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Lamberto Bava’s DEMONS 2 is a worthy successor to its chaotic predecessor. While it may not quite reach the same heights of frenzied mayhem, it’s a satisfyingly gory and entertaining horror sequel that stands on its own merits.
The film shifts the setting from a movie theater to a high-rise apartment building, but the core concept remains the same: a mysterious force turns unsuspecting individuals into demonic creatures. This time, it’s a televised horror movie that acts as the catalyst for the outbreak. Bava's direction is once again confident, building tension effectively before unleashing waves of demonic carnage.
DEMONS 2 retains the first film’s penchant for over-the-top violence and practical effects. The creature designs are grotesque and imaginative, and the gore is plentiful. While the film may not be as visually striking as its predecessor, it compensates with a more claustrophobic atmosphere, as the survivors are trapped within the confines of the high-rise.
The performances are generally solid, with the cast delivering the necessary levels of terror and disbelief. While the characters are archetypes rather than fully developed individuals, they serve their purpose in driving the narrative forward.
One of the film's strengths is its ability to balance horror with moments of dark humor. The absurdity of the situation, combined with the characters’ reactions, often leads to unintentionally funny scenes. This juxtaposition of tones adds a layer of complexity to the film, preventing it from becoming a purely mindless gorefest.
While DEMONS 2 doesn’t quite capture the same lightning-in-a-bottle energy of the original, it’s a commendable effort that delivers on the promise of its predecessor. It’s a film that embraces its own absurdity and delivers a satisfyingly gruesome experience. For fans of the first film, and horror enthusiasts in general, Demons 2 is a must-see.
Ultimately, DEMONS 2 is a solid horror sequel that successfully expands upon the world established in the first film. It’s a film that revels in its own excesses, offering a thrilling and often humorous ride through a nightmarish apartment building.
The Synapse release of DEMONS 2 also boasts an impressive array of special features. Fans will delight in the new audio commentary by film critic Travis Crawford, who offers insightful observations on the film’s strengths and weaknesses. Several interviews delve into the film’s creation, with Sergio Stivaletti discussing the challenges and triumphs of creating the film’s monstrous makeup effects, and composer Simon Boswell providing insight into the film’s haunting score.
For those interested in the broader context of Italian horror, Luigi Cozzi offers a fascinating look at the genre’s history, while Federico Zampaglione explores the film's enduring influence. Additionally, the inclusion of a visual essay by Alexandra Heller-Nicholas on the spatial and technological elements of both Demons films adds a fresh perspective to the package. With this wealth of supplementary material, the Demons 2 4K UHD/Blu-ray release is a must-have for any serious horror fan.
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