldn't feel any differently about this 2010 sequel, so I suggest you avoid it at all costs. However, for the fans of the cult hit from eight years earlier, I really think this sequel to it is well worth checking out.
It appears Dean Murdoch has now been free of testicular cancer for five years, but he and his friend, Terry Cahill, are continuing their self-destructive partying lifestyle. At a party to celebrate Dean's five post-cancer years, Terry is informed by Tron, the duo's friend and "party leader," that they could make a lot of money working with him as oil pipeliners in Fort McMurray. During this conversation outside, Dean happens to be wasted in his bedroom and accidentally sets the place on fire, so he has to be rescued from the house as it is destroyed! The now homeless Dean and Terry then head up north to start their pipeline laying jobs. It isn't long before they begin to receive their high wages, putting an end to their financial trouble. They soon meet Trish, a local strip bar waitress whom every member of the pipeline crew claims to have had sex with! Terry begins to date this woman, and seems to be getting into a serious relationship with her, but this ends up threatening his longtime friendship with Dean.
The 2002 mockumentary features lots of raunchiness, insanity, and bizarre dialogue, and in case you were wondering, none of this has changed in the sequel! It didn't have me consistently laughing throughout, but I sure did find a lot of laughs, some bigger than others, and when the antics of the characters weren't quite enough to make me laugh, I think I was usually still smiling. With all the rapid dialogue, I'm sure I didn't catch all the jokes (I think that's been the case every time I've seen the original "Fubar"), but certainly still caught a lot of them, and the dialogue is very often the reason for the laughs, which is good, since it's such a major part of the humour. There may have been parts around the beginning which made it look to me like this sequel was going to be inferior to the original, but this didn't last long, and viewers may find some surprises later in the plot. David Lawrence (Terry) and Paul Spence (Dean) again put on good comical performances as the two leads, and another cast highlight is singer Terra Hazelton making her film acting debut as the Trish character. The arguments Terry and Trish have are definitely among the parts of this sequel that made me laugh.
It seems that movie sequels usually aren't as well liked as their predecessors, and maybe that's the case with this one, but I'm still rating it a seven out of ten, the same rating I gave the original. After watching "Fubar" for the first time, I knew what to expect during my second and third viewings, which was probably the main reason why it was funnier with those subsequent viewings. Even though it took eight years for this sequel to come, I was still expecting "Fubar II" to be a very similar idea to Michael Dowse's 2002 feature-length debut, which it is, and as such, it did not disappoint me. If you saw the original "Fubar" and didn't like it at all or were maybe even disgusted by it, I can't think of any reason why you wouldn't feel any differently about this 2010 sequel, so I suggest you avoid it at all costs. However, for the fans of the cult hit from eight years earlier, I really think this sequel to it is well worth checking out.
- Beta_Gallinger
- Jan 31, 2011
- Permalink
I'm a big fan of the original, so naturally i was quite sceptical going into this film.In a lot of sequels the characters are being exploited for the sake of gags and to disguise a lack of story. in this case it was the opposite, because the story here feels much more prominent and thought through than in part 1, which is a good thing. it took a while to get into at first, but as soon as the 2 start their new job, i really started to enjoy this film. the characters (especially "Tron"), atmosphere, development and especially the finale really drew me in and made me laugh out loud. it also pulls it off to be really funny and a feel-good movie at the same time, without ever feeling forced or cheesy.the "more than a feeling" scene had me in tears (of laughter).
not even sure, which one part i like better now - maybe because i've seen the first one too many times already. good job - i give it 7,5 out of 10.
not even sure, which one part i like better now - maybe because i've seen the first one too many times already. good job - i give it 7,5 out of 10.
Terry Cahill and Dean Murdoch are idiot slackers, head-banging best friends in Calgary. Dean is 5 years cancer free and a deadbeat dad. They get evicted and head out to Fort McMurray to make some money. Their friend Tron is dismayed to take them on his work crew. The boys drink and go to the strip club. Terry starts dating barmaid Trish. Dean works the workers' comp angle. His cancer's back to take his other testicle.
Other than being a deadbeat dad, the guys have created a great pair of characters. At least, the ex-wife seems at peace with him. They do need somebody to give the production some structure and better comedy. It does ramble around as the story lacks a driving plot. The boys would probably work better as a half hour comedy TV show. They are fun in smaller doses.
Other than being a deadbeat dad, the guys have created a great pair of characters. At least, the ex-wife seems at peace with him. They do need somebody to give the production some structure and better comedy. It does ramble around as the story lacks a driving plot. The boys would probably work better as a half hour comedy TV show. They are fun in smaller doses.
