Kstrouse

Haunt-tober 22, Day 10: Relic

Posted on October 10, 2022August 11, 2023 by Kstrouse

Alright, beasties. It’s that time of year again. For this edition of Haunt-tober, I’m going to do a post a day but, like a great haul after trick or treating, I’m hoping to mix it up and deliver some surprises. There’ll be reviews, new or old, seen/unseen, TV or film. Depending on my wicked mood, there may also be lists, audio, or video. I hope you’ll enjoy it and remember: stay weird.

While a bit too heavy-handed in the employment of its central theme, Relic ultimately crafts a uniquely disturbing picture from both a human perspective and a supernatural one.

When Kay’s (Emily Mortimer) mother Edna (Robyn Nevin) goes missing she heads there with her daughter Sam (Bella Heathcote). As someone who lives alone and suffers from dementia, the two search and waits, unsure of where the matriarch could be. A few days later she reappears and doesn’t seem shaken by the occurrence, but the doctor recommends she not be alone for a couple of weeks. Edna’s fragile mindset continues to get worse, and her behavior is increasingly erratic. She’s unsure if her family is in fact her family, and as she continues to lose herself, it leaves the audience wondering if there’s something else happening. Something inherently sinister.

Co-writer/director Natalie Erika James finds the scares in the discomfort, in the shadows ad the darkened rooms of the house. In the sadness for years passed, and the delicacy of life. There are a lot of moments that are genuinely creepy and simultaneously heartbreaking. Relic builds a foreboding presence that settles into the gloomy home that is deteriorating around them.

After what starts as a slow-burn piece about family and aging eventually takes on a new skin, one that’s shrouded in dark corners, secret rooms that never seem to end (it becomes a dizzying maze), and a volatile and haunting version of Edna. The three generations of women in the film are all exceptional, and a feature debut from Natalie Erika James Relic is incredibly encouraging, and I look forward to seeing what she does next.

The practical effects utilized and the excellent production design are both immensely strong, with some shots that’ll have you covering your eyes, and yet not able to look away.

Hauntingly imagined, Relic doesn’t execute a lot in the form of subtleties, but it overcompensates in its message and makes up for it in poignancy and unforgettable imagery.

Haunt-tober 22, Day 9: Dead Alive (Brain Dead)

Posted on October 9, 2022August 11, 2023 by Kstrouse

Alright, beasties. It’s that time of year again. For this edition of Haunt-tober, I’m going to do a post a day but, like a great haul after trick or treating, I’m hoping to mix it up and deliver some surprises. There’ll be reviews, new or old, seen/unseen, TV or film. There may also be lists, audio, or video, depending on my wicked mood. I hope you’ll enjoy it and remember: stay weird.

As this film was discussed on a podcast with my other film site, it made me realize that it was really quite the faux pas that I hadn’t yet discussed as such a seminal film in my young childhood foray into the genre. Which film am I referring to? Of course one from the iconic Peter Jackson! It’s got a zombie-esque Sumatran rat-monkey, so much of a delightful comedic center, and plenty of gore, it’s almost a crime not to discuss.

Dead Alive (also known as Brain Dead) was a film I saw as a kid, and its absurd unrelenting dive into bloody and outrageous horror, combining stop motion, gross-out moments, strange humor, and copious amounts of blood, won me over.

Dead Alive is in many ways, an embodiment of my intro to horror, this was a movie I watched with my immediate family, extended family, and then family friends, because it was just so memorable that I had to share it. Haven’t seen it? Here you go! It feels like a staple of its time, and it is also it just so iconic, that it can’t be mentioned.

Dead Alive follows the earnest Lionel Cosgrove (Timothy Balme) who wants to appease his mother, not unlike Norman Bates, but is also looking for love, and he’s found it in Paquita Maria Sanchez (Diana Peñalver) who is looking for it directly from her grandmother’s predictions. It isn’t a perfect fairy tale match, but these two are destined in some way. From here, there is a monkey bite from human bite to bite, with numerous victims, and suddenly Lionel has a basement of zombie-like compadres.

