Paranormal Activity 2

Release Date: Oct 22, 2010

Runtime: 1 hr. 31 min. 

Director: Tod "Kip" Williams 

Cast: Katie Featherston, Micah Sloat, Sprague Grayden.

Marketed as the most anticipated horror flick of the year, “Paranormal Activity 2” justifies the thrills but falters like many unwarranted sequels. As the film opens up on familiar home video footage, the Hollywood influence is visibly apparent through enhanced recordings and frequent jump cuts. The low-budget, personal feel that made the first film so successful is downgraded to hi-tech security cameras and seemingly rehearsed narrations. But in spite of this, the dreary uncertainty continues to linger in the hushed silences that come with every nighttime scene. While the subtleties still remain, the film opts for more scare tactics the second time around. From creaky doors to gravity-defying levitations, there’s enough of the fright factor that’ll keep fans satisfied, if not for the extended storyline. Serving as a prequel, “Paranormal Activity 2” further expands on Katie’s childhood and how she becomes the unfortunate victim of these supernatural occurrences. Though clever as it may sound, another sequel seems inevitable for what may become the next “Saw” franchise, and that’s not a good thing. So enjoy it while you can. And avoid any basements.

Rating: 3½ stars