Josh (Patrick Wilson) managed to save his son after the events of Insidious, but something seems to still be going on, and Josh is acting very strange . . .
Directed by master horror director James Wan (The Conjuring, Saw), Insidious Chapter 2 continues the haunting of the Lambert family directly from the first film. This time, though, the mythology is greatly expanded and the threats to the family are much greater. Josh is acting very odd, as well . . .
Following up the surprisingly good Insidious seemed like a challenge that would be daunting to even the most daring of directors. Thankfully, Wan decided to follow up his own movie and actually made a film that may not be better than the first, but is actually on par with it. In fact, from a pure enjoyment standpoint, I enjoyed Insidious Chapter 2 more than Insidious. The long, drawn out introductions to the characters have been done away with and the film actually moves at a better pace with the action beginning almost immediately. Strap yourselves in, because you are not given time to breathe from the opening of the film.
Normally, at this point in my reviews, I describe a little bit about the plot of the film. This review is not going to have that due to the spoiler issues. If you have seen any of the trailers for the film (there is one at the end of this review), they are purposefully vague. As such, so is this review. I was pleasantly surprised by this film and do not want to spoil that for you.
This is a very difficult review to write without being able to discuss plot points. Just know that there was nothing glaring that I had a big problem with. I quite enjoyed the film and if you liked the first, you will like this one. It is a direct continuation that almost feels more like a thriller than a haunted house film. Of course, the supernatural elements are here in spades as well as the chills inherent in Wan’s films.
Insidious Chapter 2 is one of those rare sequels that is just as good as the film that preceded it. While I wouldn’t call it terrifying, it is certainly creepy as all get out. Once again, Wan has proven that he is simply a master of supernatural horror films. I expect him to stumble one day, as every director does, but he did not here. With every film he makes, I become more and more excited about his future projects. I will be more excited when he inevitably returns to horror.
*** out of ****
BIZZAM!! Fun Facts!
- When Josh throws something at Renai (Rose Byrne) and hits her, she falls over. When she hits the ground, you can see the wig the stunt person was wearing fall off their head.
- Lin Shaye reprises her role, even though she was killed in the first film. You have to watch the film to find out how and why.
- The film does explain why Josh was not arrested after killing Elise at the end of the first film.
- The Director of Photography, John R. Leonetti, is directing the prequel to The Conjuring, currently titled Annabelle.
