Following the first film, which grossed more than $140 million worldwide, this sequel finds John (Jack Lemmon) happily married to Ariel (Ann-Margret), with Max (Walter Matthau) alone and pining for companionship--the opportunity for which arrives in the statuesque form of Maria Ragetti (Sophen Loren), the new owner of the bait shop. Meanwhile, Max and John are coordinating the wedding of their children (Kevin Pollak and Daryl Hannah). When things go wrong, they blame each other and the once grumpy become grumpier; the results are more hilarious than ever.
   This nonstop-humor fest secures Lemmon and Matthau, the original "Odd Couple," a place with a new generation of movie fans and shows both that there's no age limit for comics and that comedy success doesn't demand nudity or vulgar behavior. (Although the razor-sharp double entendres of granddad Burgess Meredith steals the screen every time he's on.) A bonus as before, outtakes at movie's end make sitting through the closing credits mandatory. Starring Jack Lemmon, Walter Matthau, Ann-Margret and Sophia Loren. Directed by Howard Deutch. Written by Mark Steven Johnson. Produced by John Davis and Richard C. Berman. A Warner Bros. release. Comedy. Rated PG-13 for salty language and innuendoes. Running time: 101 min.