As LOTR’s may be Peter Jackson’s magnum opus (thus far) this was an early ode to comical, bloody fun. This is a zombie classic with limbs falling off (into soup no less), a lawnmower as a weapon, and sweet, sweet, romance. Oh, and a rapid rat monkey that’s out for blood. Don’t get too close. It’s got this grainy, b-horror vibe that reminds me of my first VHS watch (yes I’m dating myself). I personally find that comforting. There’s also an undeniable effervescent energy to it that bounces from scene to scene.

It’s got mayhem and it doesn’t shy from its full frontal crimson-stained attack. This is complete camp, absolute gore, and entirety a love letter to horror in all of its generational and various forms. This is both nostalgic and also just plain fun from a stellar director who clearly had a blast working on it.

Dead Alive has killer effects, and eccentric hilarity, and thrives through Jackson’s passion. This is a must-see for any horror-comedy fan.

Dead Alive is currently available on VOD (finally)

Haunt-tober 22, Day 8: Significant Other

Posted on October 8, 2022August 11, 2023 by Kstrouse

While many were probably watching the Hellraiser yesterday, I was watching this newly dropped Paramount+ film that seemed to have gotten no attention or advertisements beyond those within its own app (that I saw). It stars horror queen (at this point, she has stepped into that role) Maika Monroe and the generally charming Jake Lacy. It’s mostly a picture that takes place in the Oregon Woods and primarily focuses on this couple, making it an isolated film that digs into its science fiction and horror inspirations. It reminds me to some degree of another under-seen film: Honeymoon.

The two are Ruth and Harry, headed into the woods for a romantic camping and hiking trip. Ruth is hesitant about the endeavor, filled with anxiety about the trek. In the opening shot of the film, we see a strange orange object rocketing from the sky and entering the woods. We know that’s where they are headed, and thus, that it’s not spelling happy-go-lucky times, but our leads are completely unaware.

This is a tightly wound thriller that really benefits from its star leads who carry the film and keep us invested. Despite it being a limited locale, there’s a depth that stretches within these tall trees and between our two leads. Harry wants to get married, and Ruth wants things to stay as they are. But, beyond their own relationship is a growing evil in the wilderness around them, lurking and spreading. At first, it’s witnessed by a deer split in two and covered in what appears to be black sludge. Personally, I’d be hightailing it out of there after such a bizarre and disturbing find, but they continue with their plans.

When things don’t go quite as well with an engagement as Harry had hoped, other things start feeling a little off. There’s something amiss here, and who and what is at the center is at first unsure, but the twist is worth waiting for. Especially because Monroe and Lacy keep us engaged and are both eventually, eerily… off. It keeps you guessing. Against the gorgeous background of the Pacific Northwest woods, Significant Other creates an atmospheric and dreary sensation that tricks you into it seeming simple but eventually proves to be a tense, thrill ride with some hidden tricks up its sleeve.

Co-directors Dan Berk and Robert Olsen create a not entirely original but intriguing cinematic experience. It doesn’t reinvent the mold, but it is a worthy addition to the genre, and more should uncover its secrets. I also love the considerable lore by its conclusion, which even leans into a sequel. Or, just further thought upon its credits. Maybe it’s the science fiction fan in me, but I love a little (in locale), and that turns out to be a lot (in the scope and impact of the world). Also, less is so often, inevitably more. Some of the exposition in the third act didn’t all work, but still kept me very enthralled. Also, sign me up for anything Maika Monroe does, because she’s a consistent force.

The fantastic performances from Monroe and Lacy and the twisty fashion of the science fiction/horror yarn unspool into a heady trip with an earned payoff.

Significant Other is streaming on Paramount+

Haunt-tober 22, Day 7: Carrie (1976)

Posted on October 7, 2022August 11, 2023 by Kstrouse

Mean girls, a zealot mother, mental powers, and a prom Queen title to win, what could go wrong?

