'Barbershop 2' a cut above most sequels

In a world full of shoddy sequels, "Barbershop 2: Back in Business" not only generates laughs constantly throughout, but stands to be one of the best comedic sequels ever.\n"Barbershop 2" opens acknowledging prominent black societal figures and trends, such as Martin Luther King Jr., Michael Jackson and the popular hair trend -- the Afro, all to the great beat of the Black Eyed Peas. The first scene begins with a flashback of Cedric the Entertainer's character, Eddie, before he began working in the barbershop. Flashbacks of his life are shown in bits and pieces throughout the film to bring more depth to his character beyond the wisecracking jokes. The flashbacks, including a scene that occurred after Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated, show the importance of Calvin's (Ice Cube) barbershop to the neighborhood and to black culture as a whole. \nIn the first film, Calvin fought against having to sell his barbershop. In the sequel, he has to fight for the barbershop again, but he also has to compete against Nappy Cutz, a franchise that has state of the art hair accessories and an indoor basketball court. Again, Calvin speaks up about the importance of the barbershop and tries to save both his business and the neighborhood from industrialization.\nThis film not only includes the original cast, but also introduces new characters who are also affected by the opening of Nappy Cutz. Gina (Queen Latifah) is introduced as a former girlfriend of Calvin's, who owns the salon next to his barbershop. Watch out for a spin-off called "Beauty Shop" starring Latifah. Before the movie started, there was already an advertisement for the spin-off, where you can expect the girls in her shop to talk about politics, men and well… men. \n"Barbershop 2" has an even better soundtrack than the original. In fact, as the end credits were rolling down the screen I was tempted not to leave only because the music was so energetic and rhythmic. Besides the Black Eyed Peas, there are also songs by Eve and Mary J. Blige, who released their single "Not Today" from the Barbershop 2 Soundtrack.\nCedric the Entertainer scores most of the laughs in this film, including his controversial political opinions such as calling the D.C. sniper, "the Jackie Robinson of crime." Besides providing laughs and an overtly wholesome message, viewers should expect a little romance as well. I would tell you who's involved, but I'd rather you go the theater and see for yourself -- it's worth it.