Magic Mike’s Last Dance
review by Bobby Blakey

In 2012 Channing Tatum teamed up with director Stephen Soderbergh for the flick Magic Mike loosely based on Tatum’s real life as an exotic dancer. The film was a major success and spawned the sequel Magic Mike XXL in 2015. Now they are reteaming once again for another entry into the popular series with Magic Mike’s Last Dance co-starring Salma Hayek Pinault. Could this be a performance returning to the stage for or will it miss its que?
Magic Mike’s Last Dance follows “Magic” Mike Lane takes to the stage again after a lengthy hiatus, following a business deal that went bust, leaving him broke and taking bartender gigs in Florida. For what he hopes will be one last hurrah, Mike heads to London with a wealthy socialite who lures him with an offer he can’t refuse…and an agenda all her own. With everything on the line, once Mike discovers what she truly has in mind, will he—and the roster of hot new dancers he’ll have to whip into shape—be able to pull it off?
Despite me not being the real demographic for these films I would be lying if I said I didn’t enjoy the first two. The first was fun, but had that serious dark tone to it as it took us on the journey into this world and their lives. The second film had more of the same, but was a lot more light hearted and a lot more fun. This latest entry was spawned by the development of the real life stage show of Magic Mike and brings yet another tone to the franchise. It is a pretty different film from the first one in a lot of ways, but also serves as a interesting evolution to Mike’s journey.
I was really looking forward to see how they were going to deal with this new direction and I did enjoy it, but have to say it is my least favorite of the
series. What makes it work more than anything is the chemistry between Hayek and Tatum that heats up the screen out the gate and then just works to carry the rest of the film. As strong as it is though things just aren’t the same without the rest of the guys around. They are all so diverse and fun to watch that the banter and relationship they have helped to get you more invested in Mike’s journey. There is an element of them here, but it was kind of weak and sadly didn’t do them justice in my opinion. I understand he was trying to do something new here and it does work just felt their presence lost.
The dancers that do populate this movie are unsurprisingly awesome with each bringing their own style and look to the table. When the performances and the training montages are happening the film is at its best, but it did feel like fewer than previous films. I give big props to the finale show as it brings it all to the stage and gives each of them a chance to shine as well as lets Tatum remind the world that he is the real deal on the dance floor and has not lost a step.
The story is fine and delivers what it sets out to do. I have no doubt the audience that is eager to see this will likely enjoy it for various reasons, but just keep in mind of the changes that give it just a different vibe which isn’t necessarily bad just different. I still enjoyed the film and think it’s worth checking out if you are fan of the previous films.
In addition to the film, this release offers up bonus content including deleted scenes and a featurette taking fans on a journey with Mike’s moves. Hit the dance floor one more time and grab your copy of Magic Mike’s Last Dance available now on digital and then on Blu-ray and DVD on April 18th from Warner Bros Home Entertainment.