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Grease 2 Blu-ray Steelbook Review

“Grease 2” is not “Grease,” but it’s better than its reputation suggests.

For those that aren’t aware, “Grease 2” takes viewers back to Rydell High School (this time in the year 1961). With the exception of a few familiar faces like Frenchy, Coach Calhoun, Principal McGee, Leo Balmudo, among others, the Ken Finkleman scripted story focuses on new characters namely Stephanie (a member of The Pink Ladies), Johnny (a member of the T-Birds) and Michael (a British teen who has just arrived at Rydell). The central plot is basically a role reversal with Michael attempting to become a motorcycle riding greaser to impress Stephanie. There’s also a couple of subplots involving a talent show and bikers tossed in. 

In celebration of the 40th anniversary of “Grease 2” (yes, it has really been that long), Paramount has released a new Blu-ray steelbook of the musical sequel. Although it was once roasted by critics and audiences, the Patricia Birch directed film has garnered a devoted cult fanbase over the years. Is it truly as bad as some have said or is it worth a second look? 

It’s been some time since my first viewing, but this particular rewatch boasted better results. Is it derivative? Is there barely a plot to speak of? Is Frenchy shoehorned into the movie? Are there cheesy dance numbers and songs like the innuendo filled bowling number “Score Tonight”? Is it entirely inferior to the classic original? The answer to all of these questions is yes and yet it’s still not the abomination some make it out to be. There’s something charming about the fact that the film never takes itself seriously and seems to embrace the corny aspects. It’s also just fun to jump back into the world of Rydell High again. On top of that, there’s actually some respectable tunes like “Cool Rider” and “Reproduction” that are total earworms.

Perhaps the real reason “Grease 2” somehow works is due to a few talented cast members. John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John may be absent, but Michelle Pfeiffer, Christopher McDonald, Tab Hunter, Adrian Zmed, and even Eddie Deezen in a small role really liven up the movie. Pfeiffer in particular has an electric screen presence and carries the entire movie (and maybe even saves it from being a failure). It’s not hard to see how her career skyrocketed RIGHT after this movie. 

Video/Audio:

Presentation: 2.35:1 1080p. How does it look? However one may feel about this sequel, there’s no denying this hi-def transfer is dazzling. The colors are incredibly rich and the movie has never looked better.

Audio Track: Dolby TrueHD 5.1. How does it sound? The dialogue sounds crisp and the musical numbers are nothing short of lively.

The lone extra is a Digital copy.

June 7, 2022 - Posted by nicklyons1 | Blu-Ray review | Cool Rider, Grease 2, Grease 2 Blu-ray Steelbook Review, Michelle Pfeiffer