They say few sequels ever pass their predecessor. I always think back to that scene in Scream 2, where they're in the film class thinking about which film sequels surpasses its' original. With the exceptions of The Dark Knight, The Godfather: Part II, and Mission Impossible: Fallout. Its' rare to find a sequel that can out do its' creator.
Following the events of 1978's Halloween, comes its' 1981 sequel which picks up literally where the last one left one. One could even argue that both films are one big movie split into two with the way the narrative is told. It's continuation approach to the cinematic subject matter is actually one of its' biggest strengths. Few films ever explore the trauma that a night of serial killers can cause a victim. This aspect creates a new, welcoming and often times refreshing approach to the genre as a whole.
Following the narratives of Laurie Strode and Dr. Samuel Loomis, again, adds to the strength of the film. When the story is focusing specifically on these two characters, its' subject matter you can't take your eyes off of. While it is the film's strongest strengths, it also happens to be its' biggest flaw.
While its' predecessor was tight with its' story telling, this one unfortunately is filled with characters that don't get enough time to develop and often times just feel generic. There is one particular scene with Laurie Strode with her repressed memories that is overlooked to make way for throwaway characters. This film could had thrived by focusing on the twists between Strode & Myers rather than charming the audience with pointless arcs.
Overall, Halloween II (1981) does contain charm but its' sweetness is choked out by generic characters and pointless plots. This is a film that had some much potential but fell victims to the knife of its' antagonist, Michael Myers. However, that's not to say it doesn't have its' moments. When the film embraces its' mental health side it soars with flying colors. Not to mention terrific performances from Donald Pleasence and Jamie Lee Curtis, once again.
FINAL SCORE: 3/5
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Credits:
Music by Logan McElroy & Shawn Davis. The Flash and Man of Steel are all properties of DC Comcis & Warner Brothers Pictures. We do not own or claim any rights to them. The X-Files are property of Fox/Disney. We do not own or claim any rights. Halloween 2 is property of Universal Pictures. We do not own or claim any rights.