- SnoopyStyle
- Aug 1, 2017
- Permalink
I admit, I was very much looking forward to this sequel as I was a fan of the first. I will admit that although I did enjoy this film, it did feel a bit lacking. Perhaps I was hoping for more of a documentary approach as its predecessor had. That aside however, the movie did deliver some laughs and enjoyment and it was nice to see the duo of Terry and Deaner back together again. It's also note worthy that a lot of the dialogue was improvised which adds to the genuine feel of the characters which in turn gives the film a more natural and fluid feel.
Another thing I found quite interesting was the footage of the Oil Sands where the two secured employment. Now, I am far from being an environmentalist but, even in the few shot, you could see how disgusting that area is. I realize that this place keeps a lot of Canadians employed but the environmental impact (just by seeing all the emissions from the area) has to be severely negative.
Bottom Line: This film is recommended to those of you with a silly sense of humour, viewers who are simply looking for some light hearted laughter.
Another thing I found quite interesting was the footage of the Oil Sands where the two secured employment. Now, I am far from being an environmentalist but, even in the few shot, you could see how disgusting that area is. I realize that this place keeps a lot of Canadians employed but the environmental impact (just by seeing all the emissions from the area) has to be severely negative.
Bottom Line: This film is recommended to those of you with a silly sense of humour, viewers who are simply looking for some light hearted laughter.
If you have been watching this movie, I assume that you saw the first Fubar as well. Otherwise you would probably miss out on a lot of details that are useful for the entertainment of this sequel.
The main thing about this movie, in contrast to the first Fubar, is that the concept has changed. This is no longer a mockumentary of the decadent Headbangers Dean and Terry, but instead it evolves into a regular acting-movie. Which is an idea that I absolutely can cope with. Too often you see the sequels of various films just copying the concept right off (The Paranormal Activity-series is a perfect example of just that) and rarely leaving any space for innovation and fresh ideas.
Fubar II is just the opposite of the average half-ass sequel! By turning the concept of Fubar into a sort of regular movie (with some moments of documentary-like filming) they automatically gained room for more than just the perspective of one persons eyes. We can follow the plot through multiple angles and everything melts together perfectly! The head actors David Lawrence and Paul Spence are keeping the cemented picture of Dean and Terry true to it's origin, and these two characters fits perfect for the plot in this film.
Basically, the story begins with a house party that goes out of control in every way. Everything except for Dean and Terry has changed in the past ten years, they are still the same decadent Headbangers that love to party and sees no need for a life better than the one they already have... Until their house burns down. Their old friend "Tron", in his drunken haze, offers them employment at an oil-plant in Fort McMurray, also referred to as "The Mac", in northern Canada.
The two Headbangers immediately set off to work at 'The Mac' the morning after and there they meet a not-very-happy to see them 'Tron'. Either way, they manage to find themselves working and finally making the big bucks.
I feel no need to further guide you through the story, as this is a review and not the back of a DVD-box.
Great acting, many laughable moments and in general a great movie, enjoyable for most people blessed with a sense of humor. It's original, ironic and at times emotional. If you liked the first Fubar, you will definitely enjoy this sequel.
The main thing about this movie, in contrast to the first Fubar, is that the concept has changed. This is no longer a mockumentary of the decadent Headbangers Dean and Terry, but instead it evolves into a regular acting-movie. Which is an idea that I absolutely can cope with. Too often you see the sequels of various films just copying the concept right off (The Paranormal Activity-series is a perfect example of just that) and rarely leaving any space for innovation and fresh ideas.
Fubar II is just the opposite of the average half-ass sequel! By turning the concept of Fubar into a sort of regular movie (with some moments of documentary-like filming) they automatically gained room for more than just the perspective of one persons eyes. We can follow the plot through multiple angles and everything melts together perfectly! The head actors David Lawrence and Paul Spence are keeping the cemented picture of Dean and Terry true to it's origin, and these two characters fits perfect for the plot in this film.
Basically, the story begins with a house party that goes out of control in every way. Everything except for Dean and Terry has changed in the past ten years, they are still the same decadent Headbangers that love to party and sees no need for a life better than the one they already have... Until their house burns down. Their old friend "Tron", in his drunken haze, offers them employment at an oil-plant in Fort McMurray, also referred to as "The Mac", in northern Canada.
The two Headbangers immediately set off to work at 'The Mac' the morning after and there they meet a not-very-happy to see them 'Tron'. Either way, they manage to find themselves working and finally making the big bucks.
I feel no need to further guide you through the story, as this is a review and not the back of a DVD-box.
