Hamptonites Jump the Shark in 'Sharknado 2: The Second One'

Last night, Syfy premiered the highly anticipated Sharknado 2: The Second One, the sequel to last year’s (intentional?) schlock-fest, Sharknado.

Again starring Hollywood greats Ian Ziering and Tara Reid as heroic former surfing champ Fin and bestselling author April, Sharknado 2 focuses on a highly volatile twister that is so strong it grabs thousands of sharks out of the ocean, unleashing them on Manhattan. Fin, who saved Los Angeles from a similar tragedy last year, is on his way to Manhattan with April, who is signing copies of her new book, How to Survive a Sharknado, and finds himself once again assembling makeshift bombs and freon tanks to launch into the seemingly unstoppable storm. As if the riveting plot isn’t enough to keep you hooked, Sharknado 2 also features a ton of cameos, including several East Enders.

Water Mill’s Matt Lauer is featured prominently as himself throughout the film, as he and Al Roker report on the increasingly dangerous storm. Lauer takes the film very seriously and is able to show off some major heroics toward the end of when a shark lands on set. Bridgehampton’s Kelly Ripa also plays herself, appearing on Live With Kelly and Michael. Ripa and co-host Michael Strahan are disappointed when Reid’s character is unable to make her guest appearance due to unforeseen circumstances (no spoilers!). Playing against type is frequent Hamptons visitor Andy Dick as an irate cop who thinks the whole idea of a “sharknado” is preposterous. And Bay Street Theater’s recent Travesties star Richard Kind makes a memorable appearance as a washed-out Mets player who finally gets his chance to hit one out of the park when Citi Field is hit with catastrophe.

Syfy is sure to air Sharknado 2: The Second One throughout the next few weeks, so check your local listings. What did you think of the film? Who were your favorite cameos? Let us know in the comments section.