In our first introduction to Carrie White (Sissy Spacek) we learn not only how cruel school girls can be (as if we didn’t know), but also how much she’s spent her life unaware and untaught by her mother (Piper Laurie). It’s a lonely place, and despite what is to come (and what she becomes), Spacek’s iconic, nominated performance ensures the audience sympathizes with her plight.

Her abusive mother, on the other hand, doesn’t seem to share in our empathy. Most of the students don’t either, except for one, Sue, who makes the plan to have her boyfriend Tommy take Carrie to the prom. Others, though, have a different plot. Meanwhile, Carrie realizes she has some telekinetic powers brewing and begins to read up on them.

This movie begins and continues to dip into a whimsical, near fairy tale feel with its soft-focus look. Which, in contrast with its deep cuts of horror, really draws a stark duality. For a moment, Carrie feels like she’s in a dream, and then, it’s right back to a nightmare. The dread that you feel never leaves your stomach, and it doesn’t for me even after having watched it countless times.

If you somehow have gone through life having not seen Brian DePalma’s classic Stephen King adaptation, I would remedy it right away. Undoubtedly though, you’ve seen or heard of what happens. When Carrie becomes especially emotional, angry, scared, and upset, good things don’t happen. And Carrie White goes very…dark. The film is really fantastically done, from every side, including its editing to its score, and the way it makes you feel hope before ripping it away.

This most likely won’t be the last King mention this month, and while it’s a tough thing for me to say a favorite this is definitely one of the best adaptations. It’s also the first book of his that I read. It spawned a sequel and a couple of remakes, none of which compare or speak to the lasting impact of the original.

There’s a power in Carrie, because 46 years later and it’s still breaking our hearts, and remains ingrained in our psyches as a horror film with a terrifying lens that is focused on the tragedy of what happened to Carrie White, not what she did.

Oh yeah, and it is one hell of a revenge thriller too.

Carrie is available on VOD.

Haunt-tober 22, Day 6: The Midnight Meat Train

Posted on October 6, 2022August 11, 2023 by Kstrouse

Gruesome, dirty, strange: I love it.

The Midnight Meat Train is one of my favorite “hidden” horrors. I don’t honestly know how most people I meet haven’t heard of it, but it just delivers another opportunity for me to unleash this monster. I shared it with my father and it’s become a frequent rewatch for him and his friends this time of year.

Based on a short story from Clive Barker, and directed by Ryûhei Kitamura, Meat Train follows Leon (Bradley Cooper) a struggling photographer looking for his big break. When he has an opportunity to impress, he wanders the streets of NYC at night looking to capture something different and honest and well, dark, about the city.

When in the subway at night he sees some men trying to assault a woman and gets them to leave. From there he sees her enter the late-night train. At first, he’s assured by his girlfriend Maya (Leslie Bibb) that he’s definitely found his “thing”, but then notices in the paper that this same girl has gone missing, which strikes a different sort of intention.

source: Lionsgate, Lakeshore Entertainment

From there begins a spiral into obsession, especially when he sees another individual who catches his attention. Straight-faced, stern, intimidating butcher Mahogany (Vinnie Jones) catches Leon taking his photo, but it doesn’t deter the young artist from following him further. He tracks him to his home in a hotel, his work, and his usual nightly ride on the subway.

What first seems like idle curiosity turns into a theory about all the disappearances that have occurred in the city and a connection to this mysterious stranger. Leon has nightmares of a subway car, he can’t stop photographing Mahogany, and he seems certain he has some evidence the police might be interested in. No one else seems convinced of anything but his sanity slipping. At least, not for a while.

The Midnight Meat Train is a film that feels like it exists in the dark underbelly of some forgotten subway station, where long secrets hide and creepy things occur. Oh wait, it is! But seriously, the movie not only has that aesthetic, but it’s like you can smell the blood, and grime like it gets under your nails.

