Paranormal Activity 2: Same Tactics, More Scares

This October Paranormal Activity 2 hit theaters bringing audiences the sequel to 2009′s biggest horror movie. Riding off the success of the original, Paranormal Activity 2 offers viewers “more of the same” with the replication of initial film’s style. Depending on whether you loved or hated the first movie, your likely response for the sequel will be more or less the same.

What’s The Story and What’s Changed?

Paranormal Activity 2 is both a prequel and a sequel to the events of the original movie as the time line of both movies overlap. In PA2 viewers follow the story of Katie’s sister, Kristi Rey and her family as they slowly experience the increasing paranormal activity that takes place throughout the house. Unlike the original movie’s one camera setup, PA2 is shot using multiple cameras. After returning home and finding the entire house trashed, Dan Rey, Kristi’s husband, decides to have surveillance cameras set up throughout the house. With the cameras’ setup, there are no blind spots allowing for an optimal spook experience. The family’s hand-held cameras also add to the addition of cameras.

Story Spoilers:

Audiences get a look into why both Kristi and Katie have been haunted by the demon. It turns out their great-grandmother made a deal with a demon to get rich quick, but in exchange she must give up the first male child born to her family. Nearly a century later, Hunter, the first born male in the family’s bloodline, is born to Kristi and the demon is back to collect. End of Spoilers

Is It Scary?

As the movie progresses, the violent nature of the demon’s behavior increases just as it did in the original tale. This brings up the age old question for any horror movie. Is it scary? The answer to this really comes down to a few factors. If the first movie scared you, then the sequel will definitely amplify your reaction. Were you bored out of your mind and laughing throughout the first? You probably will be doing the same come the second movie.

What was my reaction to the scary scenes?

Tension grew within me when the rumbling started to occur. You know, the ominous “Oh Shit! Something’s about to happen” sound. Some scary scenes made me laugh, while others made me jump in my chair. I’ll say this much, I’m never sitting in the kitchen home alone ever again.

What I Didn’t Like

While the characters are a lot more likable this time around, they are still a bunch of idiots. The dad especially. How blind can you be when you have proof staring you right in your face?

The crowd. I have no idea why everyone who goes to see any horror movie completely loses function of their speech. I don’t want your damn commentary and I’m pretty sure no one else wants to hear it either. I understand laughing, screaming, and freaking out at a scene. That is fine, but do us all a favor and be quiet. A movie like Paranormal Activity 2 is very atmospheric and it only takes one loud mouth to ruin the experience. Best bet, go really late at night when most kids aren’t around. They seem to be the most common repeat offenders when it comes to talking in movies.

Final Verdict

I enjoyed Paranormal Activity 2 for its horror and suspense. While it didn’t scare me outright, it did provide a fun evening of shock and suspense at the theater. It is definitely above par for a horror movie. Also I do recommend watching the original to get a better understanding of the movie.

For those that loved the first movie – Watch.

For those that hated the first movie – Avoid.

For those that haven’t seen the first, but looking for a fun watch – Watch with friends who are easily scared.