THE PLOT THUS FAR
The haunted Lambert family seeks to uncover the mysterious childhood secret that has left them dangerously connected to the spirit world.
[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2BcZjb0px34]
WHAT WE THOUGHT
“Insidious: Chapter 2″ wants to answers everyone’s questions. The Lambert family is back and they’re trying to figure out how they got involved with the spirits of the first movie. There’s a lot of talking head action and Barbara Hershey sleepwalks through her role. What caught my interest was the fact that the creative team seems to be toying with the idea of alternate realities. But, this is quickly becoming a horror serial. As such, I find that the audience’s interest in keeping up with these character is being overestimated.
The problem with horror sequels can be found in its structure. Most recycle the same haunted environment, supernatural element or slasher; then just change the skin of the needed enemy. “Insidious” wants to unfold as a modern work of Gothic literature. There’s a great deal of world-building, plus we’re supposed to want to discover the history of the family we meet. But, are we watching the real history? That is what leads to the great problem with this film.
The scares are cool and it holds one’s attention. However, the audience must be able to invest in characters that are in harm’s way. If not, then they are no different than faceless victims that want to bone at Camp Crystal Lake. Will the Lamberts fall victim to “The Further”? What is the Further other than some supernatural dimension? Can we get over precocious kids knowing more than adults in horror movies? If it’s not redrum fingers or kids talking to broadcast snow on TV; they’re trying to find new ways to family up horror. It’s getting old and it’s only serving to blur the line between the new fake-outs at PG-13 and the carnage that the R demands.
The DVD comes with a behind the scenes featurette and a look at the ghostly transformation. The big glowing sign at the bottom of the box tells you that the Blu-Ray has more special features. It’s funny to see Sony tout Blu-Ray in a time when they’re giving away their bigger older titles to boutique labels to gouge consumers. But, I digress. The A/V Quality is top notch with a strong Dolby 5.1 track and a clean transfer. Still, the Blu-Ray is bound to be a better presentation. I’d recommend a purchase to fans.
RELEASE DATE: 12/24/2013