Sequels are generally dreaded by fans of a film. The plot is usually butchered, and the addition of new actors makes you question your unfaltering respect for the first film in the series.

“The Pink Panther 2” proves that it’s just like any other sequel.

Steve Martin returns as Inspector Jacques Clouseau, along with his partner Ponton, again played by Jean Reno. The film picks up right where the last one ended, Clouseau recovered the “Pink Panther” diamond and is now France’s most beloved police officer. The new chief inspector, however, has demoted him to writing parking tickets.

The always-clueless Clouseau does not seem to mind, as such, when he is called upon to be a member of the world’s “Dream Team” to solve recent crimes. He worries if the streets will be okay without his parking tickets.

Martin proves that even though he has aged — he’s 63 —, his humor is still very much alive. Any other actor would have gone insane talking in that ridiculous incorrect French accent. Martin, however, showed no dismay.

The plot, though, seems too elaborate for a kid’s movie.

If young viewers are not able to figure out the complexity of the plot, they surely will not be able to pick up on the adult humor. The word “sexy” is used numerous times throughout the movie as Clouseau and Nicole (Emily Mortimer) try to keep their love a secret. While Clouseau tries to brush off accusations of the romance, he makes a fool of himself in ways only adults can appreciate. That is not to say that this film deserves a higher rating; it is undoubtedly a kid’s movie.

This sequel has a tough act to follow, considering the fact that the first movie was hilarious. Although the latest film has some extremely funny parts, it simply cannot match its predecessor. Unfortunately, this is a problem with almost every sequel.

Whenever a humorous part in this film occurs, it is followed by a couple of boring scenes.

Unfortunately, those dry, dull scenes are the ones the audience is going to remember, not funny scenes such as when Clouseau repeatedly, however unknowingly, insults the pope.

“The Pink Panther 2” is a funny kids’ movie that is better off being rented.