The 1995 sequel Grumpier Old Men was a box office success despite poor reviews
In short: Released in December 1995, the romantic comedy Grumpier Old Men reunited stars Jack Lemmon and Walter Matthau for a final outing with Burgess Meredith. While critics largely dismissed the film as contrived, it proved to be a commercial winner, grossing over $71 million against a production budget of $25 million.
Directed by Howard Deutch with a screenplay by Mark Steven Johnson, the film serves as a follow-up to the 1993 hit Grumpy Old Men. The plot centers on the evolving friendship between neighbors John Gustafson Jr. and Max Goldman, whose lives are disrupted when a local bait shop is purchased by Maria Ragetti, who intends to convert the property into an Italian restaurant. This conflict triggers a series of escalating pranks between the two men, complicating their romantic lives and the engagement of their children, Melanie and Jacob.
The production was notable for being the final film appearance of Burgess Meredith, who played John's father, J.W. Due to his struggle with Alzheimer's disease, Meredith required coaching throughout the filming process. The movie was shot on location in Minnesota, with specific sites including Washington County, Marine on St. Croix, and Stillwater. Despite the star power of the cast, which included Sophia Loren and Ann-Margret, the film received a lukewarm reception from critics, holding a 20% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a 46/100 score on Metacritic.
Nevertheless, audiences responded more favorably, awarding the film an average grade of A- via CinemaScore. Following the film's release, there were plans for a third installment, tentatively titled Grumpiest Old Men, which would have featured a trip to Italy and the inclusion of Marcello Mastroianni. However, the project faced significant hurdles, including the death of Burgess Meredith in 1997 and the eventual decision by the lead actors and director to prioritize The Odd Couple II. By August 1997, the third film was officially cancelled, closing the chapter on the series.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Grumpier Old Men
- Also: Wikidata — Grumpier Old Men · CC0
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