Movie Review: Pet Sematary II (1992)
Synopsis
"Pet Sematary II" is the 1992 sequel to Stephen King’s chilling horror film, "Pet Sematary". While it retains the thematic essence of the first film, it goes in a slightly different direction with its narrative and characters. The story takes place in the same desolate, eerie town of Ludlow, Maine, where the titular pet cemetery illustrates the notion of life and death—and the struggles therein.
The protagonist, Jeff Matthews, played by Edward Furlong, is a teenager who relocates to Ludlow with his mother, Renee (played by Clancy Brown). Jeff is still haunted by the tragic death of his beloved dog, which he buried in the local pet cemetery. Shortly after arriving, Jeff befriends Drew, the son of the town’s gravedigger, who becomes a significant ally as they navigate the horrors that lie in store.
The film’s plot kicks into gear when Jeff and Drew face the unbearable reality of death again following an incident where Drew’s mother, a former actress who is struggling with her identity and self-worth, loses her life in a tragic accident. In their grief, the boys resort to the titular burial ground, resurrecting those they have lost, including Drew’s mother. However, as with the first film, the return is not without dire consequences, leading to a series of violent and horrific events that culminate in tragedy and chaos.
While the film is somewhat more campy than its predecessor, it combines dark humour with the franchise’s hallmark themes of loss, resurrection, and the dire consequences of tampering with the natural order.
List of Actors and Their Characters
- Edward Furlong as Jeff Matthews
- Clancy Brown as Gus Gilbert
- Anthony Edwards as Joe Matthews
- Jason McGuire as Drew Gilbert
- Darlene Hart as Mrs. Brown
- Louise Fletcher as the nurse
- Marjean Holden as the actress (played Drew’s mother, who becomes a pivotal character in the plot)
Conclusion
"Pet Sematary II" acknowledges the dark themes set forth by its predecessor but veers into a quirkier tone that makes it a unique addition to the franchise. Edward Furlong leads a capable cast, but it is Clancy Brown’s performance as the morally ambiguous Gus Gilbert that truly captivates. The film blends horror with black comedy in intriguing ways—turning what could have been a standard sequel into a more introspective examination of grief, adolescent angst, and the perils of yearning for resurrection.
Though the film may not quite reach the haunting heights of the original "Pet Sematary," it still offers both engaging moments and horrific spectacle for fans of the genre. Its blend of themes, captivating performances, and chilling atmosphere compel a viewer to reconsider the issues of death and longing, albeit in a sometimes less-than-serious manner.
"Pet Sematary II" may not always walk a coherent line, and the tonal shifts can be jarring for those expecting a direct continuation of its predecessor. Still, it remains a captivating piece that carries enough intrigue and thematic weight to warrant a viewing.
For its compelling yet flawed portrayal of life’s fragility and the dark humour present in death’s aftermath, I would rate "Pet Sematary II" a 7 out of 10. It is a commendable yet strange sequel that deserves its spot within the horror canon, appealing to those willing to embrace its campiness alongside its genuine scares.
