Ranking 2015's Summer Blockbuster Films From Worst To Best

8. Magic Mike XXL

Probably the most unnecessary movie sequel this summer turned out to also be one of the better ones. Magic Mike XXL may not boast the unexpected dramatic heft of the original film, but the lighter tone makes for a more easy-going outing that's frothy, silly fun with a host of likeable characters strutting their stuff. There's the sexy beefcake for the ladies, the bromantic chemistry for the guys, and a number of welcome casting additions, specifically Jada Pinkett Smith and Donald Glover. That the film not only manages to justify its existence through sheer fun and even make the audience hope for a third time around in the future is credit to both director Gregory Jacobs who took over the lead from Steven Soderbergh, and Soderbergh himself, who helps create a consistent sequel by acting as both cinematographer and editor on the film. Even without Matthew McConaughey's larger-than-life presence, XXL proves that a tonally different take on similar material can be almost as delightful: it takes a lot of effort to make an entertaining movie look this simple.