There’s a pretty fantastic and disturbing twist towards the end and plenty of guts, stylish visuals, and sharp writing to make this a horror/thriller that is an inventive ride. Bradley Cooper and Vinnie Jones are both excellent in their roles. You may feel like a shower after this one, but if you can stomach it, and wade through the atrocities, it’ll definitely conjure some images you’re unlikely to forget.

The Midnight Meat Train feels like a slow-burn mystery mixed with a psychological invite into hell, with body parts a plenty. It’s got some bones by the end too, and I don’t just mean the human ones.

Haunt-tober 22, Day 5: Five of My Favorite, Creative, Jump Scares

Posted on October 5, 2022August 11, 2023 by Kstrouse

Ah, the classic jump scare. When utilized correctly in the right moment of suspense, it can jolt a viewer out of their seat. However, it’s also become overused to the point where it actually detracts from the film. We want our scares to be earned, but if you have something pop out every five seconds, where’s the story, where’s the substance? It’s usually created through a symbiosis of camera and sound thrusting us into a feeling that startles and gets our heart racing. Timing is also, really, everything. So, here are some of my favorite and what I think to be some of the most memorable, jump scares:

If you haven’t seen the film I’d suggest scrolling on, wouldn’t want you to miss out on its intended scare :).

The Exorcist 3, Scissors scene

After watching this movie for the first time for my Blindspot podcast, there was one shot in particular that not only caused my stomach to leap, but also stuck with me as one of the highlights of The Exorcist 3. In a very fast shot we quickly see our perpetrator holding huge scissors walking up behind a nurse. The buildup is truly everything here as the camera doesn’t move and we watch the nurse’s station over like 40 seconds, people coming and going, doing rounds. Then, with a high shriek, this occurs and it is blood-curdling.

It Follows, Tall man

I felt I had to include at least one of the lovely ghostly jumps in the film. This one occurs when our lead’s friends arrive at the door and seemingly, nothing is behind her. Then, suddenly a very tall man walks swiftly behind her. The whole idea that someone doesn’t know something terrifying is inches from them is always alluring, but It Follows masters that.

Insidious, The Red Demon

It’s just a family chat, discussing their history and their own experiences with demons and astral travel (normal stuff) when… bam, the demon is right behind Patrick Wilson. It is one that’ll make you choke on your popcorn.

Signs, Birthday Video

One of my favorite parts of M. Night Shyamalan’s science fiction/horror films, is the clip of a birthday party on the news where an alien is witnessed. The shock and awe of that moment along with Joaquin Phoenix’s reaction, that’s epic, makes this seriously visceral. An alien in the middle of a party? Eeeeek. Jump! Run!

Sinister: Lawnmower Scene

For last year’s Spooktober I wrote about this film and its overall eerie nature, but there is one scene as Ethan Hawke‘s character watches one of the videos he’s found. We see a family through the window in the living room then it cuts to a lawnmower moving slowly over some grass at night. Until, suddenly, there’s a person on the ground before them. Not only do the visuals and sounds scare us, but Hawke jumps too.

This is tough to narrow down, but there are so many! Here are just *some* Honorable mentions: Jaws- several shark scenes, Psycho- shower scene, Basically all of The Night House, The Conjuring-Clap, The Sixth Sense- the ghost kids.

This is obviously just a drop in a large pool of film moments. What are some of your favorites?

Haunt-tober 22, Day 4: The Howling

Posted on October 4, 2022August 11, 2023 by Kstrouse

The Howling is known as one of the definitive werewolf films, and for good reason. Joe Dante’s film starring Dee Wallace as Karen White the newscaster who is thrust into a secretive world of Lycans is a mysterious ode to this fantastical subgenre. Is it my favorite? Maybe not, but that’s a tough point to pin.

After it is suggested that she retreat to a rural area for some R&R after a close encounter with a serial killer, things aren’t as rosy as one might hope. She and her husband Bill (Christopher Stone) go to this secluded seemingly serene locale, but soon discover there are insidious intentions, including some late-night howlings that don’t seem natural.