Great acting, many laughable moments and in general a great movie, enjoyable for most people blessed with a sense of humor. It's original, ironic and at times emotional. If you liked the first Fubar, you will definitely enjoy this sequel.
- wolvesguardmycoffin
- Feb 11, 2012
- Permalink
Being a big fan of the original FUBAR (2002), I was surprised to find out that there was a sequel released all the way back in 2010 that I hadn't heard of.
After watching this, I'm conflicted: I'm glad I watched it, and I', glad they were able to get it made and released, but it's a hell of a lot darker than I expected. Now, if you go and re-watch 2002's FUBAR (if you need to), you'll realize it may be darker at times, than you remembered, but this went a bit farther. Did that ruin it for me? No, not really, but I didn't enjoy it as much as I had expected to - but that's probably on me. I was glad to see Terry and Deaner back on the screen, for sure, and there were a few points that made me laugh out loud, as a well as a surprise or two.
After watching this, I'm conflicted: I'm glad I watched it, and I', glad they were able to get it made and released, but it's a hell of a lot darker than I expected. Now, if you go and re-watch 2002's FUBAR (if you need to), you'll realize it may be darker at times, than you remembered, but this went a bit farther. Did that ruin it for me? No, not really, but I didn't enjoy it as much as I had expected to - but that's probably on me. I was glad to see Terry and Deaner back on the screen, for sure, and there were a few points that made me laugh out loud, as a well as a surprise or two.
- catfishman
- Feb 25, 2022
- Permalink
Alright, just having seen "Fubar II", I wasn't aware of it being a sequel, as the DVD I got hold of was titled "Fubar: Balls to the Wall". So I am not sure how badly you needed to have seen the first one in order to fully appreciate the sequel.
I must say that this particular movie is somewhat of an acquired taste. I had initially expected more comedy from it, but that wasn't to be. The movie did, however, have lots of irony, sarcasm and witty dialogue. Plus the quirky characters really helped the movie along as well.
I actually don't think I laughed a single time throughout this entire movie, which is why I am only giving it a 4/10 rating.
The story itself was actually decent enough, though bordering on being a bit too extreme. However, what helped make the movie bearable to watch was the quirky extremes of the characters in the movie. The two main characters Terry (played by David Lawrence) and Dean (played by Paul Spence) were like live-action-rendering of Beavis and Butthead. Most funny was the likeness they had to some of the people that I actually know.
The movie was nicely shot, great camera work and some really good places and locations used for filming.
However, labeled as comedy, but being unable to even bring a smirk to my lips, this movie was somewhat of a disappointment to me. Or as I said earlier, something of an acquired taste - which wasn't particularly my taste, though. I assume you have to have a particular mentality in order to fully appreciate this movie, and I am sure that there is an audience out there for it somewhere, I just am not part of that particular audience.
I must say that this particular movie is somewhat of an acquired taste. I had initially expected more comedy from it, but that wasn't to be. The movie did, however, have lots of irony, sarcasm and witty dialogue. Plus the quirky characters really helped the movie along as well.
I actually don't think I laughed a single time throughout this entire movie, which is why I am only giving it a 4/10 rating.
The story itself was actually decent enough, though bordering on being a bit too extreme. However, what helped make the movie bearable to watch was the quirky extremes of the characters in the movie. The two main characters Terry (played by David Lawrence) and Dean (played by Paul Spence) were like live-action-rendering of Beavis and Butthead. Most funny was the likeness they had to some of the people that I actually know.
The movie was nicely shot, great camera work and some really good places and locations used for filming.
However, labeled as comedy, but being unable to even bring a smirk to my lips, this movie was somewhat of a disappointment to me. Or as I said earlier, something of an acquired taste - which wasn't particularly my taste, though. I assume you have to have a particular mentality in order to fully appreciate this movie, and I am sure that there is an audience out there for it somewhere, I just am not part of that particular audience.
- paul_haakonsen
- Jun 8, 2012
- Permalink
As something that mysteriously ended up on my hard drive, I had no motivation to unpack this unfamiliar movie with the goofy name. From the opening scene I was aware that it was a Canadian film, and that did nothing to improve my hopes for this film. It was a Christmas miracle in October that I even got to the final credits because I had to view the movie in three separate sittings. Funny, tender, sincere, well paced, unexpected, irreverent, tidy and believable ending. I mean, damn, I was expecting "Trailer Park Boys karaoke the entire catalog of Motorhead while shotgunning cheap beer" and what I got was more like "Cheech & Chong bolted into Trading Places". Basically, jackass stoner vibes with a A, B, C story that worked. Well done, Canada!
