As good, if not, better than its predecessor

Rating: 7/10 (11 April 2011)

*** out of (****)
Just a year later, and the gang's back. Director Craven and screenwriter Williamson are back for a second round. And this time, it's with good intentions. Necessary? I perhaps not, but effective? Certainly. The body count's increasing, and the games are back and better than ever.
What separates "Scream 2" from the other lackluster sequels is how true it stays to its source material, while bringing something new to the table. In my opinion, while "Scream" was unpredictable, this film is definitely more surprising in terms of the whodunit premise. There are tons of twists and turns that kept me on the edge of my seat.
Not to mention the performances are still strong. The characters have matured and are evolving in their roles, which is always welcome. The script... what can I say? The one liners pack the same hard punch, and the lines are delivered greatly. As for the suspense, there's definitely more where that came from. "Scream 2" doesn't skimp on the goods.
Also, remember the iconic 12-minute opening in "Scream". Yeah well, "Scream 2"'s is just as great. Without spoiling too much, the setting's at a movie theatre, and boy does it not disappoint.
Anything else? While this is one neat production, I thought the film was bloodier, but not gorier. "Scream", in terms of deaths, is stronger, whereas "Scream 2" consists of mostly just stabs and ounces of that red stuff.
"Scream 2" is another home run for Craven. The film might closely resemblance "Scream" (maybe a little TOO closely), but it offers just a little something special for the beloved fans. "Scream 2" is as good, if not, better than its predecessor.