Whenever they talk about releasing a sequel to a movie straight to dvd, you know that can't be good. They can try to use all the rationale they want talking about how it maximizes profits and it can get quicker distribution. The fact is, it's going there because it's basically an inferior product. Such is the case here.
The "American Pie" movies were credited with revitalizing the genre of the teen raunch movies. "Porky's" made it famous when it hit the scene in the 80s, but then it pretty much died out. Along came the first "American Pie" carving a niche that had been forgotten and could almost be considered a sleeper hit. Its sequel was just as good. The third was a stretch, but still not that bad. They really should have quit while they were ahead.
Where they really screwed up is having the main character be a Stifler sibling. It was no secret that Sean William Scott as Steve Stifler was the secret behind the success of the AP movies. Sure, the pie bit in the first one didn't hurt, but it was Scott's wit that made the flicks what they were. Having a flea market rip off of him in this one wasn't enough to cut it. In fact, he was so over the top as a wannabe Sean William Scott that he only comes across as annoying.
I realize this is a comedy, but they could have at least tried to make it somewhat plausible. What camp of ANY kind has counselors who look like they came straight out of the pages of Playboy?
As I was watching this horrific excuse for a movie, I was sitting there trying to think of any straight to dvd sequel that I've ever seen that was worth watching. I couldn't. Bearing that in mind, I don't know why I thought this one would be any different. Its only saving grace was it's somewhat clever ending. Other than that, it was pretty much a waste of time. This one might as well be known as the taint of the "American Pie" series. And I mean that in more than one way.
My rating: D-
