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Here's a look at the new movie I saw this week.

Pitch Perfect 2
Starring: Anna Kendrick, Rebel Wilson, Brittany Snow, Hailee Steinfeld, Elizabeth Banks, John Michael Higgins, and Skylar Astin
Synopsis: When Mickey Rapkin, a senior editor at GQ, wrote the non-fiction book “Pitch Perfect” he probably didn’t anticipate what that work would spawn. In October 2012 “Pitch Perfect” the movie became a sleeper hit. It didn’t tear up the Box Office charts, but it was a hit with everyone that saw it. The film gained more of a following on DVD and Blu-Ray, and became a national sensation after star Anna Kendrick’s rendition of “Cups” topped the Billboard charts. Inevitably, that inspired the little movie that could to become a film franchise. The highly anticipated sequel — this time directed by producer and co-star Elizabeth Banks — opened on May 15, in the heart of the first month of the summer movie season. In one weekend it made more money than the original at the Box Office, and it dominated the likes of “Mad Max” and “The Avengers.” And it did it all with the same sense of humor, style and musicality that made the original so much fun. “Pitch Perfect” went from a catchy little fall movie in 2012 to one of the most anticipated films of the summer thanks to its heart, humor and talented cast. That’s the same talent that, at one time, helped “Glee” become a phenomenon on the small screen. Kay Cannon, the screenwriter who brought “Pitch Perfect” to life, returns to pen the sequel. She ramps up the jokes — and the film ramps up the musical numbers — but the heart of the story and the characters remains the same. What really makes this movie work is the friendship between these girls, who are brought together by their shared love of music. That was what made the original special, and that’s what helps make the sequel soar. Steinfeld is the new entry into that world, and she fits well. She brings a unique personality and set of skills to the group, and she fits beautifully as part of the ensemble. With talk of this sequel spawning even more films, she could play a critical part. The film also has plenty of strong supporting characters. Snow is great as the neurotic Chloe, while Astin returns — albeit in a more limited role — as Beca’s boyfriend Jesse. Ben Platte and Adam Divine — who play goofy magician Benji and overly cocky Bumper, respectively — also get funny little sub plots. But this film really works best when it focuses on Wilson — a unique comedic talent — and Kendrick. They have different styles, but they work well together. Their relationship, and the talents each brings to the film, are what help make “Pitch Perfect 2” soar. Summer is a time of overstuffed comedies, big action films and plenty of sequels. What makes this sequel stand out is the way it remains true to the original and builds on the world in a funny way. So far, “Pitch Perfect 2” is the best release of the summer movie season.
Rating: PG-13 for innuendo and language.
Verdict: Four stars out of four.

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