Thrower review 12/31

HHH (out of four)

In this much-anticipated sequel to the uber-hilarious "Meet the Parents," viewers are confronted with the eccentric parents of Ben Stiller's character, Gaylord Focker.

While the surprise success of "Meet the Parents" was primarily the result of the comic ability of Stiller juxtaposed with the dry, militant father-in-law played by Robert DeNiro, the comedy of "Meet the Fockers" is primarily rooted in the performances of Barbara Streisand and Dustin Hoffman as Roz and Bernie Focker.

Neither my wife nor I were too excited about the casting of Streisand, but the hilarity she provides as a geriatric sex therapist is more than enjoyable.

DeNiro's interaction with Stiller is lessened from the first film, and the senior actor's scenes as a grandfather, complete with poop sign language, strap-on breast and the infamous "circle of trust" are consistently funny.

Anybody can guess that this is a predictable movie, but the addition of Streisand and Hoffman works well. "Meet the Fockers" is a recipe for a light-hearted afternoon at the movies.