Stuart Little 2 – A Charming Sequel Full of Adventure and Heart

Stuart Little 2 is a charming blend of live-action and animation, directed by Rob Minkoff, and released in 2002 as a sequel to the 1999 film Stuart Little. It stars Geena Davis, Hugh Laurie, and Jonathan Lipnicki, with Michael J. Fox providing the voice of Stuart Little, and Nathan Lane voicing the family cat, Snowbell. Unlike the first film, Stuart Little 2 is more closely aligned with E.B. White’s original book, introducing a new character, Margalo, a canary voiced by Melanie Griffith.

Plot Overview

The film picks up three years after Stuart’s adoption by the Little family. Stuart is adjusting to family life but is starting to feel neglected, particularly by his overprotective mother, Eleanor. His loneliness intensifies when his older brother, George, prefers spending time with his friend Will rather than playing with him. In an attempt to find a friend of his own, Stuart encounters Margalo, a canary who claims to be in danger from a predatory falcon. Stuart brings Margalo home, unaware that she is working with the falcon, plotting to steal valuable items from the Littles.

As Margalo starts to bond with the family, her guilt grows. When she steals Eleanor’s ring, Stuart embarks on an adventure to find her and bring back the ring. With the help of Snowbell, the cat, Stuart discovers that Margalo is being coerced by Falcon, the dangerous peregrine falcon voiced by James Woods. The film leads to an exciting and heartfelt climax, as Stuart bravely takes to the skies in his toy plane to defeat Falcon and save Margalo.

Characters and Performances

The performances in Stuart Little 2 are delightful, especially the vocal performances of Michael J. Fox as Stuart, Melanie Griffith as Margalo, and Nathan Lane as the witty and loyal Snowbell. Their interactions blend seamlessly with the live-action family members, adding a unique charm to the film. The character of Snowbell stands out for his humorous antics and contrasting relationship with Stuart, providing both comic relief and heartfelt moments.

Reception and Box Office Success

Upon release, Stuart Little 2 was a box office success, grossing $170 million worldwide, surpassing its $120 million production budget. The film’s critical reception was also positive, with many praising its visual effects, heartwarming story, and family-friendly themes. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds an 81% approval rating, with critics noting its ability to entertain audiences of all ages. The film’s blend of humor, adventure, and emotional depth helped it become a favorite among families.

Legacy and Sequels

While Stuart Little 2 was a commercial and critical success, it was followed by Stuart Little 3: Call of the Wild in 2005, a direct-to-video release that took a different direction from the first two films. Nevertheless, Stuart Little 2 remains a standout in the series, with its memorable characters, thrilling plot, and uplifting message about friendship and bravery.

Conclusion

Stuart Little 2 is a sweet, visually impressive sequel that continues the beloved story of a small mouse trying to find his place in a big world. With a captivating story, memorable characters, and a heartwarming conclusion, it’s a film that resonates with both children and adults, making it a timeless family classic.

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