It’s obvious that “Horrible Bosses 2” was only created because of the success of the previous film, “Horrible Bosses,” which was a crudely hilarious screwball comedy that featured great performances from both the talented leads and the supporting cast. In this mind-numbing sequel, however, there are only fragments of the charm exhibited by the original. Even strong acting performances can’t save a weak story. 

After escaping the tyranny of the bosses that drove them to near insanity, friends Nick (Jason Bateman), Dale (Charlie Day) and Kurt (Jason Sudeikis) decide to create their own business — peddling novelty shower accessories. Soon after meeting with wealthy businessman Bert (Christoph Waltz) and his tenacious son Rex (Chris Pine), the three friends discover that the two businessmen have scammed them out of their profits and essentially taken control of the company. Determined to keep themselves out of financial jeopardy, the three — along with ex-convict Dean Jones (Jamie Foxx) — hatch a plan to kidnap Rex and collect a ransom. Naturally, through a series of bizarre comedic mishaps, the plan goes awry.

“Horrible Bosses 2” desperately leans on its predecessor for support. Considering that two out of the three “horrible bosses” return in extended cameos, it becomes clear that the sequel borrows too many elements from the first film without adding any innovative ideas. Plus, plotting a kidnapping seems tame for the same group of men who were willing to commit murder in the first film.

The only elements added by director Sean Anders — like the shower business subplot and the new characters — feel flat and uninspired. Part of the charm of the first “Horrible Bosses” was how cruel and cartoon-like the antagonists were, but the new villains are just boring stereotypes of arrogant executives. 

The return of the crude humor seems unsavory a second time around. There are moments that induce instantaneous chuckles and a few belly laughs, but much of the improvised dialogue fails to translate. The sex jokes are constant, and even those who aren’t at all prudish will find the jokes uncomfortable and repetitive.

The acting is the only highlight, as it’s clear the chemistry between Bateman, Day and Sudeikis is impeccable. The characters they portray are a major issue, however, especially Day’s and Sudeikis’. While the duo played delightful, goofy screw-ups in the previous film, the follow-up regresses them to full-fledged morons. Waltz’s talent is tragically wasted as the older executive, but Pine has a few funny moments as the sociopathic son. While Jennifer Aniston’s return as the sex addicted dentist feels forced, Kevin Spacey’s reprisal as the ruthless Dave Harken is memorable. 

A clever concept motivated the original “Horrible Bosses,” but box office hits motivated this sequel. Lost in a weak story and tired humor, “Horrible Bosses 2” becomes another sequel that is ultimately meaningless and dull.