Big Daddy 2 is the long-anticipated sequel to the 1999 comedy hit Big Daddy, once again starring Adam Sandler in the role of Sonny Koufax, a lovable yet irresponsible man who tries to navigate adulthood in his own unconventional way. This time, however, Big Daddy 2 brings a new layer of maturity, emotion, and heart to Sonny’s character while maintaining the humor and absurdity that made the original film a fan favorite.
Set more than two decades after the events of the first movie, Big Daddy 2 finds Sonny now a middle-aged father raising his adopted son Julian, who is now in his twenties and about to graduate from college. Sonny is no longer the slacker he once was, but he’s still struggling with the challenges of fatherhood—this time from the perspective of letting go. Julian, played by a grown-up Cole Sprouse, wants to move across the country to pursue a career in documentary filmmaking, which causes tension between the two. The film explores generational gaps, changing values, and the delicate balance between protecting your child and allowing them the freedom to become their own person.
Directed by Dennis Dugan, who also helmed the original film, Big Daddy 2 mixes classic slapstick humor with heartfelt storytelling. Adam Sandler brings his signature comedic timing, but he also delivers a more nuanced performance that reflects Sonny’s emotional growth. The film features returning characters such as Layla (Joey Lauren Adams), now Sonny’s longtime partner, and the eccentric delivery guys played by Rob Schneider and Allen Covert, who add doses of chaotic energy throughout the story.
What sets Big Daddy 2 apart from other comedy sequels is its willingness to confront themes like aging, identity, and emotional vulnerability without sacrificing its lighthearted core. While it still contains plenty of crude jokes and silly scenarios—including Sonny accidentally going viral on social media and trying to understand modern dating apps—the heart of the movie lies in the evolving father-son relationship. Their moments of conflict and reconciliation are relatable to audiences of all ages, especially those who have grown up alongside the original film.
The screenplay is filled with nostalgic callbacks to the first movie, including scenes where Sonny and Julian recreate their old “Scuba Steve” adventures, only now with ironic adult twists. The humor is more self-aware, and the film cleverly pokes fun at the passage of time—both in terms of its characters and its viewers.
Ultimately, Big Daddy 2 succeeds as both a continuation and a reinvention. It respects the legacy of the original while introducing enough fresh content and emotional depth to make it relevant in today’s world. Fans of Adam Sandler will appreciate the familiar tone, but they may also be surprised by the film’s touching message about change, growth, and the enduring bonds of unconventional family. It’s not just about being a big daddy—it’s about learning to be a better one.
