Reviews

I'm seeing a lot of negative reviews here and, while it has its flaws, this movie certainly doesn't deserve as little as 1 star. Firstly, just as with the original, the music is stellar. It's a cleanly and interestingly shot film with a lot of movement and atmosphere. The characters are endearing, if a little under-explored.

That's the main shortcoming in my opinion. This movie could've afforded another 30 minutes or more to tie up all its loose ends and incomplete character arcs. There's this unshakeable feeling that something has been cut out -- maybe some more flashbacks, or, better yet, a pay off for said flashbacks -- and that you're missing a few pieces of the puzzle. The last quarter feels like a speed-run attempt to produce a compelling, return-to-roots horror ending, but only winds up rushing clumsily to the credits.

Honestly, I'd found myself invested in our lead until he disappeared from the movie abruptly, and by the time I'd re-adjusted to investing in his partner the movie had essentially ended. She seemed like an interesting character to follow so the hasty ending didn't do her justice.

However, I did enjoy the commentary, and the film does feel like a natural extension of / revival of the original. The comments complaining that it's 'political' as opposed to horrific aren't entirely wrong, but the concepts are translated potently and have the exact outcome that any good horror movie should: discomfort, paranoia, and distress. Not to mention how good the school bathroom kills were!

Was I scared? Maybe not. But was I disturbed, and set on edge by this story? Absolutely. It's got me thinking, and the soundtrack on repeat is going to keep me thinking!

It's an imperfect movie with some meat on its bones -- enough to warrant a watch, and some time spent considering the message afterwards.

I enjoyed most of this movie. It was silly and ticked most of the boxes of a good slasher. However, every reveal falls flat in my opinion, and the ending can only be described as painful.