Is Lethal Weapon 2 a Christmas Movie?
The age-old debate about what constitutes a Christmas movie has sparked a heated discussion among movie enthusiasts. From "Elf" to "Die Hard," films have been either celebrated or criticized for their holiday themes and settings. One movie that has caught the attention of this debate is Lethal Weapon 2, the 1989 action-comedy sequel to the original 1987 film. Does this film have the hallmarks of a Christmas movie, or is it simply a cop thriller with a brief festive cameo?
Initial Thoughts
Before diving into the details, it’s essential to establish what constitutes a Christmas movie. According to a 2019 survey by YouGov, the top three characteristics that define a Christmas movie are:
• Setting: Taking place during the holiday season (Christmas, Hanukkah, etc.)
• Themes: Emphasis on family, love, and togetherness
• Tone: Whimsical, heartwarming, or sentimental
Lethal Weapon 2, at first glance, seems like an unlikely candidate for the Christmas movie club. The film’s tagline is "More barrel of monkeys, more mayhem," and its trailers showcase action-packed sequences, explosions, and a healthy dose of humor. However, let’s delve deeper into the film and see if it meets these criteria.
Setting: The Holiday Season
One of the most significant aspects of a Christmas movie is its setting. Lethal Weapon 2 is set during the holiday season, specifically between Christmas Eve and New Year’s Day. The film’s storyline revolves around the investigation of a crime committed by South African diplomats, which coincides with the holiday festivities. This sets the stage for a festive atmosphere, with decorations, lights, and even a Christmas tree appearing throughout the film.
Themes: Family and Love
Another crucial characteristic of a Christmas movie is its emphasis on family and love. Lethal Weapon 2 explores these themes through the relationships between the main characters. Detective Roger Murtaugh (Danny Glover) is portrayed as a loving father, while Detective Martin Riggs (Mel Gibson) is shown to be a broken, yet loving, man. The two detectives share a strong bond, and their partnership is built on trust, respect, and a deep affection for one another.
Moreover, the film highlights the importance of family and unity during the holiday season. Murtaugh’s family, consisting of his wife, Rianne (Darlene Love), and his children, are a significant part of the story. The tension between Murtaugh’s family and his partner, Riggs, serves as a backdrop for the action-packed plot, emphasizing the importance of togetherness and love.
Tone: Whimsical and Heartwarming
The tone of Lethal Weapon 2 is often described as action-packed, humorous, and over-the-top. While this may not initially scream "Christmas movie," the film’s tone does have moments of whimsy and heartwarming sentimentality. The chemistry between Murtaugh and Riggs is undeniable, and their banter and interactions often provide comic relief. Additionally, the film’s climax features a poignant moment where Murtaugh and his family come together to support each other, showcasing the power of love and unity during the holiday season.
Comparison to Other Christmas Movies
To further examine Lethal Weapon 2’s status as a Christmas movie, let’s compare it to other films that have been classified as such. Here’s a table summarizing the characteristics of five well-known Christmas movies and how they stack up against Lethal Weapon 2:
| Characteristics | Lethal Weapon 2 | Elf | Home Alone | A Christmas Story | Die Hard |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Setting | Holiday season | Christmas Eve | Christmas break | 1940s Christmas | Christmas Eve |
| Themes | Family, love, togetherness | Family, self-discovery | Family, resourcefulness | Childhood wonder | Love, redemption |
| Tone | Action-comedy, whimsical | Heartwarming, sentimental | Adventurous, humorous | Witty, nostalgic | Action-packed, dramatic |
While Lethal Weapon 2 doesn’t entirely fit the traditional mold of a Christmas movie, it shares many of the same characteristics. It’s set during the holiday season, emphasizes family and love, and has moments of whimsy and heartwarming sentimentality. If we consider the film’s tone and themes in context, it’s not far-fetched to argue that Lethal Weapon 2 is, in fact, a Christmas movie.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Lethal Weapon 2 does possess many of the hallmarks of a Christmas movie. While it may not be as traditionally festive as other holiday films, it shares many of the same themes, tone, and setting characteristics. The film’s action-packed plot, humor, and heartwarming moments make it a unique yet compelling addition to the Christmas movie canon.
Ultimately, the question of whether Lethal Weapon 2 is a Christmas movie is a matter of personal opinion. If you enjoy action-packed comedies with a strong focus on family and love, then this film may be the perfect holiday movie for you. So, grab some hot cocoa, gather your loved ones, and experience the festive charm of Lethal Weapon 2 – a true Christmas movie gem.
