The Hangover Part III (2013)
Where to Watch
- Todd Phillips originally wanted a completely different ending for the film, but test audiences preferred the one we see today.
- Before Bradley Cooper was cast, several major A-list stars turned down the lead role because they felt the script was too risky.
- Many of the practical effects used in the climax were achieved without any CGI.
The Hangover Part III is a 2013 American comedy directed by Todd Phillips, the concluding chapter of the Hangover trilogy. Departing from the amnesia formula of the previous two films, Part III follows the Wolfpack as they attempt to manage Alan's increasingly erratic behavior by driving him to a rehabilitation facility in Arizona. En route, they are kidnapped by Marshall, a crime boss played by John Goodman, who forces them to track down Mr.
Chow, played by Ken Jeong, who has stolen $21 million in gold from him. The trail leads back to Las Vegas, bringing the trilogy full circle. Todd Phillips deliberately broke the franchise's formula, creating what was essentially a crime caper rather than a hangover mystery, a choice that divided audiences who expected the familiar blackout-reconstruction structure.
Zach Galifianakis's Alan and Ken Jeong's Chow were given expanded dramatic arcs alongside their comedy, with Alan's character receiving something approaching genuine emotional resolution through a romantic subplot. The film earned $362 million worldwide on a $103 million budget.
