Halloween Kills, directed by David Gordon Green, is the highly anticipated sequel to the 2018 film Halloween and the 12th installment in the Halloween franchise. The movie picks up immediately after the events of the previous film, with Laurie Strode (Jamie Lee Curtis) and her family, along with the entire town of Haddonfield, in pursuit of the infamous serial killer Michael Myers.
One of the strengths of Halloween Kills is its commitment to paying homage to the original 1978 film. The movie successfully captures the essence of the original, with its eerie atmosphere, suspenseful sequences, and the iconic score by John Carpenter. Fans of the franchise will appreciate the nods to the original film, as well as the return of several characters from the original cast.
The performances in Halloween Kills are commendable, particularly Jamie Lee Curtis as Laurie Strode. Curtis brings a depth and vulnerability to her character, showcasing the trauma and determination that Laurie has endured for decades. The supporting cast, including Judy Greer as Laurie’s daughter Karen and Andi Matichak as Laurie’s granddaughter Allyson, also deliver solid performances, adding emotional weight to the story.
The film’s pacing is relentless, with intense and brutal sequences that keep the audience on the edge of their seats. The kills are gruesome and creative, satisfying fans of the slasher genre. However, some viewers may find the violence excessive, as the movie leans heavily into gore and brutality.
Where Halloween Kills falls short is in its narrative structure. The film attempts to explore the impact of Michael Myers on the town of Haddonfield, with a focus on mob mentality and the consequences of vigilantism. While these themes are intriguing, they are not fully developed, resulting in a disjointed and messy storyline. The movie introduces several new characters and subplots that ultimately feel unnecessary and detract from the main narrative.
Additionally, the film suffers from poor character development. Many of the characters, both new and returning, are underutilized and lack depth. This makes it difficult for the audience to fully invest in their fates, diminishing the emotional impact of the story.
Despite its flaws, Halloween Kills is an entertaining and thrilling addition to the Halloween franchise. It successfully captures the essence of the original film and delivers on the slasher genre’s expectations. Fans of the franchise will appreciate the callbacks and the continuation of the story, while newcomers may find themselves lost in the convoluted narrative. Overall, Halloween Kills is a solid entry in the series, setting the stage for the final installment, Halloween Ends.
