Barbershop 2: Back in Business is a 2004 American comedy film directed by Kevin Rodney Sullivan and a sequel to the 2002 film Barbershop. The plot follows Calvin (Ice Cube), the owner of a barbershop in Chicago, as he struggles to keep the shop and its traditions alive against a changing neighborhood.
One of the main conflicts in the film involves Calvin's neighboring beauty shop, run by Gina (Queen Latifah), who is now trying to take some of Calvin's barbershop business. Calvin and Gina engage in a heated rivalry, which threatens to tear apart the tight-knit community of barbers and customers. The tension between Calvin and Gina also sets up a romantic subplot, as they begin to realize their strong attraction to each other.
Meanwhile, the barbershop faces an even greater threat from urban developers who plan to replace the mom-and-pop shops in the neighborhood with predictable, name-brand chains. Calvin and his fellow barbers must band together to fight this corporate takeover and show the importance of supporting small businesses and local community.
As in the first film, Barbershop 2 is full of witty banter, social commentary, and heartwarming moments. Cedric the Entertainer, Sean Patrick Thomas, and Eve are some of the returning cast members, while new additions include Michael Ealy and Kenan Thompson. The film grossed $65 million worldwide and received generally positive reviews from critics, with praise for its humor, performances, and poignant reflections on the power of community and tradition.