I Not Stupid Too

I don't exactly remember the first story, I Not Stupid, only that it's a good one. The sequel bears the same hallmark of Jack Neo's movies minus the political satire that marks the first film: a contemporary view of Singaporean education, parent-children relationships, and the strict 'follow the law' credo that was playfully portrayed in his latest offering, Just Follow Law.

You'll laugh and you'll cry. Jack's brilliance lies in his ability to bring a story that 'connects' with us, the audience. You can easily identify with the scenes at school, the constant nagging and lectures from parents and how their actions are always right, the modern lingo that kids use. Oh, and plenty of the ever-present product placement (in this movie alone, there are at least 4 or 5 brands that starred along with the actors, including Motorola, Apple, New Moon Abalone).

The story's narrator is 8-year-old Jerry (Ashley Leong), who during the introduction talks about how his parents, grandmother launches a tirade of words that flow endlessly from their mouths and out his and his brother Tom's ears.

The main plot involves Tom and his best friend Chengchai (Joshua Ang), who rebel against teachers and finally got into serious trouble in the second half of the movie. The movie offers plenty of moral stories. Lack of communication is also one of the many problems that plague our society and the movie constantly highlight this point throughout. In more than a few scenes, parents may be reminded of the immense responsibility that comes with parenthood. Being a good role model and all that moral stuff. The same may be said for teachers, the movie also teaches us to be generous with compliments and encouragement, to focus on people's virtues, not their flaws.. as showing appreciation is much lacking in our society these days.

And it is here I realize the Ministry of Education has laws that allow principle to order a public caning of 'stray' students. I didn't verify the truth, but I would suppose it's true. Interesting. If it is true, maybe they should consider abolishing it.

Overall, it fared pretty well. I have to say, I always enjoy Jack Neo's movies since the Liang Po Po era. Although this movie may speak a little louder to Singaporeans or those who have lived in Singapore (plenty of local lingo abound), the message is universal and audience of all ages will find it enjoyable.