Paul Blart: Mall Cop 2 Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray transfer of "Paul Blart: Mall Cop 2" delivers an impressive 1.85:1 1080p HD presentation, showcasing the film's digital photography and Las Vegas backdrop in near demo-worthy quality. Image clarity is outstanding, with facial features and intricate costuming rendered in exquisite detail. Early mall shots reveal storefronts and Blart's uniform with remarkable efficiency and lifelike realism, while the vibrant hotel interiors in Vegas highlight fine touches and textures with equal precision.

Colors in this transfer are vibrant yet balanced, ensuring a dynamic but natural visual experience. From Blart's crisp white shirt to the multicolored casino elements, every hue is sparkling and true without leaning into oversaturation. Black levels are deep and satisfying, providing a strong sense of three-dimensional depth, particularly effective in shadowed scenes. Skin tones maintain a natural appearance, showing only a mild push to orange/red in warmly lit environments.

Despite a touch of noise in some of the low-light segments, such as the Le Reve show in chapter eleven, this remains a minor issue that does not detract from the overall quality. The Blu-ray's presentation is technically flawless in most respects, making it an exceptional visual experience for viewers.

"Paul Blart: Mall Cop 2" features a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 lossless soundtrack that proficiently supports the film's audio requirements. The musical score is presented robustly with an appealing vibrant stage presence and a well-balanced surround support structure, encompassing clear and healthy tones. Although the atmospherics do not offer fully immersive experiences, the track delivers satisfactory casino, crowd, and outdoor ambient effects, utilizing the surround speakers fairly effectively. Notable scene-specific audio, like the wide dining hall speech in chapter eight, exhibits excellent microphone reverberation that immerses the listener. Other sound details, such as a helicopter's overhead zoom and the weighted thumps of Blart's beanbag launcher, are delivered with mild yet satisfying natural heft.

Primarily focusing on the front channels, "Paul Blart: Mall Cop 2" impressively employs its DTS-HD 5.1 audio track. Dialogue clarity is maintained consistently, never becoming obscured, even during the more subtle and quiet moments. Dynamic range is effectively managed, with bass notes of the score and accompanying thumps in sound effects resonating with nice weighty vibes. The action sequences shine particularly well, with increased surround channel activity creating a natural and lively ambiance. Highlights like Blart's arrival in Las Vegas or his attempt to play craps benefit from detailed and engaging sound design, enhancing the viewing experience significantly.

The Blu-ray extras for "Paul Blart: Mall Cop 2" provide a rich and detailed look into the making of the film, offering fans a variety of behind-the-scenes content. The gag reel and deleted scenes add some light-hearted moments, while short featurettes delve deeper into technical aspects and cast experiences. Engaging mini-documentaries, such as "Action Adventure" and "Le Reve," highlight the challenges and creativity involved in filming action sequences and integrating a Vegas show into the plot. Meanwhile, comedic and informative pieces like "No Animals Were Harmed" and "Sales Tactics" bring additional layers of entertainment and insight. This selection of extras offers a comprehensive and engaging behind-the-scenes experience.

Extras included in this disc:

• Gag Reel: A collection of humorous outtakes.
• Deleted Scenes: A series of removed scenes.
• Security Force: The Cast of Paul Blart 2: Cast insight on characters and scenes.
• Action Adventure: Behind-the-scenes of action sequences.
• Back in the Saddle: Focuses on the Segway's return.
• How to Make a Movie: Director's perspective on filmmaking.
• Le Reve: Integration of a Vegas show into the film.
• No Animals Were Harmed: Behind the bird fight sequence.
• Sales Tactics: Comedic struggles with lines.
• Real Cops: Opinions from Vegas police officers.
• Photo Gallery: Behind-the-scenes stills.
• Previews: Trailers for additional Sony titles.

"Paul Blart: Mall Cop 2" grounds its humor heavily in physical gags and the endearing persona of Kevin James. While the film attempts to extend the affable charm of its predecessor by moving the setting to Las Vegas, it stumbles with a formulaic approach that fails to innovate or excite. James, as Blart, remains the linchpin, but the reliance on tired jokes—whether falling down, fighting birds, or the comically exaggerated hypoglycemia—results in repetitive and predictable scenes that lack substantial payoff. The character's development mirrors his trusty Segway: functional but static, perpetuating a humor style that feels recycled and uninspired.

The plot centers around Blart’s misadventures during a security convention at a lavish hotel where his daughter Maya (Raini Rodriguez) is kidnapped amidst an art heist orchestrated by Vincent (Neal McDonough). Despite the promise of an engaging setup, the narrative lumbers without direction. Incidents meant to elicit laughs often fall flat or feel overly contrived. The antagonist’s presence, though played capably by McDonough, fails to inject menace or vitality into the story due to limited screen time and a script that underutilizes his potential. Consequently, the dynamic between the villain and Blart lacks the necessary tension to drive a compelling comedic conflict.

Overall, "Paul Blart: Mall Cop 2" seems trapped in its safety net of slapstick comedy and simplistic character arcs. James’ comedic timing and earnest effort do little to elevate material that seems content with mediocrity. While some family audiences might find sporadic enjoyment in its familiar brand of humor, the film offers little in terms of creativity or genuine comic progression, resulting in a "die hard" attempt to replicate old success without fresh enthusiasm or innovation.

"Paul Blart: Mall Cop 2" offers a comedy experience that leans heavily on its predecessor’s blueprint, providing a familiar and safe environment for family viewing. Kevin James reprises his role as the hapless mall security guard with enthusiasm, delivering a performance that, while entertaining, doesn't venture to new comedic heights. The film, unfortunately, relies on well-worn jokes and fails to push creative boundaries, making it a light-hearted but ultimately forgettable sequel.

Technically, the Blu-ray release excels, boasting a sharp and vibrant video presentation that stands out as demo-worthy. The DTS-HD MA 5.1 surround track complements the visual quality with immersive audio, ensuring a top-tier home theater experience. The supplementary features, though mostly short and superficial, provide a modest amount of behind-the-scenes content that fans may find amusing. However, the lack of in-depth bonus material might leave some viewers wanting more.

In conclusion, "Paul Blart: Mall Cop 2" is a serviceable family comedy that does not require much thought or effort to enjoy. While it does little to innovate or impress beyond basic expectations, Kevin James' fitting portrayal of Paul Blart remains a highlight. The Blu-ray's excellent audiovisual quality makes it worth a rental for fans of the series or those in need of light entertainment. However, if a third installment is ever considered, a fresh creative approach would be greatly welcomed.