Most movies rip women apart through their inferior, objectified portrayal, but “Neighbors 2: Sorority Rising” breathed fresh hope for feminist viewers.

“Neighbors 2” focuses on go getter freshman Shelby, who tries to create her own sorority after discovering none of the existing ones can throw their own parties. Soon after attending her very first fraternity party, Shelby raises an army against her college’s sexist boys, vowing to never again wear skimpy clothing or bow to their commands.

Ironically, the new sorority, Kappa Nu, flourishes with help from former frat brother Teddy Sanders, portrayed by Zac Efron. When the girls explained to Teddy why they wanted to have their own parties, Teddy asked them what was so wrong with the current fraternity parties. But as he listed off the past themes his fraternity had, he realized they all gave women bad connotations. Over time, Teddy begins to understand the stigma women undergo and defends their honor.

The Kappa Nu girls kick butt in their endeavors to stay afloat and battle against their “old people” neighbors. This new sorority shows what it is like to be a strong, determined girl in a condescending society. By the end, you are filled to the brim with girl power and feel unstoppable.

Additionally, “Neighbors 2” explores another common college theme: Having to grow up. Teddy struggles moving on and finding his place in the world post college graduation. Helping the girls get Kappa Nu on its feet brings him back to his glory days, but he soon realizes he is no longer “cool”. Yet, Teddy does not fit in with the “old people” either.

“Neighbors 2” stuck out from other movies with its use of visual effects. For example, when the Kappa Nu girls decide to vote Teddy out of the house, their texts are shown on the screen in little pop up speech bubbles. They also used a slideshow to reveal the sorority rules.

Since this is a sequel movie, it raises the bar even higher and gives it something to be compared to. “Neighbors 2” did a good job of picking up the pieces where the first movie ended and filling in viewers who had not seen the original movie. While it had a similar plot line, it was still unique.

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