Universal
Is there a limit to how long one should wait before making a sequel? Provided the filmmakers have a viable concept that warrants reassembling the cast, the concept of waiting “too long” is virtually nonexistent. This idea was recently demonstrated by Eddie Murphy who, after a 33-year gap, followed the less-than-stellar “Coming 2 America” with the thoroughly enjoyable “Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F”, a full 40 years after the original. Audiences are typically content with what they already have. However, if a sequel can be delivered that doesn’t tarnish the memory of the original, they’re more than willing to part with their money.
Adam Sandler has his fair share of sequels under his belt, though he has yet to return to a film that wasn’t a complete flop. This puts him in unexplored territory with “Happy Gilmore 2”, which sees the return of the hard-hitting pro golfer who used his success to save his grandmother from an elderly home secretly operating as a sweatshop. For many, “Happy Gilmore” is Sandler’s “Citizen Kane” of pure comedies, making this a unique commercial gamble for the comedic actor.
Is there a brilliant concept in the works? We can’t say for certain. Information is scarce. However, thanks to some light-hearted chatter on The Today Show, we have insight into what transpired with Happy’s relationship with pro golf publicist Virginia Venit.
Happy and Virginia remain a couple in Happy Gilmore 2
Universal
Julie Bowen had some television experience in the 1990s, but “Happy Gilmore” marked her first feature film, where she played the resourceful Venit who recognized the marketing potential in Happy’s unconventional approach to the traditionally reserved sport of golf. Bowen later achieved significant television success as Claire Dunphy on ABC’s “Modern Family”, but “Happy Gilmore” still holds a distinctive place in her heart.
During a conversation with Today co-host Jenna Bush Hager, Bowen confirmed that she was under strict orders to keep all details regarding “Happy Gilmore 2” confidential. However, when Hager casually questioned whether Virginia and Happy were still an item, Bowen confirmed, “Yes, we are still very much together.” Despite Hager’s gentle ribbing about revealing a spoiler, Bowen seemed unfazed, questioning, “Is that bad?” before continuing, “No. That … You can put that … I think I’m allowed to say that!”
If she wasn’t permitted to share that information, we may have some casting updates for “Happy Gilmore 2” in the near future.
As for the worthiness of “Happy Gilmore 2”, we’ll have to wait and see. The film, which commenced shooting this week, is expected to debut on Netflix sometime next year.
Credit: www.slashfilm.com