Movie Review: Wishmaster 2: Evil Never Dies (1999)
Synopsis:
"Wishmaster 2: Evil Never Dies" is the 1999 sequel to the horror-fantasy film "Wishmaster" (1997). Directed by Jack Sholder, the film continues the tale of the malevolent Djinn, a demonic being that grants wishes but twists them with dark consequences. In the sequel, the Djinn, played by Andrew Divoff, is freed from his prison and embarks on a mission to reclaim his power and unleash his sinister will upon the world.
The story follows a convict named Morty, played by emissive actor, who has somehow managed to possess the mystical gemstone that contains the Djinn, inadvertently reviving him. The Djinn seeks to find his true master, Alex, a woman who has the unique ability to resist his enticements. After a series of gruesome and twisted moments where he grants wishes that lead to horrific outcomes, it becomes a race against time as Alex and her newfound ally, a detective named Detective McCarthy, played by Michael Deak, attempt to outwit the Djinn before he can realise his ultimate destructive ambitions.
Through a series of shocking and sometimes darkly comedic events, the film explores themes of desire, manipulation, and the duality of wishes. It presents a chaotic world where the consequences of one’s desires manifest in unpredictable and terrifying ways, showcasing the Djinn’s manipulative prowess.
List of Actors and Characters:
- Andrew Divoff as The Djinn
- Paulina Porizkova as Alex
- Michael Deak as Detective McCarthy
- Chris Lemmon as Morty
- Alina Brol as Reporter
- David Warner as The Priest
- J.R. Starr as The Collector
- Greg Nicotero as The Devil
Review:
"Wishmaster 2: Evil Never Dies" takes a significant departure from its predecessor, transforming the original’s raw horror into a more grotesque yet entertaining narrative laced with supernatural elements. Divoff reprises his role as the Djinn, and his commanding performance steals the show. He brings a sinister charisma to the character—a demonic entity capable of delivering both terror and darkly humorous lines with equal finesse.
The film is not without its flaws, yet it offers a blend of horror, fantasy, and camp that can be distinctly enjoyable if approached with the right mindset. The damaged but compelling relationships and conflicts between characters offer moments of depth amidst the chaos of the Djinn’s mounting body count. It is intriguing to witness how the filmmakers develop Alex’s character, pushing her into a position of pivotal importance as the Djinn attempts to persuade her to voice her deepest desires.
While the narrative may lack the concise storytelling of the first installment, "Wishmaster 2" compensates with an ambitious exploration of the Djinn’s traits and abilities. The creative team behind the film significantly ups the ante in terms of visual effects, showcasing some genuinely imaginative and horrific wish fulfilments. From financially cynical pleas to painfully violent outcomes, the power of wishes proves to be a terrifying force. Conceptually, exploring the dark side of ambition and desire adds layers to the lore surrounding the Djinn—something that feels fitting in a film that revels in the grotesque surreal.
The locales, ranging from seedy prison yards to ornate, gothic settings, prove an engaging backdrop for the chaos that unfolds. The cinematography and special effects present some creative and engaging sequences that accentuate the horror-comedy aspects of the film. The bizarre embodiments of punishment for each wish gone wrong often elicit both laughs and shudders, capturing the film’s essence. For those familiar with horror-anthology formats, the episodic style of the film resembles a series of interconnected shorts woven together by the cunning machinations of the Djinn.
However, the film’s pacing leaves something to be desired. Moments of suspense are often punctuated by lulls, undermining the tension built during pivotal scenes. The character arcs, particularly for those supporting characters without significant development, feel rushed and somewhat two-dimensional. Expecting too much in the way of conventional characterisation may be a detriment to enjoying this film—audiences are better off embracing the chaotic energy it brings.
The more pronounced comedic elements in "Wishmaster 2" can at times detract from the horror atmosphere. Some instances come across as mishaps, coupling the absurd with horror in a manner that feels disjointed. Yet, for those familiar with cult horror, the absurdity might contribute to its charm, retaining a unique foothold in the genre that gained a following for its ironic combination of gore and humour.
Divoff’s compelling performance as the Djinn is undeniably the highlight of "Wishmaster 2." He is a villain for the ages, embodying the essence of temptation and destruction wrapped in enchantment. His interactions with Alex and the supporting characters range from cacophonous laughter to unbridled terror, displaying a versatility that elevates the material. Porizkova’s portrayal of Alex is effective yet somewhat lacklustre; her role could have benefitted from more depth and backstory to create a stronger emotional connection with the audience.
In terms of production values, "Wishmaster 2" benefits from an expansive budget that allows for more elaborate scenes and special effects than its predecessor. The practical effects, a hallmark of late 90s horror, afford the film a timeless quality, forcing viewers to appreciate the artistry involved. The combination of the grotesque effects with the campy dialogues creates a distinctive atmosphere that could delight fans of genre cinema.
The sound design is also worth noting, complementing the eerie visuals by immersing the audience into the Djinn’s chaotic reign. The film’s score, filled with chilling notes and jolting crescendos, plays a crucial role in building tension and crafting a foreboding ambience throughout the narrative.
In conclusion, "Wishmaster 2: Evil Never Dies" is an entertaining sequel that embraces its campy and grotesque nature. It manages to deliver a unique blend of horror and humour, though it may fall short in terms of pacing and fully fleshing out its characters. Andrew Divoff’s performance as the Djinn is an undeniable standout, rendering the film a delightful feast for those who appreciate horror-fantasy with a twist.
Overall, despite its shortcomings, the film stands as a decent entry in the franchise, providing audiences with thrills and chills that may satisfy fans of supernatural horror. Therefore, I would rate "Wishmaster 2: Evil Never Dies" a score of 6 out of 10. It may not reach the heights of cinematic greatness, but it provides enough twisted entertainment to warrant a watch, especially for those adventurous enough to explore its darkly whimsical world.
