Directed by: Todd Phillips
Starring: Bradley Cooper, Ed Helms, Zach Galifianakis, Justin Bartha, and Ken Jeong
After more than a decade since the original Wolfpack stumbled through Las Vegas in a drunken haze, The Hangover Part IV (2025) crashes back into cinemas with the same chaotic energy, a few gray hairs, and—surprisingly—a little heart. Todd Phillips returns to direct this unexpected sequel, which reunites the original cast for one last ride… or misadventure.
Set years after the events of Part III, the story begins with Phil (Bradley Cooper), Stu (Ed Helms), and Alan (Zach Galifianakis) living relatively normal lives—until a surprise bachelor party gone wrong drags them back into a whirlwind of outrageous trouble. This time, the mayhem unfolds across multiple international locations, starting in Amsterdam and spiraling into chaos in Bangkok and back to Las Vegas, where it all began.
As expected, Zach Galifianakis steals the show once more as Alan, whose socially awkward antics and bizarre logic continue to fuel much of the film’s humor. Bradley Cooper’s Phil maintains his role as the reluctant leader, while Ed Helms' Stu delivers his usual nervous energy, balancing the group dynamic. Ken Jeong reprises his role as the unhinged Mr. Chow, this time with even more unpredictable consequences.
What makes Hangover 4 surprisingly effective is that it doesn’t try to replicate the exact formula of the first film. Instead, it leans into the idea that these characters have aged—and so has the comedy. While the movie still thrives on absurdity, drug-fueled confusion, and outlandish twists, it also offers a more reflective tone about friendship, growing older, and trying to let go of the past (even when the past won’t let go of you).
Of course, not every gag lands perfectly. Some jokes feel recycled, and a few outrageous moments verge on being too over-the-top, even for this franchise. But the pacing is tight, and the chemistry among the leads is undeniable. The film avoids becoming a caricature of itself, instead serving as a raucous, if sometimes nostalgic, farewell.
Todd Phillips brings a slick visual flair and keeps the energy high throughout. There’s enough new material to feel fresh, while still offering familiar callbacks that longtime fans will appreciate. A particularly wild twist involving a royal wedding, a missing monkey, and a stolen cryptocurrency wallet elevates the second act to the franchise’s classic level of absurd chaos.
In the end, The Hangover Part IV is not a reinvention of comedy, but it doesn’t have to be. It’s a funny, wild, and oddly touching reunion that reminds audiences why the Wolfpack became an icon of modern comedy. And yes—there’s another set of photos during the end credits you won’t want to miss.