The Howling is fun yes, but not without its err. This quickly moving 91-minute picture is ample in its wolf-like terror. There’s very little respite in its dive into a lycanthropic group with a cult-like feel.

What stands out for me is the effects of 1981, further beyond some of its future counterparts. Some of the transformations and kill sequences are impressive for their time, and bloody gruesome. For then, the special effects are especially striking. Dee Wallace is also a queen for a reason, even though she’s not in every scene, she’s always on your mind, our North Star.

What also distinguishes The Howling is the media element. Not only does Karen become embroiled but her coworkers Terry Fisher (Belinda Balaski) and Bill Neill (Christopher Stone), investigate and come to her aid. Tonally, the movie jumps around a bit, making it an uneven identity but still a culturally imperative experience.

The Howling is a worthy, must-see addition to the werewolf mythology. This is a subgenre that still remains a lesser-known one, especially in comparison to let’s say, vampires. Mostly it’s because if you’re to stand out, you need something diverse and memorable. The time, the mood, and the narrative are key. Does this do it? Perhaps at times. In the pantheon of werewolf films, this may not be the best, but it’s one that shouldn’t be missed. Also, it’s got a terrific final shot that personally wins me over.

Well performed, with convincing effects for its time, The Howling isn’t the best werewolf feature, but it’s required viewing for any fan.

The Howling is currently streaming on Amazon Prime.

Haunt-tober 22, Day 3: The Mist

Posted on October 3, 2022August 11, 2023 by Kstrouse

Alright, beasties. It’s that time of year again. For this edition of Haunt-tober, I’m going to do a post a day but, like a great haul after trick or treating, I’m hoping to mix it up and deliver some surprises. There’ll be reviews, new or old, seen/unseen, TV or film. There may also be lists, audio, or video, depending on my wicked mood. I hope you’ll enjoy it and remember: stay weird.

Ah, The Mist. This is one of those middle-higher-tier Stephen King adaptations that occasionally seems to be overlooked. It’s a hell of a hook though, and with an amble of scares and discomforting creatures (and the people, oh the people) it’s one that I love.

David (Thomas Jane) is an artist living in a small coastal Maine town. After a hurricane knocks a tree into their home he heads into town with his young son Billy (Nathan Gamble) and neighbor with whom he has an estranged relationship with Brent (Andre Braugher) for supplies. Once inside the grocery store, a strange mist rolls into town, and with it, fear. Fear of what’s within.

When Dan (Jeffrey DeMunn) comes in yelling that something in the mist took someone, the paranoia, confusion, and uncertainty grow. The inhabitants of the store are terrified of the unknown, while some play it off as some sort of misunderstanding. However, when some witness a tentacle attacking in a back room, others are more convinced that this isn’t a natural, foggy, occurrence.

What makes The Mist so intriguing is the actions and responses of those in crisis. Most of the film is set in this enclosed grocery store with a variety of personalities, and people with their own ideas of what’s happening. Included is Mrs. Carmody (Marcia Gay Harden) whose religious prophecies bring many to her call. Others think it’s something to do with the military facility on the mountain.

David and many others, including Amanda (Laurie Holden) and Ollie (Toby Jones) are on the side of a careful, reluctant, and more reasonable belief that whatever it is, it is not good.

Common King collaborator/adapter Frank Darabont writes and directs, utilizing every opportunity to permeate the fear that lies within the unexplainable. As people become more anxious, the need for action is more prominent, and we get glimpses into what’s outside.

The creature effects and mounting tension make for a slick horror where sometimes, the unseen is the scariest of all. Marcia Gay Harden does an incredible job at ratcheting up the already monumental terror. And the trail of mayhem that ensues from words and the seed of doubt that spreads is equally menacing.

Be forewarned, even if you’ve read Stephen King’s story, this ending is different and it packs a hell of a punch. Very few movies have had such a devastating finality, so I feel it my duty to give you the heads up.

