Welcome to Movie Mondays, a weekly blog series that takes you on a cinematic odyssey through the world of film! Each week, we’ll dive into a list of my 100 least favorite movies, exploring what makes them fall short and discussing the lessons we can learn from their missteps. Remember that these low-ranking films are only that way based on my personal opinion. Something I hate may be something you love and no offense is intended. Wherever these movies fall for you, I invite you to grab some popcorn and join in on the debate over these films’ merits!

Crocodile Dundee in Los Angeles

2001

Directed by Simon Wincer

Crikey, mates! It’s time to dust off your boots and grab your oversized knife because everyone’s favorite Aussie is back in the big city. That’s right, Paul Hogan has returned for another adventure as Michael J. “Crocodile” Dundee in the 2001 action comedy, Crocodile Dundee in Los Angeles. But before you get too excited, let me tell you why this sequel should’ve stayed in the outback.

First of all, this film is a whopping 13 years too late. The original Crocodile Dundee was a charming, fish-out-of-water tale that captured audiences’ hearts back in 1986. Its sequel, Crocodile Dundee II, turned our lovable bushman into an action hero, which was a bit of a stretch but still entertaining. However, by the time Crocodile Dundee in Los Angeles hit theaters, the novelty had worn off, and the once-endearing character had become a caricature of himself.

The plot revolves around Mick Dundee and his family moving to Los Angeles after his wife, Sue Charlton (Linda Kozlowski), is offered a job as a newspaper bureau chief. Cue the predictable culture clash and cringeworthy misunderstandings as Mick navigates the urban jungle of L.A. To make matters worse, the film throws in a half-baked mystery involving Sue’s predecessor’s death and an art smuggling ring. It’s as if the writers threw darts at a board filled with random plot points and hoped for the best.

Paul Hogan, bless his heart, tries his best to recapture the magic of the original film, but the script does him no favors. Gone is the charming, quick-witted Dundee we fell in love with; instead, we’re left with a bumbling buffoon who seems confused by the most basic aspects of modern life. The supporting cast, including Jere Burns and Jonathan Banks, are wasted in one-dimensional roles that add little to the story.

Behind the scenes, there were reportedly disputes over the script between Hogan and writers Matthew Berry and Eric Abrams. The final product suffered from a lack of direction and a coherent vision. Even the film’s director, Simon Wincer, who had previously worked with Hogan on the TV series The Paul Hogan Show, couldn’t salvage this mess.

To add insult to injury, Crocodile Dundee in Los Angeles was a box office disappointment, grossing only $39 million worldwide – a far cry from the success of its predecessors. Critics panned the film, with Rotten Tomatoes giving it a measly 11% rating. The consensus? “A sequel as unnecessary as it is belated, Crocodile Dundee in Los Angeles lacks virtually all of the easygoing humor and charm that delighted fans of the original.”

In conclusion, Crocodile Dundee in Los Angeles is a prime example of why some franchises should quit while they’re ahead. The film’s stale humor, convoluted plot, and lackluster performances make it a chore to sit through. As much as it pains me to say it, it’s time for Mick Dundee to hang up his hat and enjoy a quiet life in the outback.

But what do you think, readers? Am I being too harsh on this belated sequel, or do you agree that Crocodile Dundee in Los Angeles is a crock of you-know-what? Let me know in the comments below!