- VivaAcetate
- Oct 13, 2019
- Permalink
What kinda brainless nonsense did I just endure? Fubar was a decent enjoyable movie and I really liked it. It had an authentic feel to it and the characters were likeable. Their personalities rang true and there was a humanity about the whole project. This mess of slop was almost beyond endurance. The plot is ludicrous and nothing made the least bit of sense. Bringing back the medical issue was just a cop out because there were no original ideas to be found in the minds of the so-called creators of this putrid pile. There was no good humor or jokes anywhere in this. Dean turned into a total slime ball since the original. He was always a worthless loser but at least had some fun loving qualities. His friend, whose name I forget, was consistent from one project to the next. Not bright but at least striving for some sort of better life. The problem is his girlfriend in the movie was the most annoying brainless thing who just used him. All she does is complain and yell and swear and isn't the least bit funny, kind, or attractive. Anyone with an ouce of sense would realize this and tell her to fly away. The relationship was garbage. The workplace scenarios were so silly and false the unions should actually sue the makers of this film. Tron was an over the top buffoon and the worst disgusting slob of a useless tool. I dunno it just wasn't for me, but I can recommend the first one from 2002 for a mildly entertaining movie that is at least easy to enjoy if taken in the vein intended. But this is one hundred percent rubbish.
- mcjensen-05924
- Oct 12, 2022
- Permalink
Deaner & Terry take you on a trip that feels so innocent life..small quanta of happiness.Down the road you start identifying with them and it feels like you are living the movie... kudos for the director who made the movie like a simple running fountain...i mean who needs to be Bill gates if you can live like this...this sequel has added some background music and songs unlike the first one.Only problem is brevity of the movie...cos when you are start to enjoy it, it starts ending on you...and you wish they had made two sequels together so that you could enjoy it a little bit more... all in all, its a magical small trip of carefreeness,and joy.and i am eagerly waiting for next sequel already...
- allrightramblers
- Nov 16, 2011
- Permalink
I'm a huge fan of Trailer Park Boys and have seen it several times over. I was expecting this to be more of that style of comedy, being a mockumentary/comedy, but on the other side of Canada instead. Or maybe an adventure like Wayne's World, something like that. What I got in its place left me disappointed. This movie elicited a single guffaw from me, even though the goal of comedy is usually supposed to be to make people laugh. The goal of great comedy also invites the viewer to contemplate something or another, which this one fell short of as well. This movie was like nails on chalkboard and I felt like I was wasting my time while I watched it. It's problematic in its handling of women and gender issues and instead of satirizing Canada's largest environment struggle, it glorifies it. Since it's a dumb comedy, you expect some amount of tone deafness, however because it didn't deliver anywhere else, it just comes off as offensive "comedy" aimed at young, possibly alcoholic, right-wing dudebros.
- ashleyannkennedy
- Sep 5, 2022
- Permalink
The sequel heads up to Fort Mac as Terry and Dean get high-paying oil jobs. This time, the mockumentary aspect is gone, it's just a regular movie.
On equal footing with the original, maybe even better. There's much more happening with the characters this time, a few unexpected twists, but still maintaining that headbanger attitude. Just give'r a chance, if you liked the first, you'll like this too!
On equal footing with the original, maybe even better. There's much more happening with the characters this time, a few unexpected twists, but still maintaining that headbanger attitude. Just give'r a chance, if you liked the first, you'll like this too!
- Lebowskidoo
- Sep 25, 2020
- Permalink
Cult classic... Trish killed it in this... but for production to be granted nearly a twentyfold increased budget on the sequel, I thought they could have at least allocated things better in either the narrative department or with the overall production value. Props to cinematography and the sound/mix though!
- The_Movie_Archive
- Jun 16, 2021
- Permalink
Dean and Terry are back and better than ever. This time they've been evicted from their home and travel out west to the Alberta oil sands looking for work with their unhinged buddy Tron. Terry falls for a woman who is nothing less than the village bicycle and him and Deaner struggle to make ends meet, to keep their jobs, and to keep from killing each other. This movie is non-stop laughs from start to finish. If you liked the original Fubar or are a fan of Canadian cinema, or you just like shotgunning a few beers and kicking back with some tunes, I highly recommend this movie. The plot is also surprisingly well developed and poignant with some great twists as well. And they show you what happens when you try to microwave a turkey for 17 or 18 minutes eh... I can't believe it took me this long to watch this movie. Fubar 2: Balls to the Wall is nothing short of a cinematic masterpiece. Dean and Terry will keep givin'r even harder in Fubar 3! *fingers crossed*
- TheEtherWalk
- Aug 3, 2012
- Permalink