Overall, The Mist is a terrifying example of fantastical nightmares coming to life, and the human monsters that crisis can make of us. The acting is on point and the design is a spooky delight. The end will have you screaming.

The Mist is currently streaming on Netflix

Haunt-tober 22, Day 2: Train to Busan

Posted on October 2, 2022August 11, 2023 by Kstrouse

The train-zombie flick Train to Busan is acclaimed for good reason. While this is a sub-genre of horror that we’ve seen many times, this film is able to hit the high-octane thrills of any of its predecessors, while still maintaining style and inventiveness within zombie lore.

Yeon Sang-ho directs and writes this horror that amps up the energy with zombies of terrifying quickness, but also the closed precipice of a train, where hiding isn’t truly an option.

Businessman and father Seok Woo (Yoo Gong) is escorting his daughter Soo-an (Kim Su-an) to her mother who he recently separated from. Things start fast, and not long after they board the train do they realize something is amiss. Also on the train are soon-to-be father Sang Hwa (Ma Dong-seok) and his pregnant wife Sung-kyung (Jung Yu-mi). Nobody is expecting what is to come, and with the fight for survival also comes a show of one’s personality and selfless (and selfish) nature.

As attacks start mounting on the train, and reports start coming in outside that things are becoming worse. Many of the passengers are out for their own good, and others will soon become unexpected allies. Even with moments of brief security, as misguided as they may be, the tension continues in ample amounts. The zombies here don’t do well with darkness, so that means that tunnels are an apt time for survivors to inch by. But where can they really go? There are some gnarly moments and delightfully gory effects that make this train as terrifying as possible.

The performances are terrific, and there’s an emotional connection quickly to all of the leads. At first, Yoo Gong seems like a father who neglects his daughter, but soon becomes not only her guardian but someone you truly root for. Kim Su-an gives an empathetic and vulnerable performance beyond her years. The real showstopper is Ma Dong-seok who steals every scene he is in.

Yeon Sang-ho concocts something here that is uniquely gripping and emotional. By its finale, Train to Busan becomes an entry into the zombie entourage that is compelling and full of nonstop action sure to bring your blood pressure up.

It’s the real reanimated deal. Don’t rest, keep one eye open and steadfast on those around you. Train to Busan is a rush of -zombies seeking- blood to the head.

Train to Busan is currently streaming on AMC+

Haunt-tober 22, Day 1: Hocus Pocus 1 & 2

Posted on October 1, 2022August 11, 2023 by Kstrouse

Yesterday we received a sequel to Hocus Pocus, the family-friendly Halloween classic. This was a film that I saw young, of course, and while there’s really nothing scary about this movie (except for maybe getting your brand new kicks stolen by bullies) I figured I’d start with a movie that is often a staple for any fall viewings. Also, I’m hoping we can get creepier as the month goes on and we grow closer to All Hallow’s Eve. I saw the original when I was six, and now we are finally getting a sequel. How will it land? Let’s see…

Hocus Pocus (Kenny Ortega)

Let’s be honest here. Hocus Pocus is no sweet treat to cinema. It’s silly, it’s childish, but, it’s also one of those films that seems to have grown in fandom since its release, and has become more beloved with each new Halloween season. Personally, I wanted to just hang out with a talking cat (yes, I also loved Sabrina as a child) but I also felt charmed by the humor that didn’t take itself too seriously. Also, the first is, well, so 90s.

A couple of years ago I also visited Salem and saw some of the filming locations, which is a thing I love to do anywhere I travel, and it reminded me of the ambiance of the area and the season, and Hocus Pocus is most definitely an atmosphere. Fall has arrived!

For those who haven’t seen here’s the lowdown:

It’s Halloween, 1693. Three sisters known as the Sanderson Sisters, evil witches who yearn to trick and consume the energy of children, are witnessed taking the sister of one Thackery Binx. Winifred (Bette Midler), Sarah (Sarah Jessica Parker), and Mary (Kathy Najimy) in turn change Thackery into an immortal cat and are then hanged. Before they perish they make a curse that if a virgin lights the black flame during a full moon on Hallow’s Eve, they will be brought back.

