Zoolander 2 is a 2016 American action comedy film directed by and starring Ben Stiller
who co-wrote the script with Justin Theroux, John Hamburg, and Nicholas Stoller. This sequel to the 2001 film Zoolander features many returning cast members, including Owen Wilson, Will Ferrell, Christine Taylor, and Milla Jovovich, alongside new additions such as Penélope Cruz, Kristen Wiig, and Benedict Cumberbatch.
The film follows the story of Derek Zoolander, who is now struggling to maintain his relevance in the fashion world. After a series of events, he teams up with his rival Hansel and a fashion industry insider, played by Cruz, to uncover a conspiracy involving the assassination of pop stars. The plot is filled with absurd humor and satirical takes on the fashion industry, similar to its predecessor.
Released on February 12, 2016, Zoolander 2 received mostly negative reviews from critics, holding a low approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a score of 34 on Metacritic. Critics noted that while the film had numerous celebrity cameos, it lacked the charm and originality of the first installment, leading to a disappointing reception. Despite its $50-55 million budget, the film grossed only $56.7 million worldwide, making it a box office disappointment.
The film was dedicated to the memory of Drake Sather, a co-creator of the original Zoolander character, who passed away in 2004. Although it aimed to recapture the comedic essence of the first film, Zoolander 2 ultimately struggled to resonate with audiences and critics alike.