"Scream 2" overcomes some obstacles to end up a respectable sequel and counterpart.

Rating: 7/10 (19 June 2009)

Wes Craven's "Scream" was such a smashing success that a sequel was quickly rushed into production, and in 1997, "Scream 2" was born. Re-uniting Craven and screenwriter Kevin Williamson, the film also saw the return of its surviving stars as well as the now-iconic Ghostface killer, who, for obvious reasons, carries an alternate identity than that of the killer(s) in the first film. Stalking Sidney and her friends at college, the film centers around the damaged character and the paranoia that continues to cripple her life. As Deputy Dewey puts it: "You probably already know him...or her...or them. They're probably already in your life. They get off on that."
The film can't help but feel redundant when compared to its predecessor, especially when it comes to its surprise finish. That's not to say the film is a complete re-hash though. Thankfully, it still puts your expectations through the loops and keeps you on the edge of your seat with some nail-biting suspense and gruesome blood-shed. In fact, when you compare it to other like-minded films of the time (see: "Scream" rip-offs), it's downright nasty and fun at the same time! The college campus setting also helps change things up a bit, and with so many horror sequels ripe for the picking, "Scream 2" is to horror sequels what "Scream" was to horror movies in general. It ups the ante, raises your expectations and (for the most part) meets them.
The direction by Craven seems a little more confident this go-round, which is unfortunate since Williamson's script gives its characters clunky and awkward dialogue to spit, which severely drags down the film. The first one was whip-smart, but this one's a little milder. The tone of the flick and the overall plot is just-right; it's in the little things that bog the flick down. Even still, its flaws are minor, and it's got another great, talented cast, some of whom meet unfortunate and grisly demises. Keep an eye out for wacky Aunt Jackie from "Roseanne" herself, Laurie Metcalf, in a seemingly minor but memorable role.