Enter the virgin. Max Dennison (Omri Katz) has just moved to town and is forced to take his sister Dani (Thora Birch) out trick or treating. Along with his new crush Allison (Vinessa Shaw) the three visit the old Sanderson house, now a museum, and because nothing “bad” ever happens from lighting a candle, Max, a nonbeliever, brings forth the witches. From there it’s up to them to stop the evil they’ve unleashed before the children of Salem fall victim to it.

Hocus Pocus has a lot of scenes and jokes that fall a little flat, feel a little outdated, or are just truly appreciated by the young at heart. Luckily, the delightful innocence and sense of fun that the cast has, and the inevitable well-intentioned Halloween excitement comes through. Some children may be scared by elements, (such as sucking the life out of kids) so that’s not to be disregarded. However, for me, I found The Witches to be the superior, and scarier, of the time period.

As with any movie that you saw when you were young and then see later with your thinking, analytical hat on, it can sometimes be askew. I have no preconceived ideas that Hocus Pocus is high quality and doesn’t have some moments that haven’t aged well, but as a freeze frame of early 90s seasonal viewing, there’s the kid inside that is reminded of the joy of Halloween, and of spooky legends. And that kid, mixed with the adult one that is still very much a lover of the oddities of life and film, holds a fondness for its kooky, campy vibe.

Hocus Pocus 2 (Anne Fletcher)

As with any sequel that has a cult following Hocus Pocus 2 leans heavily into the nostalgia and aims to work its magic mostly on what’s already been previously cast.

After a quick intro to the sister’s childhood, including a run-in with Hannah Waddingham (seriously underused here), we fast forward. It’s modern Hallow’s eve, and Salem is -of course- in full spirit, including a lesson on the Sanderson sisters by store owner Gilbert (Sam Richardson) where their magic spell book is locked up.

On her 16th birthday, Becca (Whitney Peak) and her friend Izzy (Belissa Escobedo) light a candle, bringing forth, once again, the sisters.

It’s always funny when someone out of time steps into our world and is immersed in things that, without prior knowledge, seem quite strange. An early gag has the sisters consuming face creams thinking they are potions of children’s souls. This and many other jokes garner a “heh.” There are a lot of similarities to the first including musical numbers, teens trying to save the town, and even Billy Butcherson (Doug Jones). Can we stop for a second and praise Doug Jones? Yes, he rocks.

Anyway, after they get the book back the sisters force Gilbert to help him and curse him. From there he works with Billy to gather the materials they need for their spell.

There are a lot of easter eggs sure to make fans smile, and there are plenty of comical commonalities like the vacuum cleaner in replace of a broom for Mary, except now it’s Roombas. One of the main differences in this sequel is that one of the teenage girls is herself a witch, which adds an interesting dynamic. I wish they leaned into that story a bit more instead of focusing on repeating history.

The self-aware humor is more evident here, and the stakes, somehow, feel less than in the original (which already felt slim). There are some fun easter eggs, and I love seeing that it was shot in Salem again. Also, do these women ever age? However, I was a little let down by the impact of the sequel in comparison to the first. Obviously the first of a film series is always going to have the discovery factor, but this is one of those times where that really made a difference. Also, one spoiler I will say to my chagrin, no talking cat. 😦

I know that there are many huge fans out there that were calling for a remake. I understand a lot of people will love this and think it is a great follow-up. For me, it’s one of those moments where I wonder if we needed it, but also, how much can we really expect? It wasn’t a bore, and there are things I liked, but mostly I didn’t feel a tingly witchy moment. Yes, it gave me a nostalgic wave, but it didn’t suffice that itch as much as I would have hoped.

Will this film have the love the first does in nearly 30 years? Maybe not, but only time will tell. Either way, I’d recommend it to any fan of Hocus Pocus, just don’t expect too much magic.

Both films are available for streaming on Disney+

Author: Kstrouse