Halloween Kills (2021) – Film Review
Synopsis:
In the direct sequel to 2018’s "Halloween," "Halloween Kills" resumes the nightmarish saga of Michael Myers, the embodiment of unrelenting terror. Set directly in the aftermath of the climactic confrontation between Laurie Strode (Jamie Lee Curtis) and her long-time tormentor, the movie explores the consequences of a solitary man’s insatiable thirst for bloodshed.
The film opens with a flashback to 1978, centreing on the events leading up to Michael Myers’s first attack, while simultaneously bringing the audience back to the present day in Haddonfield. Laurie has been hospitalised due to her wounds, and as a community grapples with their trauma, Michael escapes once more. This unleashes a new wave of violence, as a group of townsfolk, galvanised by the idea of finally putting an end to the horror, embarks on a vengeful hunt for Michael.
Meanwhile, Laurie’s daughter Karen (Judy Greer) steps up to play a pivotal role in fighting back against their shared nemesis, while her granddaughter Allyson (Andi Matichak) becomes a target of Michael’s lethal pursuit. Throughout the film, various townspeople—a mix of familiar faces and new characters—form an alliance, believing they can collectively overcome the evil that has haunted Haddonfield for decades. The narrative intertwines themes of courage and fear, as well as examining how trauma can linger, profoundly affecting individual lives and communities.
List of Actors and Their Characters:
- Jamie Lee Curtis as Laurie Strode
- Judy Greer as Karen Nelson
- Andi Matichak as Allyson Nelson
- Will Patton as Deputy Frank Hawkins
- Thomas Mann as Lonnie Elam
- Anthony Michael Hall as Tommy Doyle
- Kyle Richards as Lindsey Wallace
- Nancy Stephens as Marion Chambers
- Jibrail Nantambu as Marcus
- Vanessa H. as a nurse
- Rob Niter as an officer
Review:
"Halloween Kills" takes a bold but polarising turn in the beloved horror franchise, leaning heavily into themes of collective trauma and the cycle of violence that can consume a community. Following on from David Gordon Green’s "Halloween" (2018), this instalment weaves a rich tapestry of nostalgia while struggling to carve out its narrative niche without feeling repetitive or stale.
Firstly, the film’s direction excels in balancing its ambitious scope and the nostalgia that overhauls the franchise. Green’s approach to the visual language of horror is apparent throughout; the framing is tight, the shadows are oppressive, and the brutality is unflinching. The returns to form for some beloved characters, like Marion Chambers (Nancy Stephens) and Tommy Doyle (Anthony Michael Hall), inject a much-needed dose of nostalgia while also creating a bridge between the multi-decade lore of the series. These scenes bring an emotional weight, as the reappearance of these characters highlights how childhood trauma can linger and shape adult lives.
The focus on the community’s collective struggle against Michael Myers is both innovative and troubling. The film explores how fear can morph into mob mentality, leading to irrational behaviour and tragic consequences. This theme might resonate with contemporary audiences; however, the execution sometimes feels heavy-handed. Characters rallying together and forming groups to chase the ‘Boogeyman’ becomes a critique of how individuals can sometimes be swept away by collective fear.
The performances are notably commendable. Jamie Lee Curtis delivers a heart-wrenching portrayal of a woman grappling with her own trauma while fighting for her family. Her character’s strength comes through even while confined to a hospital bed, showcasing a fierce tenacity that propels the narrative forward. Judy Greer steps into a more significant role than in the previous instalment, bringing depth and nuance to Karen, a mother torn between her past and her daughter’s safety. Meanwhile, Andi Matichak continues to shine as Allyson, embodying a mix of youthful defiance and vulnerability.
Michael Myers, portrayed with terrifying finesse by Nick Castle and James Jude Courtney, remains an impenetrable force. The film cleverly utilises his invincibility and brutal creative kill style as a reflection on the horror genre itself. Each kill is more audacious than the last, reminiscent of artistically choreographed ballets of death. However, one must wonder if the relentless glorification of violence undermines its horror significance. The spectacle often overshadows the narrative threads that could have provided a more visceral emotional impact.
Despite its well-executed horror elements and thematic explorations, "Halloween Kills" suffers from pacing issues. The second act feels a bit drawn out, with numerous side plots that occasionally detract from the primary narrative drive. The heavy themes of mob justice might resonate with viewers, but they need a tighter focus to maintain emotional intensity and audience investment. Scenes that delve into the lives of various townsfolk sometimes feel like they elongate the film unnecessarily rather than add substance to the central conflict.
Moreover, the film culminates with a somewhat divisive ending that leaves viewers questioning its direction for the next instalment. While cliffhangers can galvanise a fan base, this particular conclusion may leave some feeling frustrated rather than intrigued. The anticipation generated for a potential resolution feels overshadowed by unresolved narratives and character arcs that feel incomplete or unfinished, raising doubts about the series’ trajectory.
In conclusion, "Halloween Kills" adeptly marries horror with critical social themes, giving audiences a fresh perspective on the franchise’s longstanding evils. The standout performances anchor the film, providing emotional weight, yet the film is not without its shortcomings. Its ambitious themes sometimes lack the tight weaving necessary to resonate profoundly, and the excessive focus on violent spectacle can detract from a potentially more powerful narrative. Overall, while "Halloween Kills" has recounting moments that make it a worthwhile entry, it also poses questions about the legacy of the "Halloween" franchise moving forward.
Score: 7/10
The film is undeniably flawed yet filled with moments of brilliance. Amongst the carnage, "Halloween Kills" shines a light on the shadows of human experience—the struggle, the pain, and the community rallying to survive against an insatiable evil.
