Van Wilder 2: The Rise of Taj

Van Wilder 2: The Rise of Taj, directed by Mort Nathan and released in 2006, is a rollicking comedy sequel that takes away from the American college milieu of the original and thrusts its titular character, Taj Mahal Badalandabad, into the posh and elite environment of Cambridge University in England. The film is an enjoyable cocktail of rib-tickling humor, amorous escapades, and a wacky underdog story, providing an excellent showcase for actor Kal Penn's comic timing and charisma.

The narrative spins off from the character Taj introduced in the first Van Wilder film. As played by Kal Penn, Taj Mahal Badalandabad is a bright, audacious, and aspiring young man from Coolidge College who now sets his sights on pursuing his education and love for history at an institution synonymous with tradition and excellence—Cambridge University. While he's excited to turn a new leaf in his academic life, sweetened by the prospect of becoming a teaching assistant for his dream department, unforeseen situations lead him on a different path.

The quirky protagonist is met with a snub from the elitist members of the 'Fox and Hounds' society. Instead of the intellectual haven he'd dreamed about, Taj finds himself and his bulldog Balzac housed with a ragtag group of misfits in a run-down barn known as the 'Barn', which is owned by the university. The scorned underdogs form a familial bond, and Taj takes it upon himself to lead them. As an homage to his roots, they name their informal group the 'Cock and Bulls'.

The film really gets its momentum from the rivalry that heats up between the 'Fox and Hounds', who represent the arrogant and privileged students of the university, and the underdog 'Cock and Bull' society. This rivalry, however, isn't restricted to academics alone. It sprawls across various facets of college life, including sporting events and social prestige, and under Taj's guidanceship, the 'Cock and Bulls' challenge the status quo.

Among the members of the Fox and Hounds is the pompous Pipp Everett, the Earl of Grey, played by Daniel Percival, who becomes the antagonist to Taj’s character. Adding another layer to the plot is the romantic subplot involving Charlotte Higginson, played by Lauren Cohan. As the charming and intelligent daughter of the History Department's head and Pip’s girlfriend, Charlotte becomes the apple of Taj's eye. Their chemistry and Taj's pursuit of winning Charlotte's heart provides plenty of laugh out loud moments and ignites in Taj a resolve to succeed and show up the snobbish aristocrats, all encapsulated in a classic Brit meets Yank trope.

The plot of Van Wilder 2: The Rise of Taj is fundamentally about overcoming societal divisions, elitism, breaking stereotypes and cherishing diversity. The film features many elements of a typical college-based comedy – parties, romance, friendship, competition all interlaced with a steady stream of humor. What sets this story apart is its setting within the iconic British establishment steeped in centuries-old traditions and the ensuing culture-clash comedy, resulting in a truly hilarious Anglo-American mash-up.

Kal Penn impressively carries the film on his shoulders with his infectious enthusiasm, humor, and clever asides. His performance lives up to the promise of his character from the first film and adds more depth and likability to Taj. Supporting performances by Cohan and Percival add spice and energy to the narrative.

While Van Wilder 2: The Rise of Taj might appeal more to a teen to a young adult demographic, its humor and spirited storytelling make it an enjoyable watch for anyone that appreciates college comedies. The film interestingly integrates diverse elements into an entertaining view of college life, camaraderie forced by circumstance, bullying by elite clubs, and maintains throughout a lighthearted approach to the issues faced by the underdogs in society.

The movie takes its viewers on a wild ride, packed with laughter, emotions, and lessons about friendship, self-worth, love, and finding one’s own path in life. It's a spirited foray into the genre of comedy, ensuring that audiences enjoy themselves while they root for Taj and his motley crew in their journey towards unanticipated glory.