SCREAM 2 (**1/2)
(First Reviewed: 6/15/04)
Like the original SCREAM film, the characters know the rules of horror flicks — even the rules of horror sequels. Higher body count and more gore. This "rule" typically ruins other horror sequels and succeeds in doing the same with SCREAM 2…
You might be able to guess the killer(s), but you'll never guess why. The film does have some intelligence. I liked the classroom debate about films influencing behavior, the talk about sequel clichés and the identity of the killer was pretty ingenious, especially the killers' line explaining their motivation.
As well, the movie within the movie was kind of funny, especially Tori Spelling and Luke Wilson's part. What SCREAM 2 really lacks is real scares. Though SCREAM sometimes relied on the loud sound effects and someone jumping into frame, at times, SCREAM 2 relies on it for all its scares. No scene in the film even comes close to the brilliantly constructed scare fest that starts off the first flick…
The overall film is really hit or miss. Some parts are good, but those scenes are surrounded by a lot of average stuff. I recommend this to horror and/or SCREAM fans only.
* Upon Further Review: (***)
I still agree for the most part with what I said in my original review, however after seeing the film a second time I had far less problems with its flaws and enjoyed its good parts even more. First and foremost the film is smart, especially about horror film franchises. I credit this quality to screenwriter Kevin Williamson, whose self-referential style is funny and intelligent.
Though this film isn’t as tense or suspenseful as the original, it does have its moments — enough moments to recommend the film. The opening sequence at the movie premiere played a lot better the second time I saw it. I also really liked some of the new characters that were added.
My enjoyment of this film was only heightened after seeing SCREAM 3, which is total crap. That film just highlighted everything that is great about the first two films in the series, because they are all missing from the third film. Reviewing films is not a perfect science and opinions can surely change. Sometimes it takes a bad movie to make you appreciated a flawed, but good film much, much more.
Rick DeMott
Animation World Network
Creator of Rick's Flicks Picks
