Analyze That review

Judging by the outtakes shown over the end credits, Analyze That was at least as amusing to make as it was to watch. Crystal and De Niro enjoy a comfortable rapport infused with an infectious sense of fun. It was this combination which made Analyze This so appealing, and although the follow up is still entertaining, it lacks both the freshness and invention of the original.

The sequel reunites the same supporting team. Harold Ramis again directs, with Lisa Kudrow back playing Crystal's put upon wife Laura, and Joe Viterelli returning as Paul Vitti's (Robert De Niro) henchman, Jelly. Analyze That attempts little more than to regurgitate the formula that served it so well the first time around. The most marked difference between the two films is the sequel's negligible amount of psychoanalytical shtick between Dr Sobel (Billy Crystal) and Mafia boss Vitti. Instead it relies on a more tired and predictable heist plot.

Nevertheless, Analyze That has plenty of laughs. Vitti, fearing for his life in prison, tries to secure his release by feigning a mental breakdown. Seeing the once macho villain bursting into showtunes from West Side Story was clearly more than enough evidence for the authorities. And even further proof, were it needed, that De Niro has all but become a caricature of himself in his effort to embrace slapstick humour.

Upon his release, Vitti is entrusted into the care of the reluctant Dr Sobel, himself fooled by the act. Vitti then makes an attempt to rehabilitate himself with a series of ill-suited jobs before his notoriety secures him the position of consultant on the hit TV mafia series 'Little Caesar' (Anthony La Paglia in an amusing turn as Caesar). But all of this is for appearance, as Vitti quickly sets about reconnecting with all his underworld cronies, including the formidable Patti (Cathy Moriarty-Gentile) and the ominously named Lou The Wrench. As Vitti's guardian, the law-abiding Sobel inevitably finds himself being dragged into Vitti's nefarious plans.

It's futile to expend any more energy examining the film's flaws and merits than were employed in its creation. Suffice to say, if you enjoyed Analyze This, then you'll enjoy Analyze That, and no doubt Analyze The Other when it comes out.