The long-awaited sequel to the iconic film “Freaky Friday” reassembles original stars Jamie Lee Curtis and Lindsay Lohan for a fresh adventure that revisits the mother-daughter body swap dynamic 22 years after the original’s release. This new installment, while uneven, has been described by critics as endearing, capturing the essence of its predecessor.
In the sequel, Curtis reprises her role as Tess, a therapist navigating the complexities of modern life. Lohan’s character, Anna, has matured into a single mother raising her rebellious teenage daughter, Harper, portrayed by Julia Butters. The film introduces a new romantic interest for Anna, a British chef played by Manny Jacinto. Complications arise when Anna’s daughter Harper finds herself at odds with Jacinto’s character’s daughter, Lily, played by Sophia Hammons. This rivalry escalates, leading to a fateful encounter with a psychic during Anna’s hen night, which triggers a new body swap—this time involving four characters.
The film cleverly shifts the narrative focus, with Anna waking up in Harper’s body while Tess swaps with Lily. Critics note that while the premise is confusing, it allows for interesting performances as the actors embody their younger counterparts. Tom Shone from The Sunday Times highlights that the film captures a nostalgic charm, although it may not reach the comedic heights or narrative cohesion of the original.
Critics have offered mixed reactions to the performances. Clarisse Loughrey from The Independent points out that while Butters effectively mimics Lohan’s mannerisms, both Lohan and Curtis tend to portray a more generic immaturity. In contrast, Dana Stevens of Slate praises Curtis for showcasing her physical comedy skills as she embodies a teenager, demonstrating both the exhilaration of youth and the horror of an unexpected transformation.
Although the film may not be a cinematic triumph and lacks the sharp humor and cohesive plot of the 2003 original, it features moments that resonate with audiences, earning it an affectionate reception. The sequel captures the spirit of its predecessor while providing a contemporary twist, appealing to both fans of the original film and a new generation of viewers.
As audiences return to the familiar narrative of body-swapping chaos, the film reminds us of the enduring bond between mother and daughter, making it a heartwarming experience for families this season.