(1993)
2
Karl Williams
A disappointing sequel to a likable and sturdy crime comedy-drama that was sort of a Rear Window (1954) without all that pesky depth and undercurrent of sexually depraved voyeurism, this by-the-numbers sequel combines elements obviously cribbed from other, better films with a paucity of laughs. Rosie O'Donnell is an annoying, mystifying addition to the core cast, diluting the genuine mirth that existed between leads Richard Dreyfuss and Emilio Estevez in the first film. That memorable story was a facile blend of mounting tension and believable humor. The follow-up relies on broad sight gags such as an expensive sports car tumbling into a large body of water, or comic business with a dog (because, hey, animals are funny), and a bickering couple straight out of The Honeymooners, only not as funny. Director John Badham proves himself time and again to be hopelessly lost without an artistic compass when attempting comedy; despite repeated attempts, the first Stakeout (1987) is literally his only amusing film. Instead, the director falls back on what he's good at, action, even mounting a huge explosion, filmed from multiple angles and shown over and over again from each one, in the way TV viewers once experienced The Bionic Man running in slow motion. It's not funny, although it's one heck of an explosion, but Another Stakeout is unfortunately not about explosions or action, and ends up an unsurprising disappointment.
cast-crew for Another Stakeout on AllMovie
Another Stakeout (1993)
