So Nice, Had to Do it Twice, ‘Hot Tub Time Machine 2’

“Hot Tub Time Machine 2” picks up almost where the first left off. Almost the whole gang is back for another time traveling adventure when the sequel hits theaters on Feb. 20, 2015.

In 2010, movies like “127 Hours” and “Black Swan” won over the Oscar crowd. Another notch in the “Twilight” series made money off confused tweens everywhere, and comic book fanatics flocked to see “Kick-Ass.” Sitting in the corner was “Hot Tub Time Machine.” It wasn’t the biggest film of that year, but it found its footing and managed to be a fan favorite for those who like movies that are full of lines that cement in the minds of those who watch it.

The first had its main guys dreading their current state, and after one night in a hot tub and a drink with a secret ingredient – they headed back to 1986. After difficulties and realizing what went wrong in the past, things pan out and the film ended on a high note. This time around, things are picking up with Lou being the “father of the Internet,” living lavish and getting shot. His friends then have to use their trustee hot tub to try to save their friend’s life. In trying to do so, they end up heading a decade into the future.

For the most part the characters people fell in love with the first time around are back. Craig Robinson, Rob Corddry and Clark Duke are back to reprise their roles. The only one missing from the original is John Cusack. His character will not be making an appearance due to scheduling conflicts, but “Parks and Recreation’s” Adam Scott was cast as his character’s son to fill the void and make the gang have four instead three. Joining the main cast is “Community’s” Gillian Jacobs, her ex-costar from that show, Chevy Chase, and funnyman Kumail Nanjiani.

Sequels are hard to pull off but because it’s one of those movies that started as a frat-classic, it won’t be hard to get fans of the first back into theaters to see what happens next. They may not be too fond of Cusack being out, but Scott’s wit and charm is enough to make up for his absence.

“Hot Tub Time Machine 2” travels into theaters Feb. 20.