Back in September, Universal Pictures decided to show the new entry in the 'Halloween' series to a lucky audience. The film ever since has received some very high praise and riding a big wave of anticipation until tonight's early screenings. Has all the hype been worthwhile? Has Michael Myers and Laurie Strode finally been given the film they deserve? Taking place 40 years after the events of the original film, we see how a traumatic event such as the 1978 massacre can affect someone, with both sides represented in full. Laurie Strode (Jamie Lee Curtis) has been living a sheltered life filled with sadness, paranoia, and fear while waiting for Michael Myer's inevitable escape and his vengeance on the one who got away. The film deals with themes of PTSD and abuse towards women and the outcome of the assault, all of which are current hot button issues and what will keep this 'Halloween' entry relevant for today's audience. We also see the impact both Myers and Laurie has had on those closest to her, namely her daughter Karen (Judy Greer) and granddaughter Allison (Andi Matichak) both good and bad and in the end the film is about these women becoming family and dealing with past demons.
For those who are thinking that may be a bit too forced or political in some way, I can see why but make no mistake here: this is a true 'Halloween' film and delivers on what we've come to expect while also giving us something new, something sequels tend to have trouble with. And really this is where the film is the most flawed as the first and second act play out pretty much like any other slasher and for some may seem rather out of place once that third act kicks in. 'Halloween' can sometimes suffer from tone whiplash due to some typical horror pacing and tropes but to give the film credit, they are well shot and sometimes funny. And the humor is a topic I've not heard many talk about. The film is really funny, in a way that feels natural and at the right time. A particular scene involving a child character is a big highlight and this kid needs to be in more movies. He's a funny little guy. We also get some fun moments from the many callbacks to the '78 original, including a moment during the climax that had the audience laughing out loud.
I love these callbacks (particularly the opening credit sequence that I won't spoil here) but understandably there are a few too many. Most are subtle and usually in the background somewhere, but other times certain scenes will be an almost shot for shot of the original which can be considered lazy for many reasons. I don't think this film uses them enough to warrant heavy criticism, but it is a little too much at times. What I found the most surprising is that our younger cast of teen characters are all pretty likeable and don't go over the top with their performances. Andi Matichak is really good as Allison and I'd like to see her take up the mantle if any future sequels are in place. Her friends are funny and well written as well, and we feel actual pity for them when they pass on. The worst aspects of our cast I would have to say is the inclusion of a Dr. Loomis replacement. He feels out of place, as if they needed a Loomis character but then halfway through decided to change his personality and make him a pseudo-antagonist towards the finale.
Nick Castle & James Jude Courtney are excellent as Myers, and they portray him in a much more aggressive and brutal manner. Without ever seeing his face, you can feel that pure rage in how he attacks and kills his victims. This one pulls no punches with death scenes either, being one of the nastier entries for gore effects. Fans will love a few callbacks as well as the now infamous tracking shot as Myers goes from house to house in one continuous take, butchering all who inhabit them. It's an impressive scene to be sure and just me or others speaking about it won't do it justice. I also would like to give a quick mention of the film's score, once again provided by John Carpenter but this time accompanied by his son Cody, and Daniel Davies. As soon as the score plays, you instantly know its classic Carpenter. As of this review, I have yet to fully listen to the score on its own but seeing it with the film I say its perfect and another great example of just how many talents Carpenter has.
Director David Gordon Green & writer Danny McBride have given us the best 'Halloween' sequel in years, and possibly the best sequel of the franchise. Jamie Lee Curtis knocks it out of the park with her final performance as Laurie, and fans will appreciate the many callbacks along with the newly added scenes of humor and horror. I don't think many going in would think 'Halloween 2018' would be so damned good but they will not be disappointed and neither will you. Despite some issues I had with the first half of the film, that finale makes up for it in spades. If you see one film this season, let it be 'Halloween'.
4.5/5
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