Don't Breathe 2- Movie Review

Just like the first iteration from 2016, this film is so much better than the trailer suggests. Avatar's Stephen Lang as an old, blind Navy Seal needs to survive just another home invasion, and this time around he also has to save his young daughter. But just like in the first one, about mid-movie the story takes an unexpected 90 degree turn and becomes something else entirely. This movie was marketed as a horror but it's definitely more of an action/thriller flick. As such, it does a great job producing more than enough suspense to keep you on the edge of your seat. For those critics who are too caught up with the fact that Norman is not redeemable based on his actions in the first movie and are arguing that this film doesn't justify its existence, please just get over yourselves for a minute and listen up. This film is in no way trying to absolve Norman of his sins, or indicate that he's a good guy, redeemed, a hero, or even an anti-hero. We all know that Norman is a terrible man, and just because he also recognizes this now does not make him good. The only character that shows affinity toward him is Phoenix, and that's because it's the only reality she understands. She is not privy to his past, and even so has a desire to leave him for a better life. Also, for anyone who believes any amount of redemption is not remotely possible, did you also hate American History X? If so, maybe it's time to set your shiny moral compass aside, and realize there are OBJECTIVE ways to review movies too. 

Now, aside from the fact that I thoroughly enjoyed this film, if I look at things objectively, here are some observations: Story line is unique but complimentary to the first film. Plenty of twists and turns that were unexpected. Despite the looming presence of Norman, overall this is a story about Phoenix's experience navigating a world full of oppression, and selfish, terrible people. Despite some cheesy lines, the acting was intense, solid, and believable. Props to Madelyn Grace for a tour de force breakout performance. Cinematography was stellar, and added so much suspense to the story. The 6 minute long shot of Phoenix evading bad guys in the beginning was a definite highlight. At times the picture was too dark, but it also played well into the suspense. Pacing started out slow, but worked effectively to build suspense. You know things are going to get intense, and when they finally do it's a fun ride. This is an action/thriller, but surprisingly has some elements of drama and humor as well. Overall, this was a solid directorial debut from Rodo Sayagues, and anyone who says it sucked because Fede Alvarez didn't direct doesn't understand the dynamic of this duo. They worked closely together as a creative team on both films, and in the immortal words of Fede, "I make films to piss you off." Based on some of the troll-ish critic reviews out there, looks like they succeeded. Well done guys, great film!