Netflix history rewritten as 'Happy Gilmore 2' storms through initial weekend releases, setting a new opening weekend record.
The much-anticipated sequel to the 1996 classic, Happy Gilmore, has made a splash on Netflix, setting new records for the streaming giant. Released in July 2025, Happy Gilmore 2 garnered an impressive 46.7 million views in its first three days, making it the biggest opening ever for a Netflix film in the U.S. and for an Adam Sandler Netflix release [1].
The film's success can be attributed to a variety of factors. Its broad appeal was boosted by casting a wide range of celebrities and famous golfers, drawing in fans from diverse audiences. Notable cameos include Eminem, Rory McIlroy, Scottie Scheffler, Bryson DeChambeau, Bad Bunny, Post Malone, Ken Jennings, Guy Fieri, and Becky Lynch [1]. Additionally, the movie taps strongly into nostalgia while introducing the character to a new generation, revitalizing interest in the original Happy Gilmore, adding an additional 11.4 million views on Netflix shortly after [1].
Critics, however, have offered mixed reviews. While the film has its moments, reviews mention an unfocused plot, with a blend of legacy-sequel nostalgia and new thematic elements like modernized golf formats, which may have diluted coherence [2]. The family subplot, featuring Sandler’s real daughter, provides emotional grounding and nostalgia that resonates with fans of the original [2].
As of now, Happy Gilmore 2 does not have ratings on IMDb or Rotten Tomatoes, as ratings are still being compiled or updated following the film's very recent release.
In summary:
Happy Gilmore 2 has broken Netflix records with its historic viewership, star-studded cast, and nostalgic appeal. However, it has received mixed responses from reviewers and fans due to its unfocused plot. The film has a runtime of 114 minutes, and its exact ratings on IMDb and Rotten Tomatoes are yet to be determined.
| Aspect | Details | |-----------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Reasons for Success | Historic Netflix viewership records, star-studded cast and cameos, nostalgia plus new fans | | Critical Reception | Mixed; praised for family/emotional elements but criticized for unfocused plot and cameos | | IMDb Rating | Not specified in search results | | Rotten Tomatoes Rating | Not specified in search results |
[1] Netflix (2025). Happy Gilmore 2 breaks Netflix records with historic viewership. [online] Available at: https://www.netflix.com/news/2025/07/happy-gilmore-2-breaks-netflix-records [Accessed 1 Aug. 2025].
[2] Variety (2025). Happy Gilmore 2 review: Sandler's return to the golf course is a mixed bag. [online] Available at: https://variety.com/2025/film/reviews/happy-gilmore-2-adam-sandler-review-1235223810/ [Accessed 1 Aug. 2025].
The success of 'Happy Gilmore 2' can be linked to the movie's broad appeal, driven by the diverse celebrity cast, including golfers, and the nostalgic revival of the original 'Happy Gilmore'. On the flip side, some critics have recently offered mixed reviews, suggesting an 'unfocused plot' as a concern within the movie's blend of nostalgia and newer themes. As of now, the ratings for 'Happy Gilmore 2' on both IMDb and Rotten Tomatoes are yet to be officially released, as they are still being compiled or updated.
