Don’t Breath 2 Non-Spoiler Review
Ever since the beginning year of 2020, we’ve seen theaters nearly go extinct. With studios almost making it a demand in adding newly released films on streaming services, the moviegoing experience as a whole just hasn’t been the same. Now entering the summer of 2021, we can fairly say that there has indeed been a change & comeback from amongst the masses. In showcasing a wide variety of stories. All headlined with a goal of adding in more diversity than what’s come in the past. Delivering on the exact escape needed from the chaos we’ve seen tackled in this global pandemic.
One of the latest & best titles to come of this season so far, has been none other than the long-awaited sequel Don’t Breathe 2. Many fans have been eager for a return to this world since the sleeper hit of its predecessor. Joining our returning lead Stephen Lang, is a cast of new faces including the names of Brendan Sexton III, Madelyn Grace, Stephanie Arcila, & Adam Young. This time directed by first-timer Rodo Sayagues. While produced & co-written by original director Fede Alvarez.
Taking place years after the tragic events of Part 1, the villainous blind veteran steps up from the shadows once more, this time entering a gang war protecting the life of a young orphan from a group of monstrous thugs who’s intentions are far from pure. Now forced into the fight of his life, Norman Nordstrom must go beyond what’s left of his own morality becoming the mentor, & father figure needed at time where hope itself has been ripped away.
Speaking on the directing style done by artist Rodo Sayagues, one can argue it is nearly identical to what we’ve seen from past director Fede Alvarez. Not much of a difference overall, & I’d say that plays out as a good call. Standing as a true successor to the amazing work given to us by the previous cast & crew. As a newcomer, Sayagues carefully makes a wonderful introduction in his directoral debut giving us much more of a deeper story to harbor on this time around. Not once having the tone feel at all night & day to what’s come before. Respecting the world that’s already been set. While adding in enough needed flare to an already well-made thriller.
The father-daughter relationship by both Nordstrom & Phoenix displayed throughout this film powerfully plays off as both the heart and soul to what makes this dark tale feel so real underneath. Despite the level of brutality that unfolds later on within the story. The major evolution that I believe is clearly shown within the character Nordstrom, is his dramatic change of focus. No longer holding onto an obsession of pure revenge, & instead making an attempt in becoming a much needed savior to a child innocent to the darkness ahead.
Entering this follow-up, are some of the most coldest & brutal antagonists I’ve seen displayed since James DeMonaco’s The Purge, Marcus Dustan’s The Collector, & of course David Gordon Green’s incredible Halloween (2018). Each of them more lethal, & heartless than that of the younger trio from the previous incarnation. Showcasing not an ounce of humanity. Now, it is intimidating to watch given the intensity we see take part throughout, & from that we’re also shown a much deeper viewpoint into the hardships the group has & continues to face due the circumstances revolving young orphan Phoenix. The characters themselves do at times feel a bit played out. Becoming more or less predictable by the climax, but thanks to Sayagues & Alvarez, enough is done in giving audiences a few twists & turns that in the end truly makes for a thrilling experience nonetheless.
Now for my final thoughts, I’ll go as far into stating that while Don’t Breathe 2 does not disappoint in the slightest. It doesn’t exactly level itself on par with the original either, but regardless the film does indeed bring in more of an understanding to the very mindset of who Nordstrom wants to be by the end. Allowing this feature to stand on its own right as truthfully one of this summer’s best yet!
GRADE : B
DISCLAIMER:
NONE OF THE IMAGES USED IN THIS ARTICLE ARE OWNED BY WRITER OR